Top 5 tips for jewellery cleaning
The best way to keep silver jewellery free of tarnish is to wear it, but if your favourite jewellery has seen better days you can do something about it — besides selling it on Gumtree.
Remember: using chemicals or other harsh and abrasive cleaners is not recommended for soft stones like opals and pearls. Use soap and water only and if you need to use a brush to clean crevices of a setting use a new soft-bristled toothbrush.
Diamonds
Soak diamond jewellery in a solution of 1 cup warm water and ¼ cup ammonia for about 15 minutes, then use a soft-bristled toothbrush to scrub away any remaining grime, especially in the crevices of the setting and underneath the diamond.
Gold and gemstones
Cleaning your gold and gemstone jewellery couldn’t be easier with white vinegar. Simply drop the jewellery into a jar of vinegar and let sit for 10 to 15 minutes, agitating occasionally. Remove and scrub with a new soft-bristled toothbrush, if necessary.
Silver
Cut a piece of aluminium foil to roughly cover the bottom of a small bowl. Heat a cup of water to almost boiling and pour into bowl. Place 1 tablespoon each of salt, baking soda, and dishwashing liquid into the bowl. Place silver jewellery on top of foil and let it sit for 5 to 10 mins. Rinse jewellery in cool water and dry completely with a soft cloth. Discard solution after use.
Pearls and turquoise (& other soft porous materials)
For soft and porous materials like pearls and turquoise, soap and water is enough to get them looking their best. Clean your string of pearls by dipping them quickly in a solution of 2 cups warm water and a few drops of mild detergent (Softly or dishwashing liquid). Wipe each pearl with a soft, dry cotton cloth and lay flat to dry. (Pearls actually stay polished from frequent wear, so don’t be afraid to accessorize!)
Turquoise doesn’t even need soap to come clean. Simply dip a soft-bristled toothbrush into warm water and scrub the stone clean. Dry with a clean cloth, then let air-dry for several hours before storing.
Commercial jewellery cleaners
There are a range of dips and soft creamy cleaners that you can purchase which are quick and convenient. Or you can buy a silver & jewel cloth and give your jewellery a quick rub over before wearing.
