Jewelries are decorative items that are worn and used for adornment by humans. It could be a ring, an earring, a necklace, pendants, bracelets and so on which are worn around the neck, fingers, wrist, or ankles. They are made of different materials; beads, precious stones, wood, shells, plastic as well as metals.
The value of jewelry is based on the material it is made from. Diamonds are the most valuable as well as the most expensive. Gold in its own right is one of the most valuable and expensive metal to use for jewelry. It is measured in a variety of categories typically called carats. This can range from 9 to 24 carats. The higher a carat, the more valuable and expensive it is. You can learn more about this by reading through this article.
Depending on the material with which jewelry is made, after a while, it may begin to show signs of aging or tarnishing. It could also have been scratched and would have attracted some dirt.
The beauty of jewelries though is that tarnishing is temporary rather than permanent. By applying proper cleaning techniques, you can restore your precious item to its original glory.
To clean your jewelry, you can either take it to a professional cleaner or do it by yourself using some common home ingredients or materials. The challenge of professional cleaning is the availability of and ease of access to a qualified jeweler.
Well, whatever the case, cleaning it yourself is not bad. It also costs you next to nothing. It may not be as perfect a job as a jeweler will do but it most definitely improves the look of your ornament. However, keep in mind that while you may be able to easily clean some, you may need the expert attention of professionals for others.
Products for Cleaning Your Jewelry
Jewelry pieces made with gold and silver can easily be cleaned at home but materials such as platinum may sustain scratches if you are not careful. Those made with precious metals are also quite safe to clean by yourself. Some of the best jewelry cleaning tips include using the products below:
Wipes and Polishes
There are commercial jewelry cleaner products; wipes and polishes that you can buy off the shelf and use for your cleaning. These are especially good for silver pieces.
For a more thorough cleaning especially for pieces that include gemstones, you will need a high-tech solution. This is because other home cleaning methods help you achieve only basic cleaning and hidden dirt may not be easily dislodged. To be able to reach these hidden places, you need an ultrasonic cleaner. These cleaners work well to remove dirt from the most hidden places where brushes and wipes cannot reach.
Ultrasonic cleaners are also not expensive. They can be used over and over as well as for other cleaning purposes such as cleaning eyeglasses and machine components.
Toothpaste
Toothpaste is an excellent abrasive. It is good for removing dirt from jewelry that is not made from gold or silver. It works similarly to sandpaper and this is why it may not be good to use for gold or silver as it can grind away parts of these pieces. You can use the toothpaste alongside a toothbrush and gently work it over your piece. It works well for crystalline gemstones.
Use Soap and Water
Soap and water never go out of fashion. It is a classic mixture that has been used for ages when it comes to cleaning things. So also, it is applicable for use, as well as effective in cleaning your ornaments.
To use this, you can put liquid soap in water. Mix this and place your jewelry in it for a couple of minutes. You can then use a soft brush or clean cloth to remove any tough dirt. When doing this, ensure to put tiny pieces in a strainer so they do not get missing. Now, remove from the soap and water solution, rinse with clean water and wipe dry with a clean cloth.
Ensure that the jewelry is dry before putting it away. Soap and water is good for removing stains, spots and grime. It can be used for cleaning gold and platinum. Soap can also be used for opals and pearls but be careful not to damage it with a brush. Rather than use a brush on pearls, simply remove them from the soap solution, rinse and dry.
Baking Soda
Baking soda gives a chemical reaction when it is mixed in water. This results in bubbles that help to clean dirt or grime buildup. It is as simple as placing your jewelry in a bowl, cover it with water and then add baking soda. After a few minutes of soaking, remove the piece and wipe clean with a cloth. Again, keep in mind that the jewelry must be dry before putting it away.
You can also mix 3 parts of baking soda into one part of water so that it forms a paste. Wet your jewelry and then, apply the paste using a lint-free cloth. Use the cloth to work the paste into the piece cleaning the crevices all the while turning the cloth as it removes the tarnish. Rinse with water and dry.
Another way to use baking Soda is by soaking your jewelry in a baking soda and hot water mixture. Put this in a bowl lined with aluminum foil. By a process of ion exchange, the tarnish is transferred from the piece to the water. No need to scrub. Remove the jewelry from the solution and wipe with a clean, lint-free cloth.
A word of caution; this is suited for silver, gold and diamond. Do not use baking soda for soft gemstones and pearls.
To learn more, you can check out this comprehensive guide on jewelry cleaning and storage here: https://www.today.com/style/how-clean-your-sterling-silver-gold-jewelry-home-t128503.
Conclusion
Jewelries are precious and important ornaments that can last for ages when properly kept and taken care of. Doing this requires cleaning and removing any tarnish that may accumulate.
If for any reason you do not have access to a professional jeweler to help with the cleaning, there are readily available home ingredients and tricks you can use for your jewelry restoration.