Spring cleaning isn't just for household items. If you're like most of us who do not clean our jewelry every time we take it off, Spring is a great time to clean your jewelry and gemstones, too. JTV's Vice President of Merchandising, Dan Chase, shares these tips. - Dana Sebby, JTV.com Online Community Manager p.s. Don't forget to take off all jewelry before you begin the spring cleaning around your household. Why? Read on.....
How To Clean Jewelry by Dan Chase, VP of Merchandising for JTV
There are so many types of jewelry available today, and the variety of shapes, sizes, colors, materials, and finishes seem endless. One might think that they all require specialized care. However, there are simple measures you can take to preserve your pieces.
Lotions & Potions
Through our daily grooming rituals, we’re exposed to various chemicals that may not harm us but could be harmful to our jewelry. Commonly found in hair styling products, body lotions, moisturizers, perfumes and colognes, makeup, shaving cream, and soap, they can leave behind a residue that creates a dull film that can be difficult to remove. To prevent buildup, remove all jewelry before bathing and grooming.
Household Chores
Take off all jewelry before performing any kind of household chore or project. Harsh, abrasive cleaners and chlorine can cast hard-to-remove buildup and dull scratches. Also remove jewelry when working with power tools. Chains, rings, and earrings can easily get caught, resulting in serious injury. Follow all instructions when using such tools.
Water
Although we use water to clean much of our jewelry, you should thoroughly dry your pieces after exposure to water, especially before storing in an enclosed space. Moisture fosters tarnish on silver and can weaken springs and clasps. Certain costume/fashion jewelry and jewels should never be soaked in water or worn when bathing (see JTV Gem Enhancement and Care chart for more information).
How Extreme Temperatures Affect Jewelry and Gemstones
It is best to keep jewelry away from extreme heat or cold. For example, extreme heat (comparable to the temperature of very hot tap water or boiling water) can alter the cement commonly used with cultured pearls, marcasite, or in costume jewelry. A rapid increase in temperature can cause thermal shock and lead to fractures in some gemstones or discoloration of metal. In the case of gold-plated jewelry, it’s best to avoid abrasive polishing materials as well as a jeweler’s polishing wheel or torch.
Cleaning Jewelry
Follow these simple instructions for cleaning the following types of jewelry: carat gold, sterling silver, platinum, steel, gold-plated or gold-bonded, stainless steel, simulated gemstones and most gemstones.
You will need:
- A clean bowl
- Lukewarm water
- Mild dishwashing liquid or mild jewelry-cleaning solution
- Fine mesh plastic or stainless steel strainer (for items with gemstones)
- Soft, clean, and dry cloth (dust or dirt on the cloth may cause scratches)
- Small and soft bristle toothbrush or brush
- Toothpick
For items with gemstones, check the settings to make sure the stones are secure. Dirt and residue can act much like cement, keeping the stone in place even if the setting has become weak from wear. If this is the case, and the residue is removed during cleaning, the loose stone may fall out. If working over or near a sink, be sure to plug the drain.
If using a mild jewelry-cleaning solution, pour it into a clean bowl. You can also make your own solution by combining lukewarm water and mild dishwashing liquid (2 tablespoons dishwashing liquid to 1 quart of water).
Soak jewelry for 10 to 20 minutes to soften and loosen any residue or dirt. For items with gemstones, place the strainer on a large towel and inspect jewelry to make sure that all gemstones are in place. Thoroughly, but gently, brush the top, sides, and bottom of the piece with a soft brush to remove the softened residue. Make sure to brush the underside of gemstones. Use a toothpick to reach tiny crevices. Rinse with clean water. Thoroughly dry piece with a cloth. Leave jewelry on a towel for an extended period of time to ensure it is completely dry. If any residue remains, repeat these steps.
A Note About Commercial Jewelry Cleaners
Always follow the instructions when using a commercial jewelry cleaner. You can maintain its freshness by storing in a tightly sealed container. A stale or contaminated cleaner may be ineffective or even damage your jewelry. Also, check the expiration date before use.
For Special Cleaning Instructions for particular gemstones and jewelry, please refer to the JTV Gem Enhancement and Care chart located in JTV’s Learning Library.
