How to Clean and Care for Your Jewellery
Jewellery is more than adornment it's a reflection of personal stories, milestones, and craftsmanship. Whether it's a bespoke engagement ring or a cherished heirloom, proper care ensures your pieces retain their brilliance and longevity. In this guide, we’ll walk you through expert techniques to clean and care for your jewellery at home, while preserving its integrity and sparkle.
Why Jewellery Needs Regular Cleaning
Over time, exposure to skin oils, lotions, perfumes, and environmental pollutants can dull the shine of your jewellery. Dirt and grime can accumulate in crevices, especially around gemstones and intricate settings. Regular cleaning not only restores brilliance but also helps prevent long-term damage.
General Cleaning Tips for All Jewellery
Before diving into metal-specific care, here are universal tips:
• Use lukewarm water: Hot water can damage delicate stones or loosen settings.
• Mild soap only: Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
• Soft-bristled brush: A baby toothbrush works wonders for reaching tiny crevices.
• Lint-free cloth: Microfiber or jewellery polishing cloths are ideal for drying and buffing.
Caring for Gold Jewellery
Gold is durable but prone to scratches and dullness over time.
Cleaning Steps:
• Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with lukewarm water.
• Soak for 15–20 minutes.
• Gently brush with a soft toothbrush.
• Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a soft cloth.
Pro Tip: Avoid chlorine exposure especially in pools as it can weaken gold alloys.
Caring for Silver Jewellery
Sterling silver tarnishes when exposed to air and moisture.
Cleaning Steps:
• Use a silver-specific polish or a homemade paste of baking soda and water.
• Rub gently with a soft cloth.
• Rinse and dry thoroughly.
Storage Tip: Store silver in anti-tarnish pouches or airtight containers to slow oxidation.
Caring for Gemstone Jewellery
Gemstones vary in hardness and sensitivity. Diamonds are tough, but opals and emeralds require extra care.
Cleaning Steps:
• Use only water and mild soap never ultrasonic cleaners for porous stones.
• Avoid soaking soft gems like turquoise, opal, or pearl.
• Gently wipe with a damp cloth and dry immediately.
Avoid: Direct sunlight, heat, and chemicals like hairspray or perfume.
Caring for Platinum and Palladium
These metals are highly durable and hypoallergenic.
Cleaning Steps:
• Soak in warm soapy water.
• Brush gently and rinse.
• Polish with a lint-free cloth.
Note: Platinum develops a natural patina over time, which many wearers find appealing. It can be professionally polished if preferred.
Professional Maintenance Tips
Even with regular home care, professional servicing is essential:
• Annual inspections: Check for loose stones, worn prongs, or signs of damage.
• Professional polishing: Restores shine and removes fine scratches.
• Ultrasonic cleaning: Safe for diamonds and hard stones, but not for all jewellery.
At Custom Jewellery Designs, we offer expert cleaning and inspection services to keep your pieces in pristine condition.
Storage and Everyday Care
• Store separately: Prevent scratches by keeping pieces in individual pouches or compartments.
• Remove before activities: Take off jewellery before swimming, exercising, or cleaning.
• Avoid humidity: Store in a cool, dry place with silica gel packets if needed.
Ethical and Sustainable Care
Caring for your jewellery also means respecting its origins. By maintaining your pieces, you reduce the need for replacements and support sustainable practices. We encourage customers to learn about ethical sourcing and responsible ownership values we proudly uphold in every bespoke creation.
Need Help with Repairs or Deep Cleaning?
If your jewellery needs more than a gentle polish, our team at Custom Jewellery based in Hillarys, Perth, WA is here to help. From expert repairs to professional restorations, we treat every piece with the precision and care it deserves.
