Over time, even the finest jewelry loses its shine due to exposure to oils, dirt, and everyday wear. While professional cleanings are ideal for deep maintenance, most jewelry can be safely and effectively cleaned at home with a little extra care. This guide offers clear, step-by-step instructions for cleaning gold, silver, and diamond jewelry using materials you likely already have.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is for general educational purposes only. Always exercise caution and consult a professional jeweler before attempting to clean valuable or delicate jewelry. David Ellis Jewelers is not responsible for any damage resulting from at-home cleaning methods.
1. How to Clean Gold Jewelry at Home – DIY Jewelry Cleaning Tips
What You Need:
- Mild dish soap
- Hot and warm water – two bowls
- Soft toothbrush
- Microfiber or lint-free cloth
- Small bowl
Special Note: Avoid brushing too hard, especially on gold-plated jewelry, which can wear off.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Solution: Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water in a small bowl.
- Soak the Jewelry in hot water: Let the gold jewelry soak for 15–20 minutes to loosen dirt and residue.
- Gently brush your piece of jewelry. Use a soft toothbrush to clean around crevices, prongs, and chain links.
- Rinse and Dry: Rinse under warm water and pat dry with a soft microfiber cloth or polishing cloth.
Avoid: Harsh chemicals, toothpaste, and abrasive materials—they can scratch the surface or wear down the gold.
2. How to Clean Silver Jewelry
What You Need:
- Baking soda
- Warm water
- Aluminum foil
- Glass or ceramic bowl
- Soft cloth
Special Note: This is for sterling silver only, not silver-plated items, which could lose plating.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Line the bowl with aluminum foil: Place a piece of aluminum foil in the bottom of your bowl, shiny side up.
- Make a Cleaning Solution: Add one tablespoon of baking soda per cup of hot water and stir until dissolved.
- Submerge the Jewelry: Place silver pieces in the bowl so they touch the foil. Let sit for 5–10 minutes.
- Rinse and Dry: Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry with a soft microfiber cloth.
Note: This method works best for removing tarnish. For heavily tarnished or antique silver, consult a jeweler to avoid damage to finishes or patina.
3. How to Clean Diamond Jewelry
What You Need:
- Mild dish soap
- Warm water
- Soft toothbrush
- Lint-free cloth
- Ammonia (optional for deeper cleaning)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Soak in Soapy Water: Combine warm water with a few drops of dish soap. Soak your diamond jewelry (diamond rings or necklaces) for 20–30 minutes.
- Brush Gently for Proper Care: Use a soft toothbrush to clean behind the stone and around the setting.
- Rinse and Dry: Rinse under clean running water and dry with a lint-free cloth.
Optional Ammonia Jewelry Cleaning Boost (Occasionally):
Special Note: Never use ammonia on diamonds that are set with other stones like pearls or opals, which are sensitive. Additionally, do not clean fracture-filled diamonds (treated to hide flaws), which ammonia can damage.
Mix one part ammonia with six parts water for an extra-deep clean. Take special care to soak the jewelry briefly and follow with the same brushing and rinsing steps.
Caution: Use ammonia sparingly and avoid if the piece contains other gemstones that may react negatively.
4. General Tips for Cleaning Jewelry at Home
- Inspect jewelry for loose stones or damage before cleaning, as water or brushing could worsen existing issues.
- Do Not Soak Porous Gemstones: Avoid soaking opals, pearls, turquoise, or emeralds. Use a damp cloth instead.
- Avoid Ultrasonic Cleaners Unless Advised: Some stones and settings can loosen or become damaged from vibrations.
- Store Jewelry Properly: Clean pieces should be stored in dry, separate compartments to avoid scratching and tarnish.
5. When to See a Professional
While regular at-home cleanings keep jewelry looking good, consider a professional cleaning if:
- Stones appear loose in their settings
- Jewelry contains multiple types of materials
- There’s heavy tarnish or buildup that doesn’t come off
- You’re unsure of the gemstone’s sensitivity to chemicals
How Often Should I Clean My Jewelry?
Regular cleaning of your various types of jewelry and precious metals should be on a monthly basis for regular wear items, with professional inspections every 6–12 months.
Can I clean my Jewelry with Vinegar?
Vinegar is not safe for all metals or gemstones (especially soft stones like pearls, opals, or emeralds).
Is Baking Soda Safe for All Types of Jewelry?
Baking soda is good for sterling silver, but not recommended for gold-plated, gemstone, or antique jewelry.
Can I Use Toothpaste to Clean Jewelry?
No, toothpaste is far too abrasive and can scratch metals and gemstones.
Cleaning your gold, silver, and diamond jewelry at home is safe and effective with the right methods. By following these simple routines, you can maintain your jewelry’s appearance between professional cleanings. For complex pieces, or when in doubt, consult David Ellis Jewelers to preserve both the look and integrity of your collection.