Gold and diamonds are among the most precious and timeless materials. Regardless of how valuable they are, they do require proper care and maintenance to retain their beauty and luster. In this article, we will guide you through step-by-step instructions on how to clean gold and diamonds.
The basics of cleaning gold
Gold’s softness means it is susceptible to scratches and dings that can result in dullness over time. Cleaning gold is advisable to keep the jewelry in the best condition possible. Here are some ways to clean gold:
Use warm water and mild soap
Soak your gold jewelry in a bowl of warm water and a bit of mild dish soap for 15 minutes. Using a soft-bristle toothbrush, gently scrub the piece with the solution to remove any dirt or grime buildup. Once clean, rinse the jewelry under running water and then dry it with a soft cloth.
Use baking soda and water solution
Mix water with some baking soda to make a paste, then gently apply the paste to your gold jewelry using a soft-bristle toothbrush. Be careful not to leave paste residue in your gold jewelry’s tiny crevices. Rinse your jewelry under running water and then dry it with a soft cloth.
The basics of cleaning diamonds
Diamonds are the hardest substance found in nature; however, they can still be damaged if not cared for properly. Here are some ways to clean diamonds:
Use mild soap and warm water
Soak your diamond ring in a bowl of lukewarm water and a bit of mild dish soap for 20-30 minutes. Using a soft-bristle toothbrush, gently scrub the area around your diamond, being careful not to scratch the metal. Break up any dirt or oil buildup on your ring, then drain soapy water and rinse your jewelry with warm water. Pat dry with a lint-free cloth.
Use ammonia or vinegar solution
Mix equal parts of water and ammonia or vinegar to make a solution. Soak your diamond in the mixture for 20-30 minutes, then lightly scrub the diamond with a soft toothbrush. Once done, rinse your jewelry with warm water, and dry with a clean cloth.
Cleaning gold with gemstones
Cleaning gold with gemstones requires extra care because some gemstones are porous and may discolor or become damaged when exposed to chemicals or water. Here are some ways to clean gold with gemstones:
Use a soft cloth
Use a soft, lint-free cloth to wipe your gold and gemstone jewelry clean. A cloth that is not abrasive can help remove any smudges, dirt or residue with care.
Use a mild soap and warm water
Similar to cleaning gold, you can use a mild soap and warm water to clean gold jewelry with gemstones. However, it’s critical to use a mild soap and colorless soap that won’t damage the gemstone.
Cleaning diamond with gold settings
Diamonds in gold settings require special care because of the metal’s softness. When cleaning a diamond that is set in gold, it is essential to keep the gold setting secure as well. Here are some tips to clean diamond with gold settings:
Use warm water and mild soap
Similar to cleaning gold, you can use a bowl of lukewarm water and a bit of mild dish soap to clean diamond with a gold setting. Remember to use a soft-bristle toothbrush to avoid scratching the gold.
Visit your local jeweler
Jewelers know how to safely clean and secure diamond with gold setting. If you’re not sure, take your jewelry to your local jeweler, who can provide a more professional cleaning and evaluation.
How often should you clean your gold and diamonds?
The frequency in which to clean gold and diamonds depends on how often the jewelry is worn and what it comes into contact with. We recommend cleaning once every few weeks as a general guideline. It is imperative to clean them regularly to ensure they retain their shine and appear like new.
Mistakes to avoid when cleaning gold and diamonds
When cleaning gold and diamonds, there are some common mistakes you should avoid to keep your jewelry looking like new:
- Do not use bleach when cleaning gold and diamonds because bleach is too corrosive, and it can corrode the metal.
- Avoid exposing your gold rings to lotions or perfumes since the oils in these products create a buildup that dulls your jewelry’s shine.
- Do not use abrasive cleaners or coarse sponges as this can leave scratches on your gold and diamonds and diminish their sparkle.
Conclusion
Cleaning gold and diamonds is a critical part of maintaining their quality and appearance. Be gentle when cleaning and avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that can harm the metal and gemstone. Follow our step-by-step guide and cleaning tips to ensure your jewelry retains its sparkle and shine.
Common questions about cleaning gold and diamonds
- Q: Can I use toothpaste to clean gold and diamonds?
- Q: Can I use an ultrasonic cleaner on my gold and diamond jewelry?
- Q: Can I wear my gold and diamond jewelry in water?
A: Toothpaste is not the best choice for cleaning gold and diamonds as it is abrasive and can lead to scratches.
A: Ultrasonic cleaners should be used sparingly and only to clean diamond jewelry. Avoid using it for gold jewelry with gemstones, as most cleaning solutions can damage, scratch, or even loosen the setting with the vibration.
A: It is best to avoid wearing your gold and diamond jewelry in the water, as chlorine and salt can lead to corrosion, discoloration, and degradation of the metal or gemstones over time.
References
- https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-clean-diamond-ring-2046185
- https://www.jewelrynotes.com/how-to-clean-gold-jewelry-without-ammonia/
- https://blog.brilliance.com/jewelry-guide/how-to-clean-gold-jewelry-properly