Different Types of Gold Jewelry
Gold jewelry comes in various types, so understanding these differences is essential for choosing the correct cleaning method.
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Solid gold, as the name suggests, solid gold jewelry is made with pure gold and does not contain other metals. It is usually marked with a karat value to indicate its purity level.
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Gold-plated jewelry has a thin layer of gold over another metal, usually silver or copper. The plating can wear off over time, revealing the base metal underneath.
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Gold-filled jewelry is similar to plated jewelry. It has a layer of gold on top of another metal. However, this layer is thicker, making it more durable and longer-lasting than gold-plated jewelry.
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Gold vermeil is a type of gold plating that uses sterling silver as the base metal. It's an affordable option for those who wish to maintain quality. However, do not leave it outside for long, or it will oxidize.
How to Clean Gold Jewelry at Home
Cleaning gold jewelry at home doesn’t require expensive professional services. Here’s how to restore your pieces with just a few household items.
Materials you’ll need:
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Mild dish soap
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Warm water
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Soft-bristled brush
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Microfiber cloth or soft cotton towel
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Small bowl
Materials you’ll need:
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Create a cleaning solution by filling a small bowl with warm water and adding a few drops of dish soap. Avoid harsh chemicals or detergents, as they can harm your gold. Swirl the water to create a soapy solution.
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Soak your gold jewelry in soapy water for 10-15 minutes. This will help loosen any dirt, oils, or grime that may have accumulated.
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Gently scrub it with a soft brush, such as a soft-bristle toothbrush. Focus on crevices, chain links, and areas where dirt might get trapped easily. Be gentle—especially with delicate pieces—to avoid scratching the surface.
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Rinse with warm water to remove soap residue. Plug your sink in before cleaning to prevent the loss of small gemstones.
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Dry and buff your jewelry with a soft, lint-free cloth to restore its shine. For extra sparkle, polish it with a microfiber cloth.
How to Clean Gold-Plated Jewelry
Gold-plated jewelry requires a more delicate approach than solid gold because the gold layer is thinner and more susceptible to wear. Here’s how to clean gold-plated jewelry without damaging the coating.
Materials you’ll need:
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Mild dish soap
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Warm water
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Soft cloth (microfiber or cotton)
Instructions:
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Create the cleaning solution by mixing warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap in a small bowl.
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Gently wipe instead of soaking your gold-plated jewelry, and dip a soft cloth into the soapy water. Avoid scrubbing or applying too much pressure, which can cause the gold plating to wear off.
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Rinse the cloth in clean water and wipe the jewelry to remove any soap residue.
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Dry your gold-plated jewelry with a soft towel and let it air dry completely before wearing or storing it.
Things to Avoid When Cleaning Gold Jewelry
The answer to “How do you clean gold jewelry?” is simple, but following the do’s and don’ts is tricky. So, here’s a list of a few things to avoid when cleaning your gold jewelry at home:
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Avoid harsh chemicals. Gold is a soft metal, and harsh chemicals like bleach, ammonia, or baking soda can damage or discolor it. Stick to mild soap and water for cleaning.
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Don’t use abrasive cleaners that can scratch the surface of your gold jewelry. Always use a soft, non-abrasive cloth for drying and polishing.
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Avoid skincare products such as hand lotions, sunscreen, and other cosmetics, which can do more harm than good when they come in contact with your gold accessories. Set your makeup and hair with setting spray and other appropriate products before you wear your jewelry pieces.
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Limit ultrasonic cleaners to delicate pieces. While they effectively remove grime, they can be too rough for fragile or antique gold pieces. Use these machines sparingly.
These are some DIY tricks for cleaning gold jewelry at home. However, these methods only work on jewelry with minor wear and tear. So, if you think your jewelry needs a thorough cleaning between the intricate designs, it’s best to visit a professional cleaner.
How to Maintain the Shine of Your Gold Jewelry
Knowing how to clean gold is one thing, but maintaining its luster between cleanings is just as important. Follow these tips to keep your gold jewelry shining longer:
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Remove jewelry before swimming or bathing. Chlorine in pools and chemicals in soaps can dull the shine of gold over time. Always remove your jewelry before going for a swim or taking a shower.
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Store properly. If stored together, gold can easily scratch other pieces. To avoid scratching your jewelry, store each piece in a dedicated jewelry case.
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Polish regularly using a jewelry polishing cloth to buff out minor scratches and restore shine for a quick touch-up. Make sure the fabric cloth is suitable for gold jewelry.
Cleaning gold jewelry is simple. By following these simple steps and avoiding common mistakes, you can keep your gold jewelry looking as good as new. The key to learning how to clean gold-plated jewelry or solid gold is gentle care and regular cleaning.
Now, the next time your favorite gold piece loses its sparkle, you’ll know just what to do! With these tips, your gold jewelry will always shine bright, making every piece feel like a new addition to your collection.
