5 Ways to Make Your Gold Jewelry Shine Forever

Gold jewelry symbolizes elegance and luxury and is a timeless investment that can be passed down through generations. Whether it's a sparkling engagement ring, a dainty bracelet, or a statement necklace, we all want our gold jewelry to shine forever. Over time, exposure to the elements, daily wear, and simple neglect can cause gold pieces to lose their luster. 

At Bostonian Jewelers, we specialize in jewelry care and restoration. We've gathered six expert tips to help keep your jewelry looking as brilliant as the day you bought it. 

1. Keep It Clean With Regular Maintenance

Gold jewelry naturally attracts dirt, oils, and debris from everyday wear. Regular cleaning is one of the best ways to ensure your pieces maintain their shine. Here's a simple at-home cleaning method, or purchase our jewelry cleaning solution at Bostonian Jewelers: 

• Soak your jewelry: Mix warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap or baby shampoo. Place your gold jewelry in the solution for about 15 minutes. 
• Gentle Scrubbing: Use a soft toothbrush to clean hard-to-reach areas, such as prongs and settings. 
• Rinse and Dry: Rinse the jewelry under warm water and dry it with a soft, lint-free cloth. 

2. Avoid Harsh Chemicals and Abrasives 

Gold is durable, but exposure to certain chemicals can still affect it. Household cleaners, chlorine, and even some beauty products, such as hairspray and perfumes, can tarnish or dull the shine of gold jewelry. 

We recommend removing your jewelry when cleaning with chemicals, swimming in a chlorinated pool, or applying makeup. Avoid using abrasive materials such as toothpaste or rough cleaning cloths, as these can scratch and dull your jewelry. 

3. Store Jewelry Properly 

Proper storage is key to maintaining the shine of your gold jewelry. Storing it incorrectly can lead to scratches, tarnishing, and tangling, all of which can dull its brilliance.

• Use individual pouches or compartments: Store each piece of jewelry in a soft pouch or compartment to prevent scratching. A jewelry box with separate sections for chains or necklaces can also prevent tangling.
• Avoid extreme temperatures: Keep your jewelry in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Extreme heat or humidity can cause discoloration or tarnishing over time.
• Use anti-tarnish cloths or pouches: These specially designed pouches can help protect gold from tarnishing, especially in a humid climate.

4. Limit Exposure to Sweat and Oils

Sweat and natural oils from your skin are some of the most significant contributors to gold's dull appearance. When you wear your jewelry daily, it accumulates oils from your body, lotions, and even perfumes, which can cause the surface to lose its shine. Remove your jewelry when exercising, cooking, or applying lotions or perfumes. This will minimize exposure to oils, perspiration, and other substances that can affect the appearance of gold jewelry. 

5. Have Your Jewelry Professionally Cleaned at Bostonian Jewelers

While at-home care is essential, a professional inspection and cleaning by a jeweler can help preserve your gold jewelry's shine. Professional jewelers have the tools and expertise to clean pieces thoroughly, check for signs of wear, and repair any damage, like loose stones or bent prongs, before it worsens. 

At Bostonian Jewelers, we offer expert jewelry maintenance services, including cleaning, polishing, repairs, and restorations. Our team can remove deep-set tarnish, restore rhodium plating, and ensure your gold jewelry stays in perfect condition for years.