From your everyday jewelry to the expensive pieces you put on special occasions, jewelry requires cleaning occasionally. Jewelry, unlike our day-to-day clothing, is often overlooked during cleaning because most people believe it retains its shine for a long time.  This belief is untrue, as jewelry can become dull if neglected. Cleaning your jewelry requires special precautions to prevent damage, as over-cleaning can degrade its aesthetic value. 

Keep reading to learn different ways to clean metals and keep your jewelry fresh. As always, contact the professionals at Bostonian Jewelers to get your jewelry properly refurbished. 

How Often Should I Clean My Jewelry?

There is no one-size-fits-all rule to cleaning your jewelry, as it depends on how often it is worn, the last it was cleaned, and how it is stored. Some jewelry attracts more dirt than others and should be cleaned biweekly or monthly, while others don't. The general rule most people abide by is cleaning every two months to ensure it retains its color and shine. 

Tips To Clean Your Jewelry 

Cleaning your jewelry only requires professional help if stated by the jeweler or jewelry company. If you own regular jewelry pieces, the following are ways to keep them clean:-

Use liquid wash to clean your jewelry. 

Your liquid wash is suitable for washing dishes or clothes and can also clean your jewelry if appropriately used. The popular liquid soaks like Blue Dawn can eliminate months and years of dirt embedded deep in your jewelry. Another advantage is these washes are cheap, readily accessible, and can clean most metals, including silver, brass, titanium, gold-fill, and even aluminum, without damage. 

How-To Use:

1. Soak the jewelry in soapy water (containing an equal mixture of liquid wash and water) for several minutes.
2. Lather with the soap and rub the jewelry between your palms gently. Use a soft toothbrush to brush the joints and detailing if your jewelry has any engravings or carvings.
3. Repeat the procedure if the water gets brown or dark.
4. Rinse the jewelry with warm water and allow it to air dry. You can use a hair dryer/blower (on the lowest heat or most relaxed setting) to dry the jewelry. 

Use baking soda to clean your jewelry. 

Baking Soda is a powerful kitchen compound used for baking and even cleaning. It is used in many DIY procedures and has proven effective countless times. Mix baking soda with water and form a thick paste. Rub the paste on your still-dry jewelry for some minutes, and use a soft toothbrush to get the paste into the detailing and other tight corners. Rinse with water and air dry. 

Use plain vinegar to clean your jewelry. 

Vinegar effectively removes tarnishes in copper and brass jewelry. Soak the jewelry in vinegar for a few seconds. Remove the piece and wash with a non-lotion dishwashing soap and water for a few minutes. Rub it gently between your fingers and rinse thoroughly under cold water. Pat dry with a clean, lint-free towel to remove water spots, or use the blow dryer in a low setting. Ensure it is properly dry and stored in a fool-proof Ziploc® bag. 

Work with Bostonian Jewelers 

Bostonian Jewelers offers jewelry restoration and repair services. Whether you've uncovered vintage jewelry or forgotten about some beloved jewels that need a touch-up, our experts in Boston are the ones to choose from. Contact us today to schedule a one-on-one consultation.