Surprising tricks for keeping jewelry clean
You’ve put a lot of effort into building up your jewelry collection. And you’re probably worried about damaging your prized possessions with overly aggressive cleaning methods. There’s a lot of contradictory advice out there, too. For instance, you’ve probably been advised to use denture tablets to clean your rings, but actually, these contain chemicals that will weaken the setting over time. If you have any doubts about your chosen cleaning method, you can always consult a professional jeweler. In the meantime, check out these handy tips.
Use a sound wave-based cleaner
Sound wave cleaning devices sound futuristic, but they’re pretty common now, and they can be had for under $50. Look for anything labeled sonic or ultrasonic. Some of them are designed specifically to clean jewelry. These devices work thanks to the amazing properties of sonication, which refers to the use of sound energy to create vibrations. The vibrations agitate and break apart grime and dirt, leaving your jewelry shiny and clean.
Another use for vodka
If you’re at least 21 and can get your hands on some vodka, you can use it to clean any gemstones that are crystals, like diamonds and emeralds. Just dip a soft cloth in vodka, and wipe your diamond with it.
Add a little Windex
Isn’t it annoying when you can’t spray that last bit of Windex out of the bottle? Don’t toss it out; instead, add it to a bowl, dilute it with water, and use it to soak your rings overnight. Diluted Windex is safe for use on gemstones, their metal settings, silver, and gold. This method also works with ammonia. Add a quarter cup to one cup of water.
The care and keeping of pearls
Pearls are far fussier and high maintenance compared to most precious metals. They, along with coral, opals, and turquoise, require extra sensitive care. Most of the time, you should be able to clean them with a quick dip in water and a gentle wipe with a soft cloth. If you must do a more thorough cleaning, use a very mild, non-detergent soap. Castile soap works well. Just use a drop or two of the soap, and gently apply it with an unused makeup brush.
Additionally, remember that old rule: “Last on, first off.” Only put on your pearls once you’ve finished applying all hygiene and cosmetic products, since they are sensitive to residue. Take them off as soon as you get home. Every one to three years, bring them to a jeweler to get them restrung.
Find what your collection needs at F. Silverman Jewelers
Now that you know how to take good care of your collection, you can add to it with confidence with help from the expert team at F. Silverman Jewelers. We’re your source for fine and fashion jewelry in Bergen County, New Jersey. Our shop is known for excellence in customer service, and for having an extensive and varied collection of top designer brands. Our custom jewelers help customers from Saddle River to Montvale. To learn more about our collection, or to ask about our custom jewelry options, stop by our store in Woodcliff Lake, NJ or call us today.
Additional resources for jewelry lovers
- Science Trends, Using Sonication: From A Jewelry Store To A Research Lab, https://sciencetrends.com/using-sonication-jewelry-store-research-lab/
- Who What Wear, How to Clean Your Jewelry With Household Products, http://www.whowhatwear.com/how-to-clean-jewelry