Jewellery Cleaning Myths: What works and what doesn’t

Jewellery Cleaning Myths: What works and what doesn’t

Unsure how to clean jewellery? Keeping your jewellery sparkling and beautiful often feels like a challenge, especially with so many cleaning tips and tricks circulating online. In fact, some methods can do more harm than good, potentially damaging your precious jewellery. In this blog, we’ll debunk common jewellery cleaning myths and share effective techniques to maintain the beauty and longevity of your favourite items. We hope you’ll find it helpful.

Jewellery Cleaning Myth 1: “Toothpaste is a great cleaner for jewellery”

The truth: whilst we have met several customers who recommend this, we’d contend that toothpaste is far too abrasive for most jewellery. The tiny particles in toothpaste can scratch the surface of softer gemstones like opals and pearls and can even damage the finish of metals such as gold and silver.

What we suggest: use a non-abrasive jewellery cleaning solution or mild dish soap mixed with warm water. Gently scrub with a soft-bristle brush to remove dirt and restore shine.

Jewellery Cleaning Myth 2 “Soaking jewellery in vinegar cleans it perfectly”

The truth: vinegar can be effective for cleaning certain metals like pure gold but it is far too harsh for gemstones especially organic ones like pearls. We find it can cause discolouration or even weaken the structure of some stones.

What we suggest: stick to gentle cleaning agents designed for jewellery. Use a micro-fibre cloth or soft brush to clean these precious pieces.

Jewellery Cleaning Myth 3 Boiling water is safe for cleaning all jewellery

The Truth: While boiling water can remove dirt from plain silver or gold jewellery, we don’t recommend it for pieces with gemstones. Extreme heat can cause cracks or loosen the stone settings, particularly in softer stones like emeralds or opals. In some designs pearls and stones will have been set using a cement type substance which may become weakened by boiling water. Boiling water is great when used to clean plain sterling silver – see our video of a hack for best ways to clean sterling silver jewellery.

What we suggest: Instead of boiling water, use lukewarm water and mild soap.

Jewellery Cleaning Myth 4 Bleach and other harsh chemicals are effective cleaners

The Truth: Bleach, ammonia and similar chemicals can damage your jewellery, especially if you have jewellery with gemstones or plated jewellery. These harsh chemicals can discolour your jewellery and weaken the structure of both the metal and the stones.

What we suggest: We recommend steering clear of harsh chemicals and use jewellery-specific cleaners, checking that they are suitable for the type of jewellery you’re cleaning.

Jewellery Cleaning Myth 5: Ultrasonic cleaners are safe for all jewellery

The Truth: ultrasonic cleaners can be effective for certain types of jewellery but they are not suitable for all jewellery. The vibrations can loosen stones, especially in antique jewellery or items with fragile settings. They’re also unsafe for softer gemstones like turquoise and opals.

What we suggest: before using an ultrasonic cleaner, consult a jeweller to ensure your piece is suitable for this method. Otherwise stick to a manual cleaning method for a safer method.

Jewellery Cleaning Myth 6: Jewellery can be cleaned the same way

The Truth: as you will have gathered from reading this so far, different materials require different cleaning methods. Pearls and porous stones like amber and turquoise, can’t withstand the same cleaning methods as diamonds and sapphires.

What we suggest: We recommend you research the best cleaning method for the particular components in the piece of jewellery you’re planning to clean.

Jewellery Cleaning Myth 7: Soap and water always work

The Truth: While mild soap and water are safe for many types of jewellery, they’re not suitable for everything. For instance, soap residue can accumulate in intricate designs and dull the sparkle of gemstones if not rinsed thoroughly.

What we suggest: Use soap and water sparingly and ensure you rinse and dry the jewellery completely to prevent residue or water spots. For heavily soiled jewellery, you can always consider professional cleaning.

How should I clean my jewellery? Tips for effective jewellery cleaning:

• Know your materials: before you start, we recommend you Identify the materials in your jewellery, including the gemstones, metals and settings. Then you’l be able to choose the safest cleaning method.
• Use gentle tools: opt for soft-bristle brushes, lint-free cloths and mild cleaning agent to avoid sratches and other damage.
• Store jewellery properly: we have lots of advice on our blogs about how best to store jewellery. We recommend our anti-tarnish individual jewellery pouches as a great way to store jewellery
• Avoid DIY risks: if you’re not sure, take your jewellery to a professional jeweller to ask for advice
• Regular maintenance: schedule periodic cleanings to keep your jewellery in top condition. We suggest to our clients that regular cleaning helps keep dirt to a minimum and therefore makes the cleaning easier.

so finally…

Caring for your jewellery doesn’t have to be complicated but it does require accurate information and the right tools. By avoiding these common cleaning myths and following proven methods, you can preserve the beauty and value of your jewellery for years to come. Whether you’re maintaining an engagement ring, your favourite Flutterby everyday pieces or costume jewellery, proper care is the key to keeping them looking their best.