When you’ve curated a collection of yellow gold jewelry, it’s important to make sure it lasts a lifetime. The secret? Understanding the best methods for cleaning each piece! Luckily, when you have the proper tools at your disposal, it’s easier than you think.
Why is it Important to Regularly Clean Gold Jewelry?
Cleaning yellow gold jewelry, whether it’s solid gold or gold plated, helps maintain its shine and ensures it lasts for years of everyday wear. Even the purest gold, if not taken care of, can lose its brilliance over time.
If a design is worn often, it accumulates a surprising amount of dirt and grime, from oils, lotions, environmental elements, and sweat. Taking the time to cleanse the surface of your engagement ring or favorite gold necklace will prevent a dull, filmy layer from forming. If left untreated, the buildup can lead to tarnished surfaces, corrosion, and even structural issues.
It makes sense that well-maintained jewelry retains its value over neglected or tarnished pieces. Every fine jewelry purchase is considered an investment, whether it’s a wedding ring set that could potentially become a family heirloom or a one-of-a-kind diamond necklace. If you ever decide to sell or pass on your favorite pieces, potential buyers will be more likely to buy cleaned yellow gold jewelry than broken or dirty designs.
How Often Should You Clean Yellow Gold Jewelry?
To maintain its beautiful luster, yellow gold jewelry should be cleaned at least every two weeks. If it’s something like an engagement ring or a yellow gold wedding band that is worn every day or accidentally exposed to harsh chemicals, you can clean it more frequently.
The Difference Between Cleaning Plated Gold Jewelry and High Karat Gold Jewelry
Before you clean yellow gold jewelry, it’s important to note whether or not it’s plated. Fine jewelry is often made from solid gold, whereas plated jewelry features a thin layer of gold applied to a less expensive base metal.
Solid gold jewelry is quite soft, making it more susceptible to scratches. If your favorite yellow gold door knocker earrings are made from solid 14K, 18K, or 24K gold, they will require a gentler cleaning than something with lower carats. Cleaning plated gold jewelry requires extra-careful handling, as the thin layer of gold could easily wear off if scrubbed with too much force or soaked for too long.
Are Sterling Silver and Yellow Gold Jewelry Cleaned Differently?
It may surprise you to learn that cleaning yellow gold jewelry and sterling silver requires different techniques, but it’s true! Since they have differing metal compositions, cleaning instructions vary. When you clean sterling silver, you’re more worried about tarnish than simply removing shine-dulling dirt and oil.
Learn the 3 Different Methods for Cleaning Yellow Gold Jewelry
While it may seem like a daunting task, anyone can learn to clean plated gold jewelry and high-karat yellow gold jewelry. Here are three common methods for keeping your favorite wedding stack spick and span:
Method #1: Make a DIY Cleaner
The top-recommended way to clean plated gold jewelry and solid gold jewelry at home involves things you likely already have at home! Simply fill a small bowl with warm water and a few drops of liquid dish soap, mixing together thoroughly before setting aside. Add your jewelry one piece at a time, making sure they don’t touch or rub together, and soak them for 10 to 20 minutes.
Once the time is up, inspect each piece and scrub any visible debris or residue with a soft-bristled brush, such as a toothbrush or eyebrow spoolie. Remove your jewelry from the soapy mixture, rinse carefully with fresh water, and dry each one with a soft cotton cloth. Let them dry completely before storing them away or putting them back on.
Tools Needed to Clean Gold Jewelry with Dish Soap:
- Soft cotton cloth
- Soft-bristled brush
- Small bowl
- Dish soap
- Warm water
Can You Use Vinegar to Clean Yellow Gold Jewelry?
When researching ways to clean yellow gold jewelry, you’ll find that many people prefer using white distilled vinegar instead of dish soap. Though it’s technically safe, the acidity of the vinegar could potentially damage the other metals used in gold alloys, as well as any pearls or gemstones present in the design.
Pro tip: white vinegar is mainly effective on 100% pure gold and should be used very sparingly when cleaning plated gold jewelry.
Method #2: Create a Baking Soda Paste
When it comes to cleaning yellow gold jewelry, some people prefer the baking soda method. Start by combining about a ¼ cup of baking soda with two tablespoons of water, mixing together to create a thick paste. Using your fingers or a soft cloth, carefully apply the paste to your jewelry, gently rubbing the paste in small, circular motions, paying close attention to any surfaces with visible dirt.
Rinse each piece under warm, running water to completely remove the mildly abrasive paste. Once you’re sure the mixture is gone, you can pat it dry with a soft, lint-free cloth. Separating the rinsing and drying steps will ensure no scratches occur. When the designs are 100% dry, they can be stored or worn once more.
Tools Needed to Clean Gold Jewelry with Baking Soda:
- Baking soda
- Water
- Soft-bristled brush
- Lint-free cloth
Method #3: Take it to a Professional
If you’re too nervous to deep-clean yellow gold jewelry at home, don’t worry! You can always take your more intricate pieces in for professional cleanings, whether it be a mixed gemstone yellow gold collar necklace or an extravagant ring. Your local jeweler will have all the specialized tools and training necessary to deep clean plated gold jewelry and address any specific issues, such as loose gemstones or prongs.
3 Signs You Should Have a Professional Clean Your Gold Plated Jewelry:
- Visible signs of wear and tear or scratches
- Gemstones appear loose or misaligned
- The surface is fading or discolored
When you remember to clean your gold jewelry, you can keep your favorite designs looking as good as new for years to come. All it takes is a little TLC and elbow grease! With our easy-to-follow methods, cleaning yellow gold jewelry and your favorite gold plated designs is simple.
