How to Clean Gold Plated Jewelry So It Looks Shiny and New

How to Clean Gold Plated Jewelry Without Gemtones

When you remove your jewelry for the day, get in the habit of giving it a quick wipe with a soft cloth or a jewelry cloth. Remember, less is more. Here's how to keep gold plated jewelry looking like new with a more thorough cleaning:

1. Soak the Jewelry

   In a small bowl, combine warm water with a few drops of mild soap. Stir the soap into the water to create some suds. Add one piece of jewelry and allow it to soak for about five to 10 minutes.

   If you don't want to use liquid soap, another option is a reliable (and gentle) jewelry cleaner to keep your costume jewelry collection sparkling.

2. Remove Any Dirt

   If there is any dirt embedded in the crevices of the jewelry, use a cotton swab or a soft-bristled baby toothbrush to gently remove it. Then rinse the piece thoroughly.

3. Dry Thoroughly

   Using a soft, lint-free cloth, dry the jewelry and buff the surface so it shines. This step will dry the piece and remove any built-up tarnish.

How to Clean Costume Jewelry With Gemstones

If your jewelry has precious or semi-precious stones in it, you're going to need to be a bit more careful. You can either use a cloth or do a deep clean with a solution. Here's how:

1. Wipe the Pieces with a Soft Cloth

   Use a soft cloth to wipe the pieces regularly or after every wear. Take care when wiping so as not to snag the cloth on any gemstones. This step will help remove tarnish before it takes over.

   Avoid soaking the jewelry, and don't use water that's too warm, as both could loosen the glue that may be adhering the stones to the jewelry.

2. Deep Clean with a Solution

   For a deep clean, dampen a cotton swab or soft-bristled toothbrush in a solution of water and mild soap to clear away any dirt or debris. Rinse and thoroughly dry the jewelry. (Remember, no soaking!)

When to See a Professional

If a piece of costume jewelry is really precious to you, or you're just unsure what the material may be, Lowe suggests bringing it to a professional cleaner instead of making it a DIY project.

"To really get your gold and gemstones to sparkle, I often tell customers to have their pieces professionally checked and cleaned every six months to a year," she says.

A pro will not only know the right way to clean your gold plated jewelry, but they can also fix loose settings so you won't lose any gemstones. If the gold plating on your jewelry has worn away, it may also be possible to get the piece replated by a professional.

Tips for Keeping Jewelry Clean for Longer

• Store your gold plated jewelry properly. Give it a home in your jewelry box, and consider wrapping it in a soft cloth before storing it away. You can also order anti-tarnish bags that will prevent your jewelry from oxidizing and getting discolored.
• Avoid applying hand lotions or sunscreens while wearing your jewelry. And try to remember to use hairspray and other products before putting on your jewelry.
• Always remove your jewelry before a workout. Sweat can cause jewelry to tarnish.
• Take off your jewelry before going into a chlorinated pool or hot tub. This one should be self-explanatory.
• When traveling, avoid tossing all your jewelry into one bag. Costume jewelry can rub against each other and get scratched. Instead, use a travel-ready jewelry organizer.