We’ve all been there: your favorite ring looks a little lackluster, and you think, “I can clean this myself. How hard can it be?” Armed with good intentions and questionable internet advice, you dive into a DIY jewelry cleaning mission. Spoiler alert: things don’t always go as planned.
A significant statistic shows that DIY jewelry cleaning leads to a 30% increase in repair costs for jewelry that has been damaged by improper cleaning techniques compared to regular maintenance costs.
In this blog post, we’ll share why it’s best to leave your valuable gems and metals to professional care. From the dangers of abrasive ingredients to the complexities of different materials, we’ll explain why you should stay away from skipping or taking shortcuts in jewelry maintenance.
Common DIY Jewelry Cleaning Mistakes
DIY jewelry cleaning can sometimes go hilariously (and expensively) wrong. From using toothpaste on your diamonds to soaking pearls in vinegar, there are plenty of issues and problems that can’t be completely resolved right away. Here are the 10 common and costly mistakes when cleaning jewelry at home.
1. Using Abrasive Cleaners
Many household cleaners, intended for tough stains and grime on household surfaces, contain harsh chemicals and abrasive ingredients that can scratch and dull your jewelry. Always avoid products not specifically designed for jewelry.
It’s crucial to be discerning when selecting cleaning products for your jewelry. Finding cleaners specifically designed for jewelry ensures that they are formulated to be gentle yet effective on precious metals and gemstones. These specialized cleaners are typically free from harsh chemicals and abrasive agents that could harm your jewelry.
2. Scrubbing Too Hard
Scrubbing your jewelry vigorously can loosen stones and damage settings. While it might seem intuitive to apply force when cleaning to ensure thorough removal of dirt and grime, excessive scrubbing can actually do more harm than good.
Gentle cleaning with the right tools is crucial to preserving the integrity of your pieces. Soft-bristled brushes, microfiber cloths, and specialized cleaning solutions are preferable to harsh scrubbing. These tools allow for effective cleaning without putting undue stress on delicate settings or metal surfaces.
3. Soaking for Too Long
One of the primary concerns with extended soaking is the potential weakening of the metal. Many metals used in jewelry, such as gold and silver, can be susceptible to corrosion and tarnishing when exposed to moisture for prolonged periods. Additionally, prolonged exposure to water can lead to metal fatigue, causing it to become brittle and more prone to breakage over time.
Furthermore, certain stones are porous and can absorb water, cleaning solutions, and other liquids. For example, pearls and opals are particularly porous and can be easily damaged by extended exposure to moisture. Water can cause these stones to swell, crack, or lose their luster, irreversibly altering their appearance and value.
Even non-porous stones can be affected by prolonged soaking. For instance, certain gemstones may have treatments or enhancements that can be compromised by extended exposure to cleaning solutions. This can lead to discoloration, dullness, or other undesirable changes in the stone’s appearance.
It is best to follow recommended soaking times closely. Typically, brief soaking periods of no more than a few minutes are sufficient to loosen dirt and grime without posing significant risks to the integrity of your pieces.
4. Ignoring Gemstone Differences
Different gemstones require different care. Each gemstone possesses unique characteristics, including hardness, durability, and sensitivity to various cleaning agents. Failing to recognize and accommodate these differences can result in irreversible harm to your jewelry.
One crucial consideration is the hardness of the gemstone. Gemstones are rated on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, which measures their resistance to scratching and abrasion. For example, pearls are very soft and can be damaged by standard cleaning solutions that are safe for harder stones like diamonds.
To effectively care for your gemstone jewelry, it’s essential to educate yourself about the specific needs of each stone in your collection. Referencing reputable sources or consulting with a jewelry professional can provide valuable insights into the recommended cleaning methods and precautions for each type of gemstone. Additionally, using gentle cleaning techniques and avoiding harsh chemicals can help safeguard the beauty and longevity of your jewelry.
5. Using Boiling Water
Exposure to high temperatures can cause some gemstones to crack or discolor. Avoid using boiling water and stick to lukewarm temperatures.
Some gemstones are sensitive to heat and can undergo changes in color or clarity when exposed to high temperatures. For example, heat-treated gemstones like amethyst or citrine may revert to their original colorless state when subjected to boiling water. Additionally, certain organic gemstones, such as pearls and coral, are particularly vulnerable to heat and can become discolored or damaged when exposed to hot temperatures.
6. Not Rinsing Properly
Proper rinsing is a crucial step in cleaning your jewelry that is often overlooked but can have a significant impact on the appearance and longevity of your pieces. When cleaning jewelry, residues from cleaning solutions can accumulate on the surface of the metal and gemstones, gradually dulling their shine and luster over time. Failing to rinse these residues off thoroughly can result in a lackluster appearance and may even contribute to tarnishing or corrosion of the metal.
To ensure thorough rinsing, it’s essential to use clean water and take the time to rinse each piece of jewelry thoroughly. Pay special attention to intricate details, such as prongs or settings, where dirt and residue may accumulate. Swirling the jewelry in the water or using a gentle stream of water to rinse away debris can help ensure that all traces of cleaning solution are removed.
After rinsing, be sure to pat your jewelry dry with a soft, lint-free cloth to remove any excess water and prevent water spots or tarnishing. Proper drying is especially important for porous gemstones or metals that are prone to tarnish, as moisture left on the surface can promote corrosion or discoloration over time.
7. Drying with Paper Towels
Drying your jewelry with paper towels might seem like a convenient option, but it can actually pose risks to the integrity and appearance of your precious pieces. Paper towels, while absorbent, are often rough in texture and can contain abrasive fibers that have the potential to scratch delicate metals and gemstones. Additionally, the fibers from paper towels can leave behind lint or residue on the surface of your jewelry, detracting from its brilliance and shine.
Many metals used in jewelry, such as gold, silver, and platinum, are relatively soft and prone to scratching when exposed to abrasive materials. The rough texture of paper towels can create fine scratches on the metal surface, diminishing its luster and leaving behind visible marks that detract from the overall appearance of the piece. Use a soft, lint-free cloth instead for drying to keep your jewelry in pristine condition.
8. DIY Ultrasonic Cleaners
DIY ultrasonic cleaners have gained popularity as a convenient and efficient way to clean jewelry at home. However, the improper use of these devices can pose significant risks to the integrity and safety of your precious pieces. Ultrasonic jewelry cleaning machines utilize high-frequency sound waves to create vibrations that dislodge dirt and grime from the surface of jewelry. While effective when used correctly, these powerful vibrations can also have unintended consequences, particularly for delicate or fragile items.
The intense vibrations produced by ultrasonic cleaners can cause stones to become loose or dislodged from their settings, especially if the settings are worn or compromised. This risk is particularly high for jewelry with delicate or intricate settings, such as pave or prong settings, where the stones may be more susceptible to movement. Generally, it’s best to leave ultrasonic cleaning to professionals who know how to handle delicate items.
9. Using Homemade Solutions
While homemade cleaning solutions for jewelries are available to use everywhere as cost-effective and natural alternatives, they can actually pose significant risks to the integrity and beauty of your precious pieces.
Ingredients commonly found in homemade solutions, such as baking soda, lemon juice, and vinegar, can be abrasive and acidic, potentially causing irreversible damage to both metals and gemstones. Metals like silver and copper are particularly vulnerable to acid corrosion, which can lead to irreversible damage if left unchecked. Even relatively inert metals like gold can be affected by prolonged exposure to acidic solutions, resulting in a loss of luster and surface discoloration.
Many gemstones are sensitive to acids and can be damaged or discolored when exposed to acidic solutions. For example, pearls, opals, and turquoise are particularly vulnerable to damage from acidic substances, which can erode their delicate surfaces and compromise their structural integrity. As a result, it’s generally advisable to avoid using homemade solutions and instead opt for professional cleaning products specifically formulated for jewelry care.
10. Neglecting Professional Check-Ups
Neglecting or skipping regular professional check-ups for your jewelry can lead to undetected issues that may become costly and problematic over time. Scheduling regular professional jewelry inspections means early detection of any potential jewelry issues before they get worse.
For example, gemstones can become loose in their settings due to everyday wear and tear, which can weaken prongs and other securing mechanisms. Our master jewelers can meticulously examine each stone’s setting, ensuring that it is secure and making any necessary adjustments to prevent stones from falling out. Catching loose stones early can save you from the heartbreak and expense of replacing lost gemstones, which can be particularly costly if the stones are rare or have sentimental value.
How Often Should You Clean Your Jewelry?
Maintaining the brilliance of your jewelry requires regular cleaning which depends on several factors, primarily how often you wear each piece. Here’s a simple guide to help you determine how often you should clean your jewelry to keep it looking its best.
Daily-Wear Jewelry
Jewelry pieces that you wear every day, such as wedding rings, necklaces, or bracelets, are exposed to oils from your skin, lotions, soaps, and other daily grime. These pieces should be cleaned more frequently:
- Weekly Cleaning: To prevent buildup, clean daily-wear jewelry once a week. Use a mild soap solution and a soft brush to gently scrub away dirt and oils. This routine helps maintain their shine and hygiene.
Frequently-Worn Jewelry
For jewelry that you wear often but not daily, such as favorite earrings or a go-to watch, the cleaning schedule can be a bit more relaxed:
- Bi-Weekly to Monthly Cleaning: Depending on how often they are worn, these pieces can be cleaned every two weeks to once a month. If you’re traveling, you may take a jewelry cleaning kit with you so you can take care of them, especially if you wear them often everywhere. For instance, earrings that come into close contact with your skin and hair products might need bi-weekly cleaning, while a watch might only need monthly maintenance.
Special Occasion Jewelry
Pieces reserved for special occasions, like a statement necklace or a pair of diamond studs, don’t require as frequent cleaning:
- Quarterly Cleaning: Since these items are worn less often, cleaning costume jewelry, for example every three months is usually enough. This ensures they are ready to dazzle when you bring them out for special events.
High-Risk Jewelry
Certain types of jewelry are more susceptible to dirt and grime, such as rings, which can accumulate residue from hand washing, cooking, and other activities:
- Weekly Cleaning: Rings, especially those worn daily, should be cleaned weekly to prevent grime buildup. A simple soak in warm soapy water followed by gentle scrubbing with a soft brush can keep them sparkling.
Professional Cleaning
In addition to regular at-home cleaning, it’s beneficial to have your jewelry professionally cleaned periodically. Professional jewelers can thoroughly clean and inspect your pieces, ensuring they remain in excellent condition:
- Annual Cleaning: Schedule a professional cleaning and inspection at least once a year. This helps catch any potential issues, such as loose stones or weakened settings, before they become serious problems.
Visit Da Vinci Jewelry Design for Professional Care
While DIY cleaning methods can be useful for quick touch-ups, professional jewelry cleaning provides a deeper, more thorough clean and addresses issues that DIY methods simply can’t. With the expertise, advanced equipment, and comprehensive care that we offer, your jewelry won’t only look its best but will also remain in pristine condition.
Here’s the best part: we’re offering a complimentary cleaning service! No more guessing which cleaning product is safe or worrying about damaging your gems – we’ve got you covered. Our state-of-the-art cleaning techniques and expert knowledge mean your jewelry will receive the best care possible.
For the best care and maintenance, trust your precious pieces to the professionals. Also, protect your precious pieces by avoiding the common jewelry mistakes above and seeking professional care. Your jewelry will thank you by remaining beautiful and intact for years to come.