How Do I Clean Gold-Plated Jewelry So it Looks New?

Anyone can easily fall in love with jewelry that’s plated and affordable. You also want to keep it looking good so you can wear it forever and ever. Maintaining gold plated jewelry is a little different from cleaning solid gold and sterling silver. The main reason is that there's a use of different metals while making different types of jewelry.

This article highlights information regarding when and how you should clean your gold-plated jewelry. Before diving into the cleansing process of gold plated jewelry, you must know about types of gold jewelry.

Types of Gold Jewelry

Solid gold

Solid gold can be described as pure, 24-karat gold that is soft and can be easily scratched. To prevent this, it is mixed with other metals or alloys that make it 18-karat, 14-karat, or 10-karat gold. Doing this increases its durability and hardness.

Gold-filled

A solid coating of gold is mechanically connected to a base of sterling silver or some other base metal in gold-filled jewelry. Such jewelry comes with higher durability and can be worn every day for up to 30 days.

Gold plated

Among the world of gold, this is the least expensive gold jewelry that comes with a thin layer of gold adhered to a metal such as copper or silver. Gold-plated jewelry is the trendiest one. However, it is not intended to last for a longer duration, as it gets damaged and rubs after specific use.

How Often Should You Clean Gold-Plated Jewelry?

Consider cleaning it after each use to remove any sweat or dust. Make sure it is wiped down with a damp cotton ball or microfiber cloth. It might require more cleansing efforts if your gold-plated jewelry has been exposed to sulfur compounds, chlorine, acids, and alcohol.

Tool Kit

• A small towel, e.g., Turkish towel
• A microfiber lens cloth
• A soft-bristled toothbrush
• A small bottle filled with gentle and chemical-free liquid soap
• Small bowl
• Lukewarm water

The Cleansing Procedure

1. If your 18k gold plated jewelry needs a slight polish, then grab a microfiber lens cloth and give it a gentle rub in a circular motion. This way, it will help to get rid of smudges and fingerprints. You can also clean it thoroughly with a soft-bristled toothbrush, avoiding debris accumulated beneath stones or on jump rings. Most of the jewelry gets gunky when different parts are rubbed together. So, in this case, a toothbrush is a perfect fit for getting into nooks and crannies.
2. If it needs a deep clean, mix lukewarm water with gentle and chemical-free liquid soap. Use it with a toothbrush to scrub the jewelry out of any dirt. Moreover, you can also replace the soap with seltzer water.

Rinse with clean water and dry it thoroughly with a towel. When the jewelry is left wet, dark spots appear on it. Consider using the Turkish towel that fits perfectly into the tighter spaces to dry nicely. For extra care, put this jewelry in a warm place for 10 minutes. In summer, put it on a sunny spot, and in winter, put it near the stove fireplace.<.p>

1. Never consider trying any of the chemical cleaners and polishing cloths. Most of the chemical cleaners react with the plating and lead to corrosion. On the other hand, polishing cloth dulls the shine of the jewelry turning into matte finishes. So, do not waste your money and time on chemical cleansers and polishing clothes.

How to Maintain Them?

1. Give your jewelry an occasional dusting with the help of a microfiber lens cloth. In this way, it will keep the dust away. This method fits perfectly for the piece of jewelry that you do not wear often.
2. Look for an ideal jewelry stand and hang it to prevent tangling. When you put your jewelry on the stand, you will notice it quite often, so you will not forget that you have it.
3. Do consider putting jewelry in the dust bags, especially when you are traveling. This method prevents pieces from scuffing each other or scratching off the plating.
4. Chemicals are not friends with your gold-plated jewelry. So, do consider taking it off before showering, swimming, or washing your hands. The best way to implement this method is by keeping a jewelry dish near your sink, so you don't lose any piece of jewelry.
5. Oil and sweat can easily react with jewelry and lead to faster tarnishing. Take it off before hitting the gym, and do not put your jewelry on while applying lotion or perfume.

Thus, above was everything regarding how and when to clean your gold-plated jewelry. Jewelry completes your outfit, and hence, it is necessary to maintain its elegance. Clean your jewelry with the help of the above easy and practical tips to make it look new forever.