Whether you wear jewelry every day or only for special occasions, keeping it clean helps maintain its luster. While all precious metals like gold, silver, and platinum have different properties, some pieces may contain a combination of other metals which can tarnish over time. Fortunately, there are simple cleaning processes you can use to help your items look their best.

How to Clean Fine Metal Jewelry

1. Soak It

Most valuables will feature some composition of other metals, called alloys, like copper, silver, or nickel. These metals can tarnish and acquire dirt and oils over time, but they can be cleaned by soaking them in warm water with a few drops of dish soap or a few drops of laundry detergent without softener. Allow your ring, necklace, or another piece to soak for 20 to 30 minutes. You can also purchase jewelry cleaning cloths that are specifically made for removing tarnish. If you rub the cloth against the metal before going through the soaking process then your jewelry pieces will shine even more!

2. Scrub & Dry

After your pieces have soaked, gently scrub away any lingering grime with a soft-bristled brush, like a baby toothbrush. Be careful when handling gold, as it's a soft metal that can easily scratch. Once the spots are gone, rinse the item and use a hair dryer to blast all the water spots and dry thoroughly. If you don't have time for that then a soft microfiber towel will do, but beware of lint and debris when drying with anything other than air.  

3. Polish

While pure gold and platinum are resistant to tarnishing, other metals like silver, or certain alloys in gold can tarnish over time. If any tarnished spots remain after washing, use a jewelry polishing cloth to gently slough them away. Avoid using powders and scrubs as they can leave particles that will scratch the metal. 

If you have fine jewelry, keeping your valuables clean will help them maintain their lasting quality. You'll enjoy free in-store cleanings when you purchase from Nelson Estate Jewelers in Mesa, AZ. This retailer offers custom and upcycled pieces, as well as on-site design services. Their team will also accept unused or unwanted jewelry for a product trade or fair cash offer. View their inventory online, or call (480) 459-9867 to ask about a specific piece.