Deep Cleaning 101

Gold plating on sterling silver jewelry is an elegant and affordable way to add some sparkle to your jewelry collection. However, over time, gold plating can wear down, and your jewelry may lose its shine. To keep your gold plated sterling silver jewelry looking its best, you need to deep clean it regularly. In this post, we’ll guide you through the process of deep cleaning your gold plating sterling silver jewelry to restore its shine.

 

  1. Inspect your jewelry

Before you begin cleaning your gold plated sterling silver jewelry, inspect it for any damage, such as missing stones or scratches. If your jewelry is damaged, it’s best to take care of the repairs before cleaning.

 

  1. Gather your supplies

To deep clean your jewelry, you’ll need the following supplies:

  • Soft-bristled toothbrush
  • Warm water
  • Mild dish soap
  • Microfiber cloth
  • Jewelry polishing cloth
  • Bowl

 

  1. Make a cleaning solution

Mix warm water and mild dish soap in a bowl to create a cleaning solution. Avoid using hot water as it can cause damage to your jewelry. The dish soap will help remove any dirt, oils, or tarnish from your jewelry.

 

  1. Soak your jewelry

Place your jewelry in the cleaning solution and let it soak for 10-15 minutes. This will help loosen any dirt or tarnish that has accumulated on your jewelry.

 

  1. Clean your jewelry

After soaking your jewelry, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub the metal parts of the jewelry. Be gentle when scrubbing, as too much force can cause scratches or damage to your jewelry. Focus on any areas that have accumulated dirt or tarnish. Rinse your jewelry under running water to remove any soap residue. Be extremely gentle on the stones.

 

  1. Dry your jewelry

After rinsing your jewelry, use a microfiber cloth to pat it dry gently. Avoid rubbing your jewelry as it can cause scratches or damage. If you have any intricate or hard-to-reach areas, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove any excess water.

 

  1. Polish your jewelry

Finally, use a jewelry polishing cloth to restore the shine to your gold plated sterling silver jewelry. Gently rub your jewelry with the polishing cloth, focusing on any areas that need extra attention. Be careful not to rub too hard as it can cause damage to your jewelry.

 

  1. Store your jewelry properly

After deep cleaning your gold plating sterling silver jewelry, it’s important to store it properly to prevent damage. Keep your jewelry in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight. Store it in a jewelry box or pouch to prevent scratches and tarnish.

 

In conclusion, deep cleaning your gold plated sterling silver jewelry is an essential part of maintaining its shine and beauty. With the right supplies and techniques, you can restore your jewelry to its former glory. Remember to inspect your jewelry for any damage, use a mild cleaning solution, and be gentle during the cleaning process. With these tips, your gold plating sterling silver jewelry will continue to shine for years to come.