Caring for your Gold and other Jewelry
Perhaps you have recently purchased or been given a beautiful new diamond necklace, a gold ring, or a pair of sterling silver earrings. You will want to care for your precious jewelry properly. If you are one of those who has a tangle of chains, rings, earrings and other things all jumbled together in a bag it may be time to sort them out and give them the care they deserve.
A big concern for many people who are enjoying the pleasure of collecting or selling estate jewelry is concern for the age of a particular piece, whether it be costume jewelry or finest antique or vintage quality.
For estate jewelry and other family heirloom type jewelry the cleaning and storing rules are the same as for any other jewelry item. If you are not sure what a particular is made from (e.g. which metal, what stones) take it to a jeweler and ask, or simply treat with gentle respect.
Check all jewelry, but especially estate jewelry or pieces that have been mistreated, for any loose stones, and damaged clasps. If you feel they are worth it get them repaired.
Cleaning all Jewelry types
It doesn’t matter whether your jewelry piece is the finest 18K gold, the highest quality platinum, or cheap old plated copper or brass. The best thing for every piece is to think soft and gentle. A fine soft cloth is best for all types of jewelry and if necessary a very soft toothbrush.
For your most precious gold and other jewelry items a professional cleaning every now and then could well be worth the cost for peace of mind. Emeralds in particular need professional care and it is not advisable to use any commercial cleaning solutions on them.
The big No –No’s
Never use any solution that contains ammonia, vinegar, acids, or alcohol on any piece of jewelry. The same applies to soap and glass cleaners. Soap will leave a residue on gold and other precious metals and glass cleaner will do the same to your diamonds and other gems. No chlorine – remove jewelry before swimming.
Because so many household cleaners contain some of the above products you should take off any jewelry before cleaning. If you find taking off your engagement or wedding band a pain every time you need to wash your hands simply use a very gentle soap-free cleanser instead. It will save not only your rings but your skin as well.
Jewelry cleaning products
There are some excellent cleaning products available for all kinds of jewelry. Some are especially designed for gold, others for diamonds and gems, and still others for sterling silver. If you are going to use these products make sure you know exactly what your jewelry piece is made of. Don’t use commercial dips on sterling silver jewelry that has been lacquered as it can get underneath the lacquer in parts where it may be wearing off and damage the whole piece. Play it safe and use a cloth.
Storage
Gold jewelry is best kept in boxes lined with satin or velvet. Keep all jewelry pieces separated so they don’t scratch each other. Chains should be laid flat or hung up to prevent tangling. At a pinch you can get away with wrapping each piece in tissue paper and storing in zip lock bags, but this is not ideal. Make sure all jewelry is kept dry – moisture will ruin any gem and nearly all precious metals.
