Caring for your engagement ring or favorite necklace doesn’t need to be complicated. But it is important to use the correct cleaning method depending on whether you are trying to polish up stone settings or precious metals. There are numerous methods for maintaining fine jewelry and other delicate items, each with a specific purpose depending on the material. Here’s a look at three ways to restore the luster to any brooch, bauble, or bijouterie.
Ultrasonic cleaners work by permeating a water bath with ultrahigh-frequency sound waves that loosen dirt and grime from small, delicate objects. In addition to jewelry, ultrasonic devices are appropriate for everything from eyeglasses to dentures, razor blades, collectible coins, and more. Some machines work better with a mild solution of dish soap and water. Just be aware that these gentle agitators are not appropriate for antique jewelry with unstable components or soft and porous stones, like pearls and opals.
Tarnish is a form of rust; you can’t remove it from silver and other metals by ultrasonic cleaning alone. For that, you need a polish to penetrate and lift unsightly stains from the surface. Cleaning gels and solutions take a little extra elbow grease, but get good results, especially when combined with a buffing rag.
For spot treating diamonds and other gemstones, a fine-tipped brush with thin bristles and a mild detergent makes it easy to reach every nook and cranny. Just remember that many cleaning agents can irritate sensitive skin, so be sure to rinse your jewelry thoroughly in warm water before sliding it back on your finger or around your neck.
