Best Ways to Store and Clean Jewelry by Michele Rolla
You probably have a go-to outfit that you exude confidence in when wearing. Do you have a special piece of jewelry that further elevates your final look? Are you storing and cleaning your special jewelry pieces properly?
Jewelry is very personal. Many times, one piece of jewelry holds a special meaning or memory. Whether that memory is attached to a five-dollar ring or a million-dollar bejeweled necklace, you want to take proper care of those precious mementos.
Believe it or not, you don’t have to run to a jeweler to clean your keepsakes. We have gathered the best tips for you to clean and store your favorite pieces of gold, silver, gemstones, and more.
Prevention
As with so many other things in life, prevention is key. A few simple steps will keep your beautiful collection organized and help prevent early tarnishing.
- Store all pieces in a clean and dry environment at room temperature
- Separate by metal
- Fine jewelry should be in a dark and secure location
- Fine jewelry pieces should not touch each other
Daily life dirties our jewelry. It can be from the dirt and oils from our bodies. The environment will also dirty your items. Let’s review easy ways to clean your jewelry.
Tarnish Be Gone
Over time, metals tarnish. Here is a quick cleaning solution to rid you of all your tarnish troubles. Find a pan, aluminum foil, baking soda, salt, and a cup of hot water.
The chemical reaction between the ingredients cleans the tarnish. How scientific!
- Line a pan with aluminum foil
- Fill with a cup of hot or boiling water
- Add 2 tablespoons each of baking soda and table salt
- Soak one item at a time in the solution for 2-5 minutes
- Remove, being careful to avoid scratching against the foil
Voila! Your jewelry is now tarnish-free.
Shine Bright Gemstones
It is important to know upfront that not all gemstones can be soaked. For example, pearls are cleaned with a soft cloth, never soaked. If you are unsure, ask a professional.
Other gemstones that are not soft and porous can be soaked in warm soapy water and dried with a soft cloth. Avoid harsh detergents.
Costume Jewelry
Costume jewelry is treated similarly to gemstones. Use soapy water and a soft cloth. However, do not soak. Use a soft and soapy cloth to wipe clean.
After wiping away any dirt, use a soft dampened cloth to rinse clean. Pat dry.
Wear Proudly
Keep wearing your special pieces. They are meant to be worn! After each wear, store properly and keep your jewelry clean and looking brand new.
Are you ready for a new, one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry? Each Roni Downey piece is handcrafted, unique, and classic.
Shop now and find a new piece of jewelry for yourself or a loved one. Wear confidently. Create new memories.