Lotion, soap and everyday dirt dull the shine of jewellery over time. A gentle clean every few weeks keeps most pieces looking their best.
A simple routine
- Close the sink drain or work over a bowl, so nothing can be lost.
- Soak gold, platinum and hard stones such as diamonds for a few minutes in warm water with a drop of mild washing-up liquid.
- Brush gently with a soft, clean toothbrush, especially behind the stone where dirt collects.
- Rinse in clean warm water and pat dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.
What to avoid
- Toothpaste, baking soda and household cleaners: they can scratch metal and damage some stones.
- Chlorine and pool water, which can harm gold alloys over time.
- Home ultrasonic cleaners for pearls, opals, emeralds and treated stones.
Pieces that need extra care
Wipe pearls with a soft, slightly damp cloth after wearing and let them dry flat. Polish silver with a silver cloth to remove tarnish. If you are not sure what a stone is or whether it has been treated, ask your jeweller before you clean it, and bring your pieces in once a year so the settings can be checked.