Jewelry are ornaments such as necklaces, rings, or bracelets made from or contain jewels and precious metals. They add sophistication to any outfit. Getting the best from them involves good care it, regardless of the material they are made from.
Here are tips in caring for different types of jewelry.
GOLD
Gold doesn’t tarnish, but it can be dirtied or dulled by skin oils and other substances.
Mix a squeeze of mild dish detergent with warm water in a bowl. Put the item into the soap mixture and let sit for a few minutes. Use a soft toothbrush to gently scrub it. Remove item from soapy water, rinse it and dry thoroughly with a soft polishing cloth.
CUBIC ZIRCONIA
A cotton or flannel cloth can be used to wipe the item clean. Also, a special jewelry polishing cloth is perfect too. Use straight, back and forth strokes when cleaning. Do not rub in a circular motion as that can scratch its surface. Then use a cleaning solution to remove grime and dirt.
Just like a diamond, a cubic zirconia can be cleaned with warm water and mild soap. Use a soft, cosmetic applicator to reach crevices.
Also, you can steam the item using teakettle or any other method that produces steam. Hold it directly over the steam stream to loosen dirt. Wear gloves or use tongs to avoid burns. Once steamed, use your polishing cloth to dry it.
Store item in an airtight, resealable plastic bag or in a lined jewelry box, away from the outside air.
STERLING SILVER
Clean sterling silver jewelry with a soft 100% cotton or flannel cloth or a soft bristle brush. Gently rub off any excess makeup. Silver is a very soft metal so don’t rub too briskly to avoid scratches.
Don’t use silver dips for removing oxidation from silver jewelry as it will leave microscopic pits causing it to darken faster.
PEARLS
Pearls need special care. They should be wiped after each use as skin oils can damage them. Never store pearls in a jewelry box next to other jewelry as they can scratch the pearls.
Use little olive oil when cleaning to help maintain pearl’s luster; do not use ultrasonic cleansers, dish or wash detergents, bleaches, baking soda, ammonia based cleansers, toothbrushes or any other abrasive materials to clean pearls. Always take off pearls before using any cosmetics, hair spray, or perfume. Avoid heat and dry air as both can cause pearls to turn brown, dry out, and crack.
RHODIUM PLATED SILVER
Clean rhodium plated silver with warm water and a mild liquid soap. Rinse and dry with a soft polishing cloth immediately to avoid mineral residue from the water.
Never use any chemicals, toothpaste or toothbrush or abrasives on rhodium items; avoid using polishing cloths that are intended for use on uncoated silver or for gold jewelry. Don’t place in an ultrasonic cleaner.
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