How To Clean Gold Plated Jewelry

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How to clean gold-plated jewelry is a question that has been asked several times. Gold plating gives you a lot more bang for your buck.

Unfortunately, that means that it needs to be cleaned regularly. You can find many methods online or at your local grocery store. some of them work well for cleaning gold-plated jewelry.

Just be sure to choose one that works best with the type of metal you have! Check out the following methods to clean your gold-plated jewelry.

What Is Gold-plated Jewelry, And Why Does It Need To Be Cleaned?

Gold-plated jewelry comprises a solid gold layer that is electroplated on top of base metal. Gold-plated items are usually more affordable but are not meant to be permanent.

The gold plating can either be thick, last longer but won’t look as real. This makes them affordable but doesn’t last as long. This type of jewelry should be cleaned regularly to maintain its shine and luster.

What Materials Will I need?

To clean gold-plated jewelry, you will need a few simple items found around the home: nylon toothbrush, baking soda, white vinegar, liquid dish soap or jewelry cleaner, and a lint-free cloth.

How Do I Clean My Gold-plated Jewelry?

First, brush your gold-plated item with the toothbrush to remove any dirt. If you notice any black spots that won’t come off with the toothbrush. Mix a few drops of dish soap with baking soda and water to create a paste.

Apply the paste to the surface of the gold-plated item and scrub with the toothbrush as needed. Rinse off with warm water and pat dry with a lint-free cloth. Finally, spray on an even coating of your favorite jewelry cleaner and wipe clean to polish the gold plating.

how to clean gold plated jewelry
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How To Clean Gold-plated Jewelry With a Toothbrush

If your gold-plated jewelry has become dull or tarnished, you can use a toothbrush to clean it. This is the cheapest and easiest method for cleaning gold-plated jewelry. You can purchase a new toothbrush.

Certain types of toothpaste contain micro-abrasive particles. They can help remove tarnish from gold-plated jewelry. You should choose a medium or dark toothpaste that contains baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. (the ingredients may be listed on the back of the tube)

Place a small amount of toothpaste onto your clean, dry toothbrush. Use only enough to cover the bristles, but not so much that it will spill out onto your clothing.

Apply the toothpaste to the gold-plated jewelry and begin brushing in a circular motion for 30 seconds. Rinse with warm water until all the residues have been removed. Dry thoroughly with a clean, soft cloth. This also works for cleaning gold plated teeth.

How To Clean Gold-plated Jewelry With Baking Soda

Ensure that the gold plating covers most jewelry to avoid exposing yourself to harmful chemicals or metals. Another effective method for cleaning your gold-plated jewelry is to use baking soda. This actually works great for cleaning gold chains as well.

This method works especially well if the gold plating on your jewelry has worn away in some areas, exposing the base metal. You can purchase baking soda at a grocery store or large retail outlet for a few dollars.

Mix a small amount of water with some baking soda in the palm of your hand to form a paste. Use just enough water to cover the surface of the jewelry, but not so much that it will spill over onto your clothing.

Apply the paste to the gold-plated jewelry and begin rubbing in a circular motion for 30 seconds. Rinse with warm water until all residues have been removed from the jewelry. Dry thoroughly with a clean, soft cloth.

How To Clean Gold-plated Jewelry With Vinegar

Another method you can clean your gold-plated jewelry is to use white vinegar. You can purchase a bottle of white vinegar for just a few dollars at the grocery store or large retail outlet.

Mix equal water and white vinegar parts in a small bowl to form a solution, then place your gold-plated jewelry into the bowl. Allow it to soak overnight so that the mixture can break down any tarnish and grime that might be on it.

Remove the gold-plated jewelry from the vinegar mixture and gently rub it clean with a soft, dry cloth. Rinse with warm water and pat dry before wearing your jewelry again.

how to clean gold plated jewelry
Image credit:pixabay.com

How To Clean Gold-plated Jewelry With a Jeweler’s Cleaner

If you want an easier method for cleaning your gold-plated jewelry, you can purchase a jeweler’s cleaner at the grocery store or large retail outlet. Many jeweler’s cleaners are available on the market, but some are specifically designed to clean jewelry with stones.

Read the instructions carefully before using any jeweler’s cleaner. Most bottles will state whether they are safe for pearls, diamonds, precious metals, earrings, rings, etc. Always refer to the instructions (and never assume) before using any jeweler’s cleaner.

Apply the jeweler’s cleaner to your gold-plated jewelry and begin rubbing in a circular motion with a soft cloth for about one minute. Rinse the jewelry with warm water and pat dry with a clean cloth.

How To Save Money When Cleaning Gold-plated Jewelry

By using the above methods, you can easily achieve sparkling results from your gold-plated jewelry without having to pay for expensive jeweler’s cleaner or professional services. Cleaning your gold-plated jewelry regularly will help maintain its shine and luster, which will save you money in the long term.

It is important to clean your gold-plated jewelry regularly to maintain its shine and luster. You can use several methods to clean gold-plated jewelry, including a toothbrush, baking soda, vinegar, or a jeweler’s cleaner.

Risks Associated With Cleaning My Jewelry

There are many risks associated with cleaning gold-plated jewelry. Jewelry encrusted with gems, stones, diamonds, etc., should never be cleaned in common cleaners or household items. Products like dish soap and toothpaste can strip off the finish of any type of metal (including 24K gold).

There are several products on the market that you can use to clean your jewelry, such as cleaners and polishing cloths. Products specifically made for cleaning jewelry come in various strengths and formulas, so follow the directions carefully.

Make sure you work in a well-ventilated area when using any cleaning product.

Conclusion

Cleaning your gold-plated jewelry is a great way to keep it looking shiny and new. By using a designated cleaner or polishing cloth, you can extend the life of your gold plating and prevent any damage to surrounding stones.