Jewelry is more than just an accessory; it’s an investment and a personal statement. Over time, even the most stunning pieces can lose their sparkle due to dirt, oils, and exposure to environmental elements. Proper maintenance and cleaning can help preserve their beauty for years to come. Moijey Fine Jewelry & Diamonds offers some expert advice on how to clean and care for your jewelry at home.

Daniel Moijueh, founder of Moijey Fine Jewelry & Diamonds, often emphasizes the importance of proper jewelry care. Many customers ask how they can safely clean their jewelry at home without causing any damage. Here's a helpful guide, curated by the experts at Moijey Fine Jewelry, to keep your precious items looking pristine.

Safe Home Cleaning Methods for All Jewelry Types

Regardless of the type of jewelry you own, there are general steps that work well across most materials:

1. Warm, Soapy Water: Use a mild dish soap, such as blue Dawn, and warm water to gently clean your jewelry. This solution works well for gold, silver, and even delicate gemstones like pearls.
2. Soft Toothbrush: A soft-bristle toothbrush, similar to those given by dentists, is ideal for removing dirt in hard-to-reach areas without scratching the surface.
3. Towel in the Sink: When cleaning your jewelry over a sink, place a towel in the basin to catch any gemstones that might dislodge. This provides an extra layer of protection.
4. Gentle Drying: After cleaning, dry your jewelry with a soft, lint-free cloth. This helps preserve the shine without causing scratches. Never use paper towels, as they can scratch metals like gold, silver, and platinum.
5. For Pearls: Lay your pearls flat on a towel to dry. Wearing wet pearls can stretch the string, leading to breakage. Pearls should be restrung annually to maintain their integrity.
6. Daily Maintenance: Wipe your jewelry with a clean, soft cloth to remove oils and dust after wearing. This small step can go a long way in keeping them sparkling.

Special Considerations for Silver and Gemstones

Silver requires extra care, as common myths about cleaning it—like using toothpaste—can do more harm than good. Toothpaste is too abrasive for silver and can lead to scratches, accelerating tarnishing. Instead, opt for silver polishing cloths and tarnish-resistant storage bags.

For gemstones, be mindful of substances like lotions, perfumes, and sprays. These products can damage delicate stones, particularly organic ones like pearls and amber.

Professional Cleaning Methods

While many cleaning methods are safe to do at home, some techniques require professional equipment and expertise:

• Ultrasonic Cleaning: This method uses heated chemicals and vibrations to clean jewelry. However, it can be harmful to certain stones like pearls, amber, fracture-filled emeralds, and heat-treated sapphires. Jewelry with loose settings is also at risk of damage during this process.

• Steam Cleaning: This method uses jets of steam to remove dirt and restore shine. Like ultrasonic cleaning, it’s not suitable for loose settings, as stones can dislodge and get damaged.

Both cleaning methods should be done by a professional jeweler, who can ensure the safety of your jewelry.

When to Remove Jewelry 

To prolong the life of your jewelry, it’s crucial to know when to take it off:

• Swimming: The chemicals in pools, especially chlorine, can discolor gold and silver. The copper and nickel alloys in these metals are particularly vulnerable to damage.

• Household Cleaning: Many cleaning products contain chlorine or bleach, which can harm your jewelry in the same way pool chemicals do.

• Cosmetics: Lotions, perfumes, and hair sprays can damage gemstones and cause buildup on your jewelry, dulling its appearance.

Taking a few simple precautions can make a significant difference in the longevity of your favorite pieces.

Keeping your jewelry clean and well-maintained is essential for preserving its brilliance. While home cleaning methods are effective, be mindful of your jewelry’s unique properties, and consult professionals for more delicate or valuable pieces. 

At Moijey Fine Jewelry & Diamonds, we’re always here to offer advice or professional cleaning services to help keep your treasures in perfect condition. By following these expert tips, you can ensure your jewelry remains as dazzling as the day you first wore it.