Over time, all necklaces will get dirty. The moisture, oxygen in the air, the skin’s natural oils, and acids react with the metals, gems, and pearls, causing them to discolor and tarnish. High humidity, sunlight, lotions, and perfumes can also lead to discoloration.
Whether it’s Sweat, skin acidity, pollution, or cosmetics can react with jewelry and form a layer of sulfur-based tarnish. The speed of discoloration and how it will look over time depend on the necklace material, such as gold, platinum, silver, or copper.
Fortunately, it is possible to clean a necklace chain, regardless of its material, to restore its original shine – however, regular cleaning is necessary.
The cleaning method depends on the metal and gemstones from which the necklace is made. For example, pearls can dissolve entirely in vinegar, and water could destroy the glue holding gems in place. Lastly, If your jewelry has loose stones, do not clean them, instead take them to a jeweler for a professional cleaning.
If you’re wondering how to wash necklaces at home, it’s important to use the right techniques and products based on the material. Once you identify the materials that make up your necklace, follow this list of homemade tips for cleaning necklace chains to remove tarnishes and discoloration quickly and easily.
What You Will Learn
How to Clean Gold and Platinum
Gold and platinum do not tarnish but can accumulate dirt and grime. Cleaning platinum and gold necklaces is easy. Simply soak your chain in soap and water (preferably warm water) for 30 minutes to loosen up the dirt on the metal and between the links in the necklace chain. Then, gently rub your jewelry with a soft cloth or microfiber cloth.
Over time, your platinum and gold necklace might develop a patina that dulls the shine. This is not due to dirt or tarnish but is the result of tiny scratches accumulating over time. If you want this dull patina removed, take your necklace to a jeweler and have it professionally polished.
How to Clean Silver
The silver chains in your necklace will react with the sulfur and oxygen in the atmosphere to form silver sulfide. This sulfur layer on the surface of silver chain necklaces is called tarnish, giving the necklace a dull, blackened appearance.
Line a heat-proof pot or bowl with aluminum foil to clean silver necklaces. Fill the bowl with boiling hot water, add two teaspoons of kosher salt and ¼ cup of baking soda, and mix well. You will see them begin to react and bubble in the water. Put your silver necklaces in the water and let them sit for five minutes.
Carefully remove the necklaces and lay them on an absorbent cloth or paper towel to dry. When dry, use a polishing cloth to gently rub the silver necklace for an extra shine.
How to Clean Gems
The gems on your necklaces are easier to clean than the metals. Just put a few drops of dish soap on the gemstone and rub the soap into the dirty areas (a cotton swab can gently scrub and spread the dish soap). If there is a heavy grime build-up, you can soak the necklace in warm water to loosen any stubborn dirt.
Use a soft toothbrush and spread your necklace on a cloth or paper towel to gently scrub the gems. Once you feel the necklace is clean, rinse with clean water and let it air dry.
Some gems require extra care, like the pearl. To clean a pearl necklace:
If you are cleaning costume jewelry or a necklace with costume gems, use as little water as possible, and do not soak the necklace. Excess water can get under the costume jewelry gems and break down the glue that holds them in place.
Suggested Read: How to Clean Pearl and Opal Jewelry?
Insure Your Necklaces with BriteCo™
If your necklace chains lose their brightness, it may be a sign that you need to clean your pieces. We recommend that you clean your jewelry regularly. However, you must identify the materials to ensure you can safely clean them and have the correct cleaning solution.
If you haven’t worn a piece in ages or need to clean your heirloom necklaces before a wedding, regularly cleaning them will prolong their shine and protect them from daily wear and tear. Make sure these beloved pieces and all your jewelry are insured and protected on your special day with wedding insurance from BriteCo™.
For as little as $125.95, you can have up to $2 million in general liability insurance to protect your guests, venue, and jewelry from mishaps and accidents. For as little as $359.83, you can have protection against postponement or cancellation.
Check out BriteCo’s easy-to-use website and sign up for a policy today. On your special day, you can have peace of mind knowing your jewelry is covered by BriteCo.
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