Gold doesn’t depreciate. So if you own any, you have already made a smart investment! But a major part of good investing is taking care of your assets. For this reason, it is wise to keep your gold bright, shiny, and clean. This is especially true for gold jewelry, since this type of gold sustains the most contact. If you have expensive gold jewelry, coins, or other valuables you would like to keep in good condition, continue reading to learn an easy and effective method for cleaning gold.
What You Will Need
To clean gold, you will need to gather a few specific supplies. You will need a large plastic bowl or container, some mild dish soap, polishing cloth, vegetable or coconut oil, a spoon, a dry cloth, and cotton swabs. Also, do not make the mistake of using baking soda in place of polish. Baking soda is too abrasive and can scratch gold. Harsh chemicals and ammonia will damage gold as well, so stay away from these substances. Keep in mind that your gold will require a slightly different cleaning approach if it has jewels embedded in it, such as rhinestones, rubies, diamonds, and pearls.
Here’s How to Get Started:
Fill your large plastic container or bowl with warm water.
Add a few drops of mild dish soap or detergent. Use your spoon to stir the water and make suds.
Working with one piece at a time, dunk your gold item into the soapy water and use your fingers or some cotton swabs to rub away dirt and oil.
Note: Do not immerse watches into water unless they are entirely water-proof. Even then, it may not be a good idea. Instead, dip a rag into the water and use it to wipe your gold clean.
Remove your item from the bowl and rinse it with clean warm water. Dry it thoroughly with a clean, dry cloth. Do not use tissue. It is too frail and will leave lint and debris all over your gold. You can also choose to air dry it overnight.
Once dry, use your polishing cloth to polish shine back into your gold. Polish in straight, even lines for a uniform glow.
Cleaning Gold With Embellishments
When it comes to cleaning embellishments in your gold pieces, like gems or pearls, you must use strict care. These are easily damaged, especially pearls. Do not use any harsh chemicals or abrasives, and avoid using too much force when cleaning. To clean gemstones and similar embellishments, use a dry cloth and a drop of vegetable or coconut oil.
