How to clean your gold jewellery at home

Gold jewellery is a valuable and timeless asset. Whether it’s 18 carat, 10 carat or gold plated, gold jewellery can be the perfect accessory to any outfit or occasion. However, over time, gold jewellery can lose its shine and sparkle due to dirt, dust, oils and tarnish.

If you want to clean your gold jewellery in order to sell it, or simply wish to enhance its appearance, the good news is you don't need to spend a lot of money or time to restore your gold to its original glory.

How to clean gold jewellery UK

In this article we will explore some different methods for cleaning your gold jewellery at home using regular products you probably have around the house.

How to clean oxidised gold jewellery

Oxidised gold jewellery is gold that has developed a tarnished or discoloured appearance due to exposure to air and moisture, such as sweat and oils. To clean oxidised jewellery, you can use a few simple household items to restore its shine. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you clean your oxidised gold safely:

1. Prepare a small bowl of warm water, a soft-bristle toothbrush, some mild dish soap and a lint-free cloth.
2. Mix the warm water and dish soap together.
3. Soak the gold jewellery for 10-15 minutes.
4. Gently clean oxidised areas with toothbrush.
5. Rinse thoroughly under running water and dry with lint-free cloth.
6. Store safely in separate compartments.

How to clean 24 carat gold jewellery

24 carat gold jewellery is the softest and purest form of gold but – like all gold - can lose its shine over time. To clean 24 carat gold, follow these simple steps:

1. Prepare a mild dish soap solution. This is the gentlest way to clean gold without damaging it. To make the solution, add a few drops of dish soap to a bowl of warm water and stir well.
2. Soak the gold in the solution for approximately 15 minutes. Gently clean the gold with a soft cloth or a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove any dirt or grime.
3. Rinse the gold under running water and dry it with a soft cloth.
4. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or chemicals that may harm the gold.

How to clean gold jewellery with diamonds

To clean gold jewellery with diamonds, follow these steps:

1. Fill a small bowl with warm water and add a few drops of mild dish soap. Stir well to make a soapy solution.
2. Place the jewellery in the bowl and let it soak for approximately 20 minutes. This will help loosen any dirt or grime on the surface and in the crevices.
3. If the jewellery is still dirty, gently scrub it with a soft-bristled toothbrush or an eyebrow brush. Be careful not to scratch the gold or the diamonds.
4. Rinse the jewellery with running water and pat it dry with a soft cloth. You can also use a jewellery polishing cloth to restore the shine of the gold and diamonds.

For intricate designs or precious stones, we would recommend taking your gold jewellery to a professional jeweller for a deep clean with appropriate solutions.

How to clean gold jewellery with bicarbonate of soda

Bicarbonate of soda, also known as baking soda, is a common household ingredient that can help remove dirt and grime from your gold jewellery. Here's how to use it:

1. Fill a small bowl with warm water and add a teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda.
2. Place your gold jewellery in the solution and let it soak for 15 minutes.
3. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub any stubborn spots or crevices.
4. Rinse your jewellery under running water and dry it with a soft cloth.

How to clean gold jewellery with coke

Coke, or cola, is not only a drink, but also a handy cleaning agent for your gold jewellery. The acidity of coke can help dissolve tarnish and restore the shine of your gold jewellery. Here's how to use it:

1. Pour some coke into a small glass or bowl.
2. Place your gold jewellery in the coke and let it soak for about 10 minutes.
3. Use a soft cloth to wipe off any residue or grime from your jewellery.
4. Rinse your jewellery with running water and dry it with another soft cloth.

How to clean gold plated jewellery

Gold plated jewellery is made of a base metal that is covered with a thin layer of gold. To clean gold coated jewellery, you need to be extra careful not to damage the gold layer. Here's how to do it:

1. Fill a small bowl with lukewarm water and add a few drops of mild dish soap.
2. Place your gold coated jewellery in the solution and let it soak for 5 minutes.
3. Use a soft cloth to gently wipe off any dirt or residue from your jewellery.
4. Rinse your jewellery with clean water and dry it with another soft cloth.

Does toothpaste clean gold?

Toothpaste is often recommended as a quick and easy way to clean gold jewellery, but it is not advisable to use it regularly. Toothpaste can be abrasive and scratch the surface of your gold jewellery, especially if it contains whitening agents. If you want to use toothpaste occasionally for a quick polish, here's the best method:

1. Apply a small amount of toothpaste on a soft cloth or cotton swab.
2. Rub the toothpaste gently on your gold jewellery in circular motions.
3. Rinse your jewellery with clean water and dry it with another soft cloth.

Final thoughts

We hope this article has provided some useful tips on how to clean your gold jewellery at home using simple and safe methods. Remember to store your gold jewellery separately in a dry and cool place, away from direct sunlight and other heat sources. You can also use a polishing cloth to give your jewellery a regular wipe down and maintain its shine and sparkle for years to come.

If you are looking to sell your gold jewellery, discover the best place to sell your gold online by taking a look at the Sell Jewellery section of our website.