Identify the jewelry type and material (gold, silver, plated, stainless steel, gemstones, pearls, costume jewelry)
Gather a soft lint-free cloth, mild dish soap, warm water, a soft toothbrush or microfiber cloth, and a bowl
Check for loose stones, cracks, or damaged settings before cleaning
Remove rings, bracelets, and necklaces to prevent soap residue buildup
For most gold, silver, and stainless steel:
Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water
Soak for 10–20 minutes
Gently brush with a soft toothbrush or wipe with a microfiber cloth
Rinse thoroughly with clean warm water
Dry completely with a soft lint-free cloth
For diamond and hard-stone jewelry:
Use mild dish soap and warm water
Brush gently around prongs and settings
Rinse and dry thoroughly
For pearls and opals:
Wipe with a slightly damp soft cloth after each wear
Clean with a minimal amount of mild soap solution only if necessary
Avoid soaking and avoid ultrasonic or steam cleaning
Dry with a soft cloth and store separately
For emeralds, opals, turquoise, and other porous or softer stones:
Use a damp soft cloth with minimal mild soap only if needed
Avoid soaking, harsh brushing, and prolonged water exposure
Rinse lightly (if applicable) and dry immediately
For gold-filled or plated jewelry:
Use mild soap and warm water briefly (short soak only)
Avoid vigorous brushing and harsh chemicals
Dry completely to prevent tarnish or lift
For costume jewelry, enamel, and fashion pieces:
Use a soft dry cloth for regular cleaning
For deeper cleaning, use a lightly damp cloth with mild soap, then dry thoroughly
Avoid soaking unless the piece is clearly safe for it
For tarnished silver:
Use a silver polishing cloth or silver cleaner made for jewelry
Follow product directions
Rinse and dry if the product instructs rinsing
Avoid these cleaners and methods:
Bleach, chlorine, and strong acids
Ultrasonic cleaners for pearls, opals, emeralds, turquoise, and most plated/costume jewelry
Steam cleaning for anything with glue, pearls, or porous stones
Abrasive pastes, baking soda, and harsh scouring pads
After cleaning:
Dry completely, including crevices and settings
Store in a dry place, preferably in separate soft pouches or compartments
Avoid storing in direct contact with other jewelry that can cause scratching
Clean regularly:
Wipe jewelry after wear to remove oils and residue
Do periodic deep cleaning based on how often you wear it
If the jewelry is valuable or has delicate stones:
Take it to a professional jeweler for cleaning and inspection