Amber jewelry is very beautiful, but it is also delicate and fragile. Over time they can become covered with sebum and dirt that make them dull. The methods described in this article allow you to restore them to their former glory without damaging them.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Wipe Amber with a Damp Cloth
Step 1. Prepare a basin of soapy water
Use warm water and add a few drops of liquid soap. Mix the solution just enough to mix the ingredients, but without creating too much foam.
Use a mild liquid soap, such as hand or dish soap. Avoid harsh detergents that can damage this material
Step 2. Get a soft, clean cloth
Microfiber or flannel are perfect fabrics. Dip it in the soapy water and squeeze it so it doesn't drip; the cloth must be wet but not soaked.
Step 3. Rub the jewel with the rag to remove any residue
Dry the amber immediately with another dry cloth.
If you are cleaning more than one piece, wash and dry each item separately; do not let the amber stay wet for a long time, otherwise it may become opaque
Step 4. Polish the jewelry with olive oil
In this way you not only remove the traces of grease, but polish the amber. Apply a small drop of oil to your hands and rub it into the amber. Dry it immediately with a soft, dry cloth.
If you don't have olive oil, you can use almond oil
Method 2 of 3: Clean the Amber Jewelry with a Silver Polishing Cloth
Step 1. Purchase a specific silver polishing cloth
You can find it in craft shops among the shelves dedicated to costume jewelery, or at a retailer of supplies for jewelers. Alternatively, buy it online. Choose a model that has both a dark and a light side. The light part is used to eliminate surface dirt and oxidation, the dark part is used to polish amber.
Step 2. Rub the jewelry with the light side of the polishing cloth
If the jewel contains silver elements, you should notice black smudges on the cloth. It is oxide and indicates that the jewel is being cleaned. Continue to scrub until there are no more black traces left on the cloth or until the amber looks clean.
Step 3. Polish the item with the dark side of the cloth
Rub it into the resin with quick circular motions. Continue until the jewelry is shiny, clean and shines like new.
Method 3 of 3: Clean an Amber Necklace with Soapy Water
Step 1. Be very careful with this method
There are many contradictory opinions regarding water and amber. Some jewelers suggest using soap and water to clean this material, while others strongly advise against it.
If the piece is particularly dirty and you want to try this technique, you should do a test on an inconspicuous point of the jewel or on a pearl that is in the back of the necklace
Step 2. Prepare two bowls of warm water
They should be large enough to hold the item you want to clean. One will be used to wash the amber, the other to rinse it.
Step 3. Add a few drops of mild liquid soap to one of the two containers
Stir to combine the ingredients, but not to the point of froth.
If you don't have liquid soap, you can use dish soap, but avoid harsh detergents like dishwasher detergents. If it's a substance you wouldn't get your hands on, don't use it
Step 4. Place the necklace in the basin of soapy water
Gently scrub it with your fingers to get rid of dust and grime.
- If there is dirt between the pearls, you can use a soft-bristled toothbrush to reach these spots. Just rub it over the crevices and notches until all the dust is gone. Apply gentle pressure and do not rub vigorously, otherwise you can scratch the amber.
- Do not jerk the beads so as not to break the string.
- Do not leave amber to soak for long periods. Excessive exposure to water, especially hot water, damages the material making it opaque.
Step 5. Rinse the necklace in water
Dip it into the bowl of clean water and move it around to get rid of excess soap.
Step 6. Dry the jewelry immediately with a soft cloth
You can use any soft fabric like microfiber or flannel. Again, remember not to pull the beads or "crumple" the necklace to avoid damaging it. Don't just take the amber out of the water and wait for it to dry on its own, or it will turn dull.
Step 7. Polish the piece with olive oil
Do not pour it directly on the necklace, but drop a few drops on the palm of your hand. Rub the amber between your hands to restore it to its original splendor. Remove excess oil with a soft cloth.
If you don't have olive oil, you can use another light one, such as almond oil
Advice
- If the amber jewelry is not visibly dirty, you can easily polish it with olive or almond oil to restore it to its former glory.
- To avoid the buildup of sebum, clean your jewelry after wearing it.
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Follow these rules to keep amber jewelry in top condition and to keep it clean for a long time:
- Don't bathe and don't go swimming while wearing them;
- Do not attend to housework while wearing amber jewelry (house cleaning, laundry and dish washing included);
- Keep the jewels in a fabric bag, separate from other precious objects;
- Spray the hairspray and perfume before wearing them;
- Do not expose amber to direct sunlight.
Warnings
- Do not use silver polish on amber jewelry, even if it contains silver elements.
- Amber is a soft material, so it is easily scratched. Remove all rings and bracelets before you start cleaning it.
- Do not use any harsh chemicals or cleaners, as this may damage the surface of the amber.
- Be careful when using soap and water. Do not leave the jewel to soak, as excess moisture makes the amber dull.
