The costume jewelry has cheaper stones and metals than those found in precious jewelry. However, many jewelry items are still useful, whether they have monetary or sentimental value. So it is very important to know how to clean them without damaging them. Less precious stones and metals are often less durable than those in more refined jewelry, which means you need to use more gentle cleaning methods.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Dry
The safest method to clean your jewelry is also the one that does not involve the use of liquids, since many detergents can leave residues or cause permanent damage.
Step 1. Find a workplace with good lighting
Staying in a dark room with a ceiling light can create shadow effects and you should avoid this. Look for a base with a lamp you can address or a clean counter in front of a window.
Step 2. Use a small dry baby toothbrush, or even a soft brush to gently clean the surface of the piece
This will remove any dirt encrusted on the surface.
Step 3. Hold a can of compressed air 3-5cm away from your bigotry and spray
This will loosen any dirt and dust that could be trapped in the crevices.
Step 4. Check the jewelry with a magnifying glass
Check to see if there is any remaining dirt left.
Step 5. Use a toothpick to remove dirt particles that you noticed with the magnifying glass
Avoid metal spikes as they can scratch glass beads or soft stones if they slip your hand.
Step 6. Polish the article with a soft, dry cloth
In this way you eliminate most of the fingerprints and stains, restoring some of its original splendor to the jewel.
Method 2 of 3: Delicate
If dirt still remains after performing dry cleaning, intensify the treatment with a mild detergent solution.
Step 1. Mix one part of soap with three parts of warm water in a small bowl or glass
Use a mild soap, as more harsh ones contain chemicals that can damage your jewelry.
Step 2. Dip a small, soft-bristled toothbrush into the soap and water solution
Alternatively, you can also use a cotton ball.
Step 3. Swipe the brush over the side of the glass or bowl to remove excess solution
You should use as little as possible.
Step 4. Gently brush the gems, pearls and metal of the jewelry with the toothbrush or swab
Apply light pressure to avoid loosening the glue or polish.
Step 5. Rinse the jewelry with warm water
Do this quickly, as water can damage cheap jewelry, so you don't have to soak it for long.
Step 6. Gently wipe off excess moisture with a soft, dry cloth
Step 7. Arrange the jewelry on a paper towel and finish drying it with a hair dryer
Set it cold, as heat can damage some types of jewelry.
Step 8. Finally, polish your jewelry with a soft, dry cloth
Method 3 of 3: Last Resource
If both of the above cleaning methods fail to completely remove residual dirt, switch to a stronger cleaner.
Step 1. Get acetone-free nail polish remover or mild cleanser
Always read the product label. Many are not suitable for costume jewelery because they contain chemicals such as alcohol or vinegar. Use the cleaner only when the label explicitly states that it is safe for this purpose.
Step 2. Pour a small amount of solvent or cleaner into a bowl or glass
Step 3. Soak a cotton ball, wetting it as little as possible
Step 4. Press the swab to the side of the beaker to remove excess solution
Step 5. Gently clean any gems, glass beads or metal elements
Avoid washing around areas where the gem is attached to its backing, since even a mild detergent can loosen the glue.
Step 6. Quickly wash the jewelry under lukewarm water
Step 7. Wipe off excess moisture with a soft, dry cloth
Step 8. Gently lay your jewelry on a paper towel and blow dry it
Set it cold, as heat can damage some types of jewelry.
Step 9. Polish the jewelry with a soft cloth
Step 10. Finished
Advice
- Avoid using water on jewelry that contain copper or metal alloys. Water reacts with copper and ruins it. Limit yourself to simple dry methods like the ones mentioned in this article.
- Never immerse the costume jewelry in a jewelry solution, even if it is safe for this purpose. This is especially important if the object contains glue, as many cleaners loosen the adhesive.
- Wear the jewelry last and take it off first. Avoid putting them in contact with perfume, hairspray, or other chemicals.
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Store costume jewelry in a dry place where other items will not scratch the surface Step 12 Keep them in a cool, dry place. Keep each item in its own separate compartment or soft cloth to prevent scratches.
