How to Clean Gold Plated Jewellery

Co-authored by Nicole Wegman

Last Updated: August 20, 2023

Gold plated jewelry is trendy in the fashion house because of its practicality and the reason that they are available in numerous designs and styles. Since they are easily affordable, many choose gold plated jewelry to keep up with the fast-changing fashion. Gold plating is a process where a thin layer of gold is placed on other metal to give the gold jewelry look. Since it is a layer, this will get tarnished with time. Hence you have to take good care of gold plated jewelry. When you want to clean them, you cannot clean them the way you clean gold jewelry because of its delicacy. There are great options for keeping your jewelry sparkling. It is recommended using once every 1-2 weeks. See below several methods to clean and take care of your gold plated jewelry exclusively.

Method 1

Method 1 of 5:

Using Cotton Balls

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After use, clean your jewelry using a cotton ball to remove dirt and dust. Gently wipe down the posts of your earrings, pretty pendants, beautiful bangles, and the chains.
Dampen cotton balls in plain water and squeeze the water completely. Now clean your jewelry and allow it for air drying.

Method 2

Method 2 of 5:

Using Cotton Swabs

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If your jewelry has fancy and complex designs, remove any soil from small clefts using cotton swabs.
On gold plated jewelry, sometimes gemstones will be simply glued. Hence soaking this in water can loosen the glue. Make a solution by mixing a few drops of mild dishwashing liquid and water. Dip the cotton swab in the solution and clean gently. Rinse and dry the ornaments.

Method 3

Method 3 of 5:

Using Soft Cloth or a Jewelry Cloth

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1
Use the softest cloth that you find. You can use the one used to clean glasses or camera lenses. Clean the surfaces by gently rubbing the jewelry with a soft cloth. Do not apply too much pressure or scrub too much.
- A microfiber cloth or a jeweler’s cloth should also do the trick.
- A velvety or silky cloth can also be used.

Method 4

Method 4 of 5:

Using Warm Soapy Water

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1
Make soapy water using a soap that is not anti-bacterial. Take lukewarm water in a bowl and make soapy water using regular soap. Place the jewelry in soapy water for a few minutes. Take out the jewelry and gently scrub using a soft toothbrush. Stain the jewelry in plain lukewarm water to rinse off the soapy water. Dry the jewelry with a paper towel and wipe with a clean, soft cloth to restore shine.
- Always use a mild soap or a baby soap to make soapy water.
2
Make soapy water using a cleaning solution. Take lukewarm water in a bowl, add a few drops of mild dish soap or mild jewelry cleaning solution. Soak the jewelry for a couple of minutes to loosen dirt. Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and gently scrub in tight places if required. Then, rinse the jewelry with plain water. Dry the jewelry and wipe it with a soft cloth.
- Do not use harsh jewelry cleaners or polishing liquids.
- Clean only one jewelry at a time to avoid scratches.

Method 5

Method 5 of 5:

Using Damp Soft Cloth

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1
Use a damp soft cloth to remove body oils and soils. Take a soft cloth and dampen it with mild soap water. Gently wipe any smudges or blemishes on the jewelry. Then, rinse with a cloth dampened in plain water. Pat dry the jewelry using a soft dry cloth.
- Do not wipe harshly with a wet cloth as it may damage gold polish.

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Tips

It is not advisable to use baking soda to clean fine jewelry.

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Do not spray perfume, hair sprays, or any other sprays after wearing your jewelry. The direct interaction of chemicals in the spray may harm your jewelry. Wear them after you have sprayed them.

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After applying any lotion or cream, wait for it to be dried. Later wear your necklace, bangles, rings, or any other gold plated jewelry.

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Warnings

Do not clean the jewelry harshly as they may damage and remove the gold coating. Always gently wipe while cleaning.

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Do not use cleaning agents that are abrasive since they could damage your jewels.

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Do not expose your jewelry to too much heat or moisture or chemicals. Wear them occasionally. Clean and keep them safely after use.

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How to Clean Gold Plated Jewellery

Steps

Using Cotton Balls

Using Cotton Swabs

Using Soft Cloth or a Jewelry Cloth

Using Warm Soapy Water

Using Damp Soft Cloth

Expert Q&A

Tips

Warnings

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