Gold jewelry remains timeless. Individuals know this metal will never go out of style, so they invest in classic pieces that can be handed down through the generations. However, the owner must keep the jewelry clean to protect its value. What do experts recommend when it comes time to clean gold jewelry? 

The Baking Soda Method

People turn to baking soda to clean many items in the home. This substance comes with mild alkali properties that dissolve grease and dirt. As baking soda is non-toxic, parents can safely use it around their children. However, this method should not be used for gold jewelry with gemstones, as baking soda can harm the stones.

Fort Worth gold and silver exchange will examine the gemstones to ensure they are secure before purchasing the jewelry. If any stones are loose, this reduces the value of the piece. Avoid this problem by choosing a different method of cleaning the gold jewelry. 

Boil two cups of water while preparing the other supplies. Take a glass baking dish and line the bottom of the dish with aluminum foil. The shiny side of the foil must face up. Lay the gold jewelry on top of the aluminum foil and coat it evenly with baking soda. If the item has a chain, ensure the chain is spread out and has no tangles. 

Pour the boiling water into the dish, ensuring it completely covers the item covered in baking soda. Allow the jewelry to soak for five to ten minutes. Don’t go over ten minutes, however, as doing so could loosen the gemstones. There is no need to stir the mixture, as the chemical reaction between the hot water and baking soda will occur automatically thanks to the aluminum foil. 

Using tongs, remove the jewelry from the solution. Run it under cold water for 45 seconds and use your fingers to clean any remaining solution off the piece. Put something under the jewelry, such as a sieve, to ensure the jewelry doesn’t go down the drain. Finish the cleaning process by drying the jewelry with a soft cloth and allow the piece to air dry for ten minutes. Always complete the cleaning process before you sell gold jewelry to ensure it looks its best for the appraiser. 

The Dish Soap Method

The dish soap method of cleaning jewelry is appropriate for those pieces that contain gemstones. The soap won’t harm the stones. Mix two cups of warm water and a few drops of mild dish detergent in a bowl. Place the jewelry in this solution and allow it to sit for 15 minutes. 

Take the jewelry out of the bowl. To remove any embedded dirt and debris, use a soft baby toothbrush or cotton swab. After cleaning the jewelry with the cotton swab or toothbrush, place the jewelry back in the solution to rinse the dirt and debris off the piece. 

Move the jewelry to the second bowl of clean, warm water. Place the jewelry in the water to remove the remaining soap. Dry the piece using a soft, lint-free cloth to increase the shine, and allow the jewelry to air dry overnight. This will prevent the tarnishing of the metal.