Gold jewelry: a miniature pendant, earrings, a beautiful bracelet, or fine anklets! The simplicity and elegance of gold are indescribable! Gold is the traditional jewelry of the elite. The sparkle, shine, and versatility of gold make it a classic jewelry choice for many. Despite changing trends; gold remains a timeless accessory that is passed on from generation to generation without losing its appeal.
However, when buying gold, there are some aspects you need to know about. You need to know these three crucial things:
- 24 karat gold is not as superior as is believed. Most of us are drawn to it because of its 99.99% purity, but it’s too soft to use on most jewelry.
- Gold alloys are stronger because they are combined with other metals to improve their strength.
- Never forget to look for a quality mark on your gold purchase, as it represents the authenticity and quality of your gold.
Gold jewelry is exorbitantly priced, but can be stored for ages. Nonetheless; Regular use or prolonged storage of gold jewelry can dull or diminish the jewelry’s luster over time. That’s why frequent cleaning and maintenance of jewelry is vital to its preservation.
There are several DIY and professional methods that you will find that will guide you in the care of your gold jewelry. Here are 5 tips from Dolphin Galleries for taking care of your gold jewelry:
1] Clean regularly
How do you clean everything else to maintain its condition; It is also necessary to regularly clean gold jewelry to maintain its shine and newness. After constant use or prolonged storage; The accumulation of dust, oil, and dirt is natural. The impact of this may not be immediately apparent, but particles can build up and ultimately dull the surface of the jewelry. Implementing weekly cleaning sessions will keep your jewelry fresh all year round.
Cleaning gold jewelry is not as difficult as you might think. Simply soak the jewelry in warm soapy water for a few hours, then rinse thoroughly with clean water. Make sure the soap you use is mild and free from additives and fragrances. Let each piece dry completely before wearing the jewelry. Vinegar and baking soda can also be used as cleaning agents.
Using toothpaste to clean jewelry is being touted as a magic trick on the internet, but this is very misleading. Toothpaste often contains abrasive substances that can react with the metal and cause further damage.
2] Take off your jewelry whenever necessary
Remember that gold is a soft metal, which makes it susceptible to bumps, scratches, and bumps. So get rid of gold jewelry when performing certain tasks. For example, when you’re playing a high-contact sport or taking a shower, it’s always a good idea to remove your jewelry and store it in a safe place. Wearing gold jewelry while bathing can cause soap to build up, which will form a film on the jewelry. Even makeup, perfume, hairspray, and lotions can damage gold. Therefore, it is recommended to always adorn yourself with jewelry at the end when preparing to limit exposure.
Finally, when performing tasks like cooking, cleaning, doing housework, or gardening, avoid wearing jewelry as the chemicals you come into contact with during these processes can act as strong abrasives, acids, or alkalis, which can remove the polish. of your jewelry. .
3] Use soft materials
As stated earlier, gold is a soft metal. Therefore, to protect it from scratches, creases, and dullness, always use soft cleaning materials, such as soft cloths or soft-bristled brushes. Avoid using paper towels or tissue paper, as they can scratch your jewelry.
4] Beware of harsh chemicals at all costs
Aggressive chemicals, especially chlorine, can have adverse effects on decorations. When gold is exposed to chlorine, it begins to weaken or degrade and eventually break down. Many household cleaners or detergents contain abrasives and acids that can damage gold jewelry. To avoid contact with harsh chemicals, you can wear rubber gloves or simply remove your jewelry.
5] Storage
Now that you are familiar with cleaning your jewelry, let’s talk about another important aspect of jewelry storage. It is advisable to use a suitable compartmentalized box to store your jewelry. Because embellishments are often fragile, storing them in appropriate segments can prevent scratches, tangles, or breakage. Store jewelry in a way that eliminates the risk of oxidation and corrosion. Gold, in particular, should be stored in a cool, dry place with minimal exposure to sunlight.
With the tips mentioned above, you can extend the life of your jewelry, keep your gold pieces shiny, and eliminate the buildup of dust, makeup, and body oils, ensuring your gold accessories look their best like new. While the deterioration of jewelry is significantly dependent on the fundamental quality, with proper care, you can keep it in pristine condition and display your beautiful pieces for years and years to come.
