Jewellery deserves regular care to maintain its beauty and brilliance—but cleaning it the wrong way can do more harm than good. From using harsh chemicals to skipping key steps, many well-intentioned habits may be damaging your favourite pieces. Here are five common mistakes you might be making while cleaning your jewellery—and how to avoid them.
1. Using Harsh Chemicals
It might seem like stronger is better, but aggressive cleaners can erode finishes and damage delicate stones.
Why It’s a Problem:
- Bleach, ammonia, and alcohol can break down metal alloys
- Acids can damage porous stones like pearls, opals, and turquoise
What to Do Instead: Use mild dish soap and warm water for most metals and stones. Always check whether your jewellery requires special care.
2. Skipping a Gentle Touch
Scrubbing too hard can loosen stones or scratch soft surfaces.
Common Mistake: Using stiff brushes or abrasive pads
What to Do Instead: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or microfiber cloth to gently clean intricate settings and polished surfaces.
3. Soaking All Pieces Together
Different metals and stones react differently to cleaning agents—and can scratch each other if soaked together.
Why It’s Risky:
- Hard stones can scratch softer ones
- Mixed metals may tarnish more quickly in shared solutions
What to Do Instead: Clean each piece separately and follow care guidelines for specific materials.
4. Forgetting to Dry Properly
Leaving moisture on jewellery can lead to tarnish, residue, or water spots.
Why It Matters:
- Water left in crevices can accelerate tarnishing
- Moisture can weaken clasps and prongs over time
What to Do Instead: Pat jewellery dry with a soft, lint-free cloth and let it air dry completely before storing.
5. Cleaning Too Often or Not Enough
Both extremes can shorten the life of your jewellery.
Too Much Cleaning: Can wear down finishes, loosen prongs, and dull polish Too Little Cleaning: Allows dirt and oils to build up, affecting shine and wear
What to Do Instead: Clean regularly—but gently. Once a month for daily wear pieces is a good rule of thumb.
Final Thoughts: Clean With Care
Your jewellery is more than decoration—it’s part of your story. By avoiding these common cleaning mistakes, you’ll protect its beauty and longevity for years to come. Gentle care and attention go a long way in keeping your favourite pieces sparkling, safe, and ready to wear anytime.
