How to Care for Jewelry: Simple Tips
How to Care for Jewelry
The best way to care for jewelry is to wipe it gently after wearing, store it dry and separately, and choose a cleaning method that suits the material. Stainless steel, silver, plated jewelry, pearls and natural stones should not all be treated in the same way.
Jewelry care at a glance
| Material | Gentle cleaning | Best avoided |
|---|---|---|
| Stainless steel & titanium steel | Soft cloth; lukewarm water and mild soap when needed | Chlorine, harsh cleaners and damp storage |
| 925, 990 & 999 silver | Silver polishing cloth, then store dry | Toothpaste, abrasives and harsh chemicals |
| Gold- or silver-plated jewelry | Wipe gently with a dry, soft cloth | Hard rubbing, long soaking, perfume and lotion |
| Pearls | Wipe after wearing with a soft, slightly damp cloth | Soaking, ultrasonic cleaners, perfume and heat |
| Natural stones & crystals | Soft, slightly damp cloth; care depends on the stone | Ultrasonic cleaning, harsh products and sudden heat changes |
| Cubic zirconia | Soft cloth; mild soapy water if the base material allows it | Abrasive cleaners and hard brushes |
The 5 most important jewelry care rules
- Put jewelry on last: Apply perfume, hairspray and lotion first and let them dry.
- Wipe it after wearing: A soft cloth removes sweat, skin oils and product residue.
- Store it dry and separately: Individual compartments or soft pouches help prevent scratches and tangled chains.
- Match cleaning to the material: Not every piece can be soaked or cleaned with an ultrasonic device.
- Check the product page: If a piece is specifically described as waterproof, it is designed for more contact with water. Even then, rinse it after chlorine or salt water and dry it well.
How do I clean silver jewelry?
Silver can tarnish over time. Gently polish it with a suitable silver cloth and store it somewhere dry, preferably protected from air and separate from other jewelry. Avoid toothpaste and abrasive products, which can cause fine scratches. Because 990 and 999 silver are softer than 925 silver, they need especially gentle handling.
How do I care for plated jewelry?
Gold- and silver-plated pieces have a thin outer layer over the base material. Clean them without pressure using a soft cloth. Avoid long soaking and direct contact with perfume, lotion and household cleaners—unless the product page specifically describes the piece as waterproof and suitable for everyday wear.
How do I care for pearls and natural stones?
Pearls are more delicate than many metals. Wipe them gently after wearing and let them dry flat. Natural stones can react differently to water, heat and cleaners. If you do not know the exact stone or whether it has been treated, a slightly damp, soft cloth is the safest option.
Frequently asked questions
Can I clean jewelry with toothpaste?
It is better not to. Toothpaste often contains abrasive ingredients that may scratch metal, coatings and gemstones.
Can I shower with jewelry on?
Only when the product page specifically identifies the piece as waterproof. Pearls, silver jewelry and plated copper jewelry should generally be removed before showering.
Can I use an ultrasonic jewelry cleaner?
Not for every piece. Pearls, porous, treated or delicate stones, and many plated items should not be put in an ultrasonic cleaner. When in doubt, choose professional cleaning.
What is the best way to store jewelry?
Keep it dry, away from direct sunlight and preferably in separate compartments. Fasten chains and lay them flat to help prevent tangles.
In short
Good jewelry care is simple: wipe pieces gently, store them dry and always consider the material. These small habits can help your favorite jewelry look beautiful for longer.
Discover waterproof jewelry from AuraGleam and always check the material and care information on each product page.