How To Clean White Gold: A Simple Guide
Thu, Oct 10, 2024
White gold is an alloy of gold and metals such as palladium, platinum, or silver. Like these metals, it is likely to get dirty and accumulate dirt and grime after a while. Despite its rhodium coating, white gold can lose its shine and dull over time. To restore its brilliance, it's essential to know how to clean white gold properly. This guide will provide you with simple yet effective methods to keep your white gold jewelry looking as good as new.
Materials Needed
- Mild dish soap
- Warm water
- Soft-bristled toothbrush
- Baking soda ( Optional )
- Soft cloth
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Clean White Gold
1. Prepare a Cleaning solution
Prepare a cleaning solution by mixing a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water in a bowl. Avoid using hot water as it can damage delicate gemstones
2. Soaking
Submerge your white gold jewelry in the soapy solution and let it soak for 20-30 minutes. This soaking process helps to loosen dirt, oils, and grime from the jewelry.
3. Scrubbing
After soaking, remove the jewelry from the solution. Use a soft toothbrush or cloth to gently scrub the white gold, paying attention to any nooks and crannies. Be gentle to avoid scratching the metal.
An optional choice is to create a paste using baking soda and a small amount of water. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush, gently scrub the jewelry with the baking soda paste. The baking soda acts as a mild abrasive, helping to remove stubborn grime without scratching the metal.
4. Rinsing
Rinse the jewelry thoroughly under warm running water to remove all soap or baking soda residues. Ensure that the water flows through all clasps and settings to wash away any remaining cleaning solution. To prevent losing small pieces, consider rinsing the jewelry after plugging the sink.
5. Drying and Polishing
Gently pat the jewelry dry with a soft cloth. Avoid using paper towels or rough fabrics that can scratch the surface. Once dry, polish the jewelry with the cloth to restore its shine. Pay special attention to small crevices and settings to ensure they are completely dry.
NOTE:
Inspection
Before cleaning, inspect your white gold jewelry for any loose stones or broken clasps. Losing stones or other loose parts can be quite devastating. This may happen if an already damaged piece of jewelry is submerged in water. If you find any loose parts, it’s best to take the jewelry to a professional jeweler for repair before proceeding with cleaning.
Professional Cleaning
If your white gold jewelry is heavily damaged or has intricate designs that are difficult to clean at home, we recommend taking it to a professional jeweler. To add to that, white gold has a rhodium plating that can become dull or yellowish over time. To restore its original brightness, you may need to have it re-plated.
Maintenance Tips
- Clean your white gold jewelry regularly to prevent the buildup of dirt and oils.
- Keep your jewelry away from chlorine, bleach, and other harsh chemicals that can damage the metal and gemstones.
- Store your white gold jewelry in a soft cloth or jewelry box to prevent scratches and tarnishing.
- Take off your jewelry during activities like swimming, gardening, or exercising to avoid exposure to sweat and chemicals.
Need more information? You can also check out our guide, “Does White Gold Tarnish? Tips to Keep It Shining” for additional cleaning tips and maintenance advice to ensure your white gold jewelry stays brilliant and beautiful for years to come.
By following these steps and tips, you can properly clean your jewelry at home and keep your white gold pieces looking as stunning as the day you bought them. Regular maintenance and proper cleaning will ensure that your pieces remain a cherished part of your collection for years to come.
FAQs
Q. How to clean white gold that has turned black?
White gold that has turned black can be cleaned using a solution of warm water and mild dish soap. Soak the jewelry for 20-30 minutes, gently scrub with a soft-bristled toothbrush, and rinse under warm water. If discoloration persists, the rhodium plating may need to be reapplied by a jeweler.
Q. How to clean white gold with vinegar?
Using vinegar on white gold is not recommended, as it can damage the rhodium plating. If you must use it, mix equal parts vinegar and water, soak for 5-10 minutes, gently scrub, and rinse thoroughly. A mild soap solution is a safer option.
Q. Does baking soda damage gold?
Baking soda can scratch gold surfaces, especially lower-karat or plated pieces like white gold. It’s best to avoid using baking soda and instead use a gentle dish soap solution to prevent damage.
Q. What to use to clean white gold?
Clean white gold using a solution of mild dish soap and warm water. Soak the jewelry, scrub gently with a soft toothbrush, rinse thoroughly, and dry with a soft cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals to protect the rhodium plating.
Q. Does rubbing alcohol damage gold jewelry?
Rubbing alcohol can wear down the rhodium plating on white gold with frequent use. It’s safe for occasional cleaning, but a mild soap and water solution is better for regular cleaning to preserve the finish.