How to Take Care of Gold-Plated Sterling Silver (Vermeil), Solid Gold, & Cubic Zirconia Jewelry: Easy Tips & Tricks
This short article will give easy-to-remember tips and tricks for taking care of gold-plated silver with cubic zirconia and solid gold jewelry. Cherish every moment wearing your favorite jewelry, knowing they will always look their best.
Taking Care of Gold-Plated Sterling Silver (Vermeil)
Gold plated jewelry consists of base metal(s) such as sterling silver or a blend of alloys. Vermeil consists of a thick, durable layer of gold electroplated over sterling silver base, providing an ultra-long-lasting color and rich shine. We are proud to offer gorgeous vermeil designs using sterling silver with gold plating, perfect for your everyday lifestyle.
Jewelry Polishing Cloth: Cleaning your gold plated/vermeil jewelry is effortless using a professional polishing cloth. Gently rubbing each area of the piece and removing discoloration with the cloth only takes minutes. Jewelry polishing cloths are affordable and can be used more than once. We are pleased to include a complimentary jewelry polishing cloth with every jewelry purchased. Treat yourself to a beautiful, sparkling piece of jewelry by using the cloth regularly.
Easy At-Home Method: Cleaning gold plated/vermeil jewelry with warm soapy water and a very soft brush has only a few components! Follow the suggested steps below:
Soapy Water Solution:
- Combine a few drops of mild soap and warm water.
- Mix solution in a bowl.
- Allow your jewelry to soak in the soapy water solution for a few minutes.
- Gently rub your jewelry with a soft toothbrush or other soft brush. Brushing the piece removes debris and bacteria. Paying extra attention to the prongs and settings breaks up old grime and unsightly build-up hiding in the mounting near the stones.
- Run your jewelry under cool tap water and gently pat dry with a washcloth or paper towel.
Tips: Vermeil jewelry should NOT be placed in an ultrasonic cleaner or liquid jewelry cleaner. These methods are too abrasive and harsh for any plated metal. Treating your gold plated jewelry gingerly is optimal. Although vermeil is unlikely to corrode or tarnish, both the ultrasonic and chemical liquid jewelry cleaner methods may cause irreversible discoloration and chipping.
Taking Care of Solid Gold Jewelry
Both the soapy water and jewelry cloth methods are suitable for cleaning solid gold jewelry. Solid gold jewelry can also be placed in an ultrasonic cleaner and liquid jewelry cleaner. Regular cleaning of your solid gold jewelry will show off the mirror effect of the precious gold metal.
Taking Care of Cubic Zirconia Jewelry
Cubic zirconia is a glamorous synthetic stone that is eco-friendly, socially conscious, and high-quality, displaying incredible sparkle and brilliance. Cubic zirconia rates 8-8.50 on the Mohs hardness scale (out of 10, which is what a diamond rates). This means cubic zirconia is harder than some other stones, making it suitable for wearing frequently.
However, cubic zirconia can also abrade (scratch) easily along the facet junctions if it is knocked, dropped, or stored improperly. These incurred surface blemishes cause the cubic zirconia to lose its fire, appearing worn out and weathered.
Depending on the metal it is placed in, cleaning your cubic zirconia jewelry with the warm soapy water solution, a jewelry cloth, an ultrasonic cleaner, or liquid jewelry cleaner will work. Remember to always treat your jewelry gingerly–there is no need to scrub hard. If you are concerned, use the mildest cleaning method first, starting with the jewelry polishing cloth.
Quick Daily Tips for Storing & Maintenance:
- Removing your jewelry before swimming or showering prevents surface dullness and grime build-up. Chlorine and saltwater may permanently dry out the stone(s) and corrode the metal.
- Sweat or excessive movement may damage the jewelry; removing it before exercise keeps it safe from contamination and breaking during strenuous activities.
- Are you going to the gym? Leaving your jewelry at home will keep it safe from getting stolen or misplaced while out in a public setting–focus on your workout and become worry-free by taking your jewelry off BEFORE going to any fitness center.
- Jewelry should be the last step when you get ready! Lotion, cosmetics, hair products, essential oils, and perfume may contain harsh chemicals and other ingredients that may lead to oxidation. Taking the jewelry off first when you get home will keep it from breaking or getting caught in clothing and hair.
- Storing jewelry in individual jewelry bags or boxes will keep them away from environmental factors, including pollutants in the air, accidents, and or getting lost. Jewelry stored in a jumble rub against each other, potentially damaging the stones and finishes of the metal.
Learning to take care of your jewelry is a vital step in jewelry maintenance. Frequent cleaning and properly storing the jewelry helps any treasured piece retain its appearance you initially fell in love with–-enjoy your gold plated with cubic zirconia or solid gold jewelry by keeping them pristine.