How to Clean Gold Jewellery at Home

Gold keeps its colour for generations, but daily wear coats it with skin oils, soap and dust. Cleaning it is straightforward.

The basic method

1. Mix a few drops of mild dish soap into a bowl of warm water.
2. Soak the gold for 15 to 20 minutes.
3. Brush gently with a soft brush, paying attention to crevices.
4. Rinse under lukewarm water, with the plug in the sink.
5. Dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.
6. Buff lightly for shine.

Chains

Chains collect dirt between links. Soak them for a while, and then brush gently along the length. A small, soft brush works well. To avoid tangles, clean them one at a time, and hang them to dry.

Bangles and kadas

Plain bangles clean easily with the same method. If they have carving or pattern, brush into the grooves. Avoid scrubbing hard, since gold is a soft metal and can scratch.

Textured and matte finishes

A matte or brushed finish is easily scratched by abrasive cleaning. Use only soft cloths and mild soap.

Pieces with stones

If the gold has diamonds, see how to clean diamond jewellery at home. For pearls and soft gemstones, wipe with a damp cloth and do not soak.

What to avoid

• Chlorine and bleach: these can attack gold alloys over time and weaken the metal. Take jewellery off for pools and cleaning.
• Abrasive cleaners and toothpaste: they scratch.
• Harsh scrubbing: it wears the surface.
• Mixing cleaning products: some can react.
• Home remedies of unknown effect: stick to soap and water.

White and rose gold

White gold is cleaned the same way. Its bright surface layer may fade over years and can be renewed by a jeweller. Rose gold keeps its colour well. See rose gold, white gold and yellow gold: how to choose.

Plated jewellery

Gold-plated pieces have only a thin layer of gold. Do not scrub them, or the plating can wear off. Wipe gently.

When to see a jeweller

• The piece has deep scratches, dents or a dull surface that cleaning does not lift.
• A clasp or link feels loose.
• A stone moves.
• You want a high polish. A jeweller can polish gold, which removes a very small amount of metal, so it should be done sparingly.

Prevent dirt

Put jewellery on after cosmetics. Take it off before washing up, swimming or exercise. See perfume, lotion and jewellery: what to avoid and jewellery and water: bathing, swimming and the gym.

Common questions

Does gold tarnish? Pure gold does not. The other metals in an alloy can darken slightly with certain chemicals, and cleaning removes it. See why jewellery is not pure gold.

How often should I clean gold? Every few weeks for daily wear.

Is it safe to use a polishing cloth? A soft jeweller's cloth is fine. Do not use it on plated pieces.

Keep it shining

Keep your pieces in separate soft pouches. See how to store diamond and gold jewellery. Browse our bangles and necklaces, or book an appointment for a professional clean.