We all have our favourite pieces of jewellery we like to wear all the time.

They can sometimes start to look a little dull and lack the sparkle they used to have when they were brand new.

There are everyday household items you can use to bring back the sparkle. Remember though if it is a truly precious piece – don’t risk it and clean it at home – take it to a jeweller!

Here’s our easy tips on how to clean your jewellery at home!

Silver Cleaner

1/4 cup hot water
salt
a piece of aluminum foil (big enough to cover a bowl or plate).
1tbsp bicarb

Method

Cover a plate with some aluminium foil.
Add 1 tablespoon of salt and 1 tablespoon of bi carb.
Then pour the hot (but not boiling) water onto the plate.
Stir to dissolve the powders.
Now you can dunk your silver in the solution.
How long do you need to keep your silver in the solution? The results may be immediate, or they may take a few minutes. However, if an item is very tarnished, this cleaning method will not make your jewellery perfectly clean and looking like new.
Additional polishing will still be needed.
This method should not be used on old or delicate jewellery it should be left up to professionals.
Also be careful with precious and semi precious stones. Depending on the sentimental value it may be worth the trip to a jeweller for professional cleaning.
Also, be aware that this method is not good for antiqued (oxidized) silver, as cleaning will remove the antiqued finish on the silver along with the tarnish.

Gold Cleaner

Soft toothbrush
Mild detergent
Soft polishing cloth

Method

Place a dash of detergent into some warm water and place jewellery to is for a few minutes.
Using the toothbrush give it a gentle scrub and then rinse and polish with the soft cloth.
The detergent removes the oils that build up on gold jewellery with wear and helps break it down. With a little gentle scrub it will be good as new.
It is wise to check clasps, mountings, prongs and posts for damage before washing the jewellery. If you find a problem, take the item to a jeweller for repair. It’s much better to be safe than sorry!
Always be sure gold jewellery is completely dry before storing it.
Never use a harsh or abrasive cleaner, a stiff brush or a scouring pad on gold as it is a soft metal.

Please remember if your jewellery is precious to you don’t attempt to clean it at home – take it to the professionals.