How to Clean Gold, Platinum, Diamond, and Gemstone Jewelry Without Damaging It
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Because the way we care for our jewelry says just as much as the reason we wear it.
Jewelry has always meant more than decoration. Across centuries and cultures, we’ve worn it to honor love, mark milestones, and preserve memory. Whether it’s a sleek modern piece or something passed down through generations, jewelry connects us to stories — and like all good stories, it deserves to be handled with care.
But in the rush to keep our favorite pieces sparkling, we sometimes reach for solutions that do more harm than good. Harsh chemicals, abrasive cloths, or even improper storage can gradually dull or damage what was once radiant.
The good news? Preserving the beauty of your fine jewelry doesn’t require special machines or professional kits. Just a little knowledge — and a gentle touch.
Cleaning Diamonds (Natural & Lab-Grown)
Diamonds—whether mined sustainably or lab-grown—are the hardest gemstones on Earth. That makes them durable, but not immune to buildup. Oils, dirt, and lotions can cloud their brilliance over time.
Recommended method:
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Soak in a bowl of warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap.
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Use a soft toothbrush to gently clean behind the stone and around the setting.
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Rinse with clean water and pat dry with a lint-free cloth.
Avoid:
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Harsh cleaners like bleach or ammonia.
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Abrasive cloths or scrubbers that could damage prongs or metal settings.
Cleaning Gold Jewelry
Solid gold—whether yellow, white, or rose—is naturally resistant to tarnish, but it benefits from regular gentle cleaning.
Recommended method:
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Mix warm water with a drop of gentle dish soap.
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Soak briefly, then wipe with a soft cloth or brush lightly if needed.
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Rinse well and dry thoroughly.
Avoid:
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Harsh chemicals that dull gold’s surface.
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Excessive scrubbing that can wear down engravings or detailing.
Cleaning Platinum Jewelry
Platinum is one of the strongest, most resilient metals used in jewelry. While it resists tarnish, it can still lose a little luster from daily wear.
Recommended method:
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Wash in warm, soapy water using a mild dish soap.
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Use a soft cloth or soft-bristled brush to clean.
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Dry completely with a lint-free cloth.
Pro tip: Platinum naturally develops a soft “patina” over time. Many love this look, but if you prefer a bright polish, a jeweler can restore its shine professionally.
Cleaning Gemstones (Sapphire, Ruby, Emerald, etc.)
Colored gemstones bring depth and vibrance to fine jewelry, but they are more varied in their durability and care needs than diamonds.
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Sapphire & Ruby: Both rank high on the Mohs hardness scale (9), making them durable for daily wear. They can usually be cleaned safely with the same soap-and-water method used for diamonds.
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Emerald: More delicate than sapphire or ruby, emeralds often contain natural inclusions that make them sensitive to heat and harsh cleaning. Emeralds should never be soaked. Instead, gently wipe them with a damp, soft cloth and dry immediately.
General gemstone care tips:
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Always use lukewarm—not hot—water.
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Avoid ultrasonic cleaners at home, especially for emeralds or stones with visible inclusions.
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Never expose gemstones to harsh chemicals, which can cause permanent damage.
Timeless Tips for Preserving Fine Jewelry
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Remove before bathing, swimming, or exercising
Chlorine, saltwater, and sweat can weaken metal settings and dull gemstones. -
Apply beauty products first
Perfumes, lotions, and hairsprays can leave residues that reduce brilliance. -
Store with intention
Use soft pouches or lined jewelry boxes. Store diamonds separately—since they can scratch other gemstones and metals. -
Wipe after wearing
A soft, lint-free cloth keeps oils and dirt from building up.
A Final Reflection
Gold, platinum, diamonds, and gemstones are chosen not just for their beauty, but for their endurance. Caring for them is less about complexity and more about consistency: gentle cleaning, thoughtful storage, and the intention to preserve their brilliance for years to come.
Because fine jewelry is more than an accessory—it’s a legacy. And when cared for well, it carries your story forward in every sparkle.
Written by Mia Laurent
Content Editor, Altura Jewelry Blog