How to Clean and Care for 18K Gold Necklace & Rings: Expert Tips from Rivelle Jewelry

18K gold jewelry is a timeless investment, blending durability with luxury. However, daily wear exposes it to dirt, oils, and environmental factors that can dull its shine. At Rivelle Jewelry, we want your cherished pieces to retain their brilliance for years. Here’s a professional guide to safely clean, maintain, and protect your 18K gold jewelry.  

Part 1: Safe Cleaning Methods for 18K Gold Jewelry  

1. Mild Soap & Warm Water

The safest and most accessible method.
   - Fill a bowl with lukewarm water and a few drops of mild, phosphate-free dish soap.  
   - Soak the jewelry for 15–30 minutes to loosen dirt.  
   - Gently scrub with a soft-bristled toothbrush (avoid abrasive brushes).  
   - Rinse thoroughly under running water and pat dry with a microfiber cloth.  

2. Professional Jewelry Cleaner

Ideal for deep cleaning.
   - Use a non-acidic, ammonia-free cleaner specifically formulated for gold.  
   - Follow the product instructions—typically involving soaking and light brushing.  
   - Rinse and dry carefully to avoid residue.  

3. Ultrasonic Cleaner

Best for intricate designs.
   - Ultrasonic machines use high-frequency waves to dislodge grime from hard-to-reach areas.  
   - Only use this method for solid 18K gold pieces (avoid gemstones or delicate settings).  
   - Pair with a gentle cleaning solution and limit sessions to 2–3 minutes.  

⚠️ Avoid Harmful Methods: 

- Bleach, chlorine, or harsh chemicals can corrode the alloy metals in 18K gold.  
- Toothpaste (even mildly abrasive) may scratch the surface over time.  

Part 2: Daily Care & Maintenance Tips

1. Mindful Wearing

   - Remove jewelry before swimming (chlorine damages gold), exercising, or household chores.  
   - Apply perfume, lotions, or hairspray *before* putting on jewelry to minimize chemical exposure.  

      2. Proper Storage

   - Store pieces individually in soft pouches or lined jewelry boxes to prevent scratches.  
   - Keep away from direct sunlight and humidity to avoid tarnishing.  

    3. Regular Inspections

   - Check prongs, clasps, and settings every 6 months to ensure stones are secure.  
   - Visit a professional jeweler (like Rivelle’s experts) for adjustments or repairs.  

Part 3: Restoring Shine: Polishing & Replating

Even with care, 18K gold can lose its luster due to wear.  

1. At-Home Polishing

   - Use a microfiber polishing cloth to buff surface scratches gently.  
   - Avoid DIY “hacks” like baking soda, which may strip the finish.  

      2. Professional Replating 

   - Over time, the outer layer of rhodium (common on white gold) may wear off.  
   - Rivelle Jewelry offers replating services to restore your piece’s original radiance.  

Part 4: Preventing Discoloration 

18K gold (75% pure gold mixed with alloys like silver or copper) can naturally oxidize. Prolong its glow by:  
- Wiping jewelry with a clean cloth after each wear.  
- Avoiding contact with sulfur-rich environments (hot springs, certain foods).  
- Scheduling annual professional cleanings.  

Trust Rivelle Jewelry for Timeless Quality

At Rivelle Jewelry, we craft 18K gold pieces to last generations. Pair our expert craftsmanship with these care tips, and your jewelry will remain as stunning as the day you bought it.  

Explore our collection of 18K gold necklaces, rings, and bracelets—each designed to elevate your style while standing the test of time.