subject: How To Clean A Gold Bracelet In An Effective Way [print this page] A gold bracelet is one of the best gift items to give to your family or friend this joyous season. People around the world like to collect jewelry made of pure gold. Its mesmerizing, shiny look makes it hard for an individual, especially woman, not to buy it. Besides, who wouldn't want to wear a bracelet made of gold?
A 24k gold is a pure gold. However, a jewelry made of pure gold is soft. The durability is not sufficient, so to become sturdy, manufacturers mix other metals which create an alloy. Because of the presence of other metallic elements, gold jewelry like bracelet tends to produce tarnish.
To avoid tarnishes on your gold bracelet, follow these few simple instructions.
1. Remove Tarnish
For gold bracelet that does not have crystals, pearls and other stones, soak the bracelet in a bowl of warm water which contains a few drops of mild dish detergent liquid. Let this be done for about 15 minutes. While soaking, gently scrub all the sides of the gold bracelet with a cotton swab, soft toothbrush or eyebrow brush. Afterward, rinse it thoroughly with warm water and dry with a soft or cotton cloth. Let the jewelry dry completely before storing. Once it dries, don't be surprised to see your jewelry looks dull. Simply rub it with a jewelry polishing clean cloth but not in circular motion.
Gold bracelets with stones like gemstones and crystals must not be soaked in water. Only wipe the bracelet with a cloth dabbed in dish soap liquid. Next, rinse it with a wet cloth. Make sure every inch of the bracelet is thoroughly cleansed.
2. What to Avoid
Always remember not to use baking soda, bleach or toothpaste fluid to clean your gold bracelet. Mild dish washing liquid like Ivory and Dawn is recommended. Permanent discoloration occurs once the jewelry is exposed to any product containing chlorine. Don't attempt to use paper products, too, because they consist of particles that can possibly scratch the surface of the gold.
3. Other Cleaning Method
Ammonia method is sometimes used. Soak the bracelet in a bowl of water with ammonia for a minute. Rinse it under running water then let it dry with a soft cloth for polishing finish. Do this method carefully and rarely.
Professional polishing is the most reliable method to maintain the cleanliness of your gold bracelet. Many jewelers use cleaning tools that are automatic like steam or ionic cleaner and ultrasonic. These equipments thoroughly and safely clean your jewelry. Some experts use abrasive papers to extensively polish the jewelry. This is to maintain the brightness of gold which makes you wear it for many long years.
To store your gold bracelet and other jewelry made of gold, make sure you use a cloth bag or soft padded box. Storing your gold bracelet will save you some time in cleaning and spending money too. So, better be wise in taking care of your most precious gold bracelet since you don't want to spend another huge amount of dollars.
