How To Clean A Gold Chain

By: Shelley Marie

Break Studios Contributing Writer

If you want to know how to clean a gold chain, read on for tips to make your gold jewelry shiny and lustrous. Cleaning a gold chain can be accomplished simply with a commercial gold jewelry cleaner. Prevent future dulling by taking off your jewelry when showering or bathing - soap residue can build up and dull the surface.

To clean a gold chain, you'll need:

  • Gold jewelry cleaner solution or alcohol
  • Dish soap (optional)
  • Bowl (optional)
  • Small, soft bristled brush or toothbrush (usually included with cleaner)
  • Soft, lint-free cloth
  1. Remove your gold chain. Place it in the jewelry cleaner solution, rubbing alcohol, or a bowl of warm water mixed with a few drops of dish soap. The solutions will help loosen dirt and grease from your jewelry.
  2. Allow the gold chain to soak for up to ten minutes. Use a brush to clean the chain, starting from one end and working to the other. Get into any nooks and crannies to remove hidden debris.
  3. Rinse the chain well with clean, lukewarm water. Remove all soap or cleaner residue. Dry well and buff to a shine with a soft cloth.

Gold is a soft metal, so never use abrasives or harsh cleaners on it. If you are concerned about scratching, use a cloth instead of a brush to clean your gold. Never use bleach to clean gold, as it can damage the metal. Heavy tarnish may not be easily removed with these methods without scratching, so contact a professional jewelry cleaner for a special cleaning.

Reference:


Jewelry Information Center

Posted on: Apr. 17, 2010