Artificial jewellery, also known as imitation or fashion jewellery, has become a popular choice for those looking to accessorise without the hefty price tag of real gold or silver. Brands like MRJewels offer stunning pieces that look just as elegant and luxurious as fine jewellery, from beautiful necklaces to intricate earrings and elegant bracelets. However, to keep your artificial jewellery looking its best, regular cleaning and proper care are essential.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through some easy and effective ways to clean and maintain your artificial jewellery so it stays sparkling and beautiful for years to come.
1. Use a Mild Soap Solution
The easiest and most common way to clean your artificial jewellery is by using a mild soap solution.
Steps:
- Mix mild soap with warm water – Use a gentle soap, such as dish soap, and mix it with lukewarm water in a bowl.
- Soak the jewellery – Place your jewellery in the soap solution for 2-3 minutes. Be cautious with pieces that have stones or delicate settings; avoid soaking them for too long.
- Use a soft brush – Use a soft toothbrush or a cotton swab to gently scrub away dirt and grime, especially around the intricate parts of necklaces, earrings, and bracelets.
- Rinse with water – Rinse the jewellery under lukewarm water to remove soap residue.
- Dry thoroughly – Pat the jewellery dry with a soft cloth. Make sure to dry it completely to prevent any moisture from causing tarnishing or rust.
2. Use a Vinegar Solution for Tough Tarnish
If your artificial jewellery has developed tarnish or stubborn spots, you can use a vinegar solution to clean it.
Steps:
- Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a bowl.
- Soak the jewellery for 5-10 minutes, depending on the level of tarnish. Be mindful not to soak pieces with delicate stones or glued parts, as the vinegar may weaken the adhesive.
- Gently scrub the tarnished areas with a soft brush.
- Rinse the jewellery thoroughly under warm water and dry it completely with a soft cloth.
3. Baking Soda Paste for Deep Cleaning
Baking soda is another excellent cleaner for artificial jewellery. It helps remove tough dirt and restores shine.
Steps:
- Create a paste by mixing baking soda and water in a 2:1 ratio.
- Apply the paste to the jewellery using a soft cloth or toothbrush. Make sure to apply it gently to avoid scratching the surface.
- Scrub gently to clean the jewellery, especially around hard-to-reach areas like chain links or under stones.
- Rinse with lukewarm water and dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.
4. Avoid Harsh Chemicals
While it might be tempting to use strong household cleaners or jewellery cleaning solutions meant for gold or silver, these can be too harsh for artificial jewellery. Avoid bleach, acetone, alcohol, or any other strong chemicals, as they can damage the surface or remove any coatings on the jewellery.
5. Polish with a Soft Cloth
After cleaning, it’s important to polish your jewellery to restore its shine. Use a soft, microfiber cloth to gently polish the jewellery. For pieces like bracelets or necklaces with intricate detailing, gently buff the surface to bring back the sparkle.
6. Store Your Jewellery Properly
Cleaning your jewellery is only half the battle – how you store it can make all the difference in keeping it in pristine condition.
Tips for Proper Storage:
- Keep it dry: Always ensure your jewellery is completely dry before storing it to prevent moisture from tarnishing the metal.
- Store in a dry place: Keep your artificial jewellery in a cool, dry place. Avoid humid areas like bathrooms.
- Use individual pouches or boxes: To prevent scratching and tangling, store each piece separately in soft pouches or jewellery boxes with compartments.
- Anti-tarnish strips: Consider placing anti-tarnish strips in your jewellery box to absorb excess moisture and prevent tarnishing.
7. Avoid Wearing Jewelry in Water or While Applying Products
Water and chemicals can damage artificial jewellery. Remove your jewellery before swimming, showering, or applying lotions and perfumes. The chemicals in beauty products can dull the shine and affect the finish of your jewellery.
8. Quick Cleaning Hacks for On-the-Go
If you need a quick touch-up for your jewellery while you’re on the go, here are a couple of easy hacks:
- Baby wipes: Gentle baby wipes can quickly clean off dirt and smudges. Make sure they are free of alcohol or harsh chemicals.
- Polishing cloths: Keep a polishing cloth handy for a quick shine whenever your jewellery needs a little extra sparkle.
Conclusion
Maintaining the beauty of your artificial jewellery is easy with regular care and the right cleaning methods. Whether it’s a stunning necklace, a pair of intricate earrings, or a delicate bracelet, following these simple cleaning steps will ensure your jewellery remains shiny, untarnished, and ready to complement your outfits.
By taking the time to clean and store your jewellery properly, you can enjoy your MRJewels collection for years to come, keeping it as glamorous as the day you bought it.
