Jewelry is often forgotten about in our cleaning routines, but it shouldn’t be because of how much it comes in contact with the oils and dirt on our skin. The problem with many of the jewelry cleaners on the market is the use of their abrasive, harsh chemicals that irritate the integrity of the piece—and your skin. Going to a jeweler is always the best option for cleaning; luckily, there are natural cleaning methods that can also help keep your jewelry sparkling and your skin safe.

• Silver
  Real silver is low maintenance. The issue with silver is the corrosion of the top layers over time, which causes the metal to look tarnished. To keep your gemstone-free silver reflective, line a bowl with tin foil, and place your jewelry in the bowl. Bring 1 cup water to a boil, and combine with 1 tablespoon baking soda. Pour into the bowl. Submerge the piece underwater for up to ten minutes, and wipe away the tarnish with a washcloth.



• Gold
  Pure 24-karat gold is soft and prone to scratches. However, most gold pieces are made of gold and other metals to increase their longevity. You can clean jewelry with any percentage of gold (gemstone free) by placing the piece in a bowl and covering with warm water and mild dish soap. Let it soak for 15 to 20 minutes and remove. Dry with a washcloth.



• Diamonds and other stones
  Diamonds and other gemstones are sensitive to harsh chemicals found in some commercial cleaners, like chlorine and ammonia. Skip the store cleaner and soak your jewelry in a mixture of mild soap and warm water. Rinse with lukewarm water, and gently dry with a washcloth.



• Pearls
  Pearls are particularly tricky: they’re incredibly delicate and require careful attention when cleaning. Do not use anything too harsh or you’ll scrub away the pearl. For the best results, mix warm water and a splash of mild dish soap in a bowl. Dip a washcloth in the mixture, and gently wipe the pearl two to three times. Allow to dry before storing away.