
The Ultimate Guide to Caring for Your Jewelry
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Gold Ritual jewelry is timeless, elegant, and the perfect everyday accessory. Whether you wear dainty gold filled pieces or sterling silver with gold accents, proper care ensures your jewelry stays radiant for years. This guide will walk you through the best ways to maintain your jewelry, including specific tips for gold filled and sterling silver pieces.
Caring for Gold Filled Jewelry
Gold filled jewelry is a fantastic alternative to solid gold, offering durability and a luxurious look without the hefty price tag. Unlike gold plated pieces, gold filled jewelry has a thick layer of real gold bonded to a jeweler’s brass that won’t fade or rub off!
Is Gold Filled Jewelry Waterproof?
Yes! Gold-filled jewelry is waterproof and can withstand exposure to water without tarnishing or fading. You can wear it while washing your hands or showering, but be sure to dry it off completely after. Gold filled jewelry is not chemical-proof! We recommend avoiding harsh chemicals (like chlorine in pools or perfumes) to help extend its shine for decades.
How to Clean Gold-Filled Jewelry
- Gentle Soap & Water: Mix mild dish soap with warm water, soak your jewelry for a few minutes, then gently scrub with a soft toothbrush or cloth.
- Polishing Cloth: Use a jewelry polishing cloth to restore shine and remove any residue.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Stay away from strong jewelry cleaners or abrasives, which can wear down the gold layer over time.
Storage Tips
- Store in a soft pouch or a lined jewelry box to prevent scratches.
- Keep pieces separate to avoid tangling, especially with delicate chains.
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Remove jewelry before applying lotions, perfumes, or heavy skincare products.
Caring for Sterling Silver Jewelry
Sterling silver jewelry with gold detailing offers a beautiful contrast of metals, but since silver naturally oxidizes over time, it requires slightly different care than gold-filled jewelry.
Wear It Often to Keep It Shining
Unlike gold, sterling silver reacts with air and moisture, causing it to tarnish over time. However, wearing your sterling silver jewelry often actually helps prevent tarnishing! The natural oils in your skin create a protective barrier that slows down oxidation, keeping your silver looking bright for longer.
If you notice a piece starting to tarnish, don’t worry—it’s completely normal and can be easily cleaned.
Preventing Tarnish on Sterling Silver
- Store it in an airtight container or anti-tarnish pouch when not in use.
- Avoid exposing silver jewelry to humidity, perfumes, and harsh cleaners.
- Give it a quick wipe-down after wearing to remove any buildup from skin oils or products.
How to Clean Sterling Silver Jewelry
- Silver Polishing Cloth: Regularly wipe down silver jewelry to remove tarnish and maintain shine.
- Baking Soda & Water Paste: For deep cleaning, make a paste using baking soda and water, rub gently with a soft cloth, then rinse and dry.
- Silver Cleaning Solution: Use a specialized sterling silver cleaner for more stubborn tarnish, but avoid prolonged exposure to protect any gold accents.
Making Your Jewelry Last
With the right care, both gold filled and sterling silver jewelry can stay beautiful for a lifetime. A little daily maintenance—like wiping down your pieces and wearing your silver regularly—goes a long way in preserving their shine and quality.
At Gold Ritual, we believe in jewelry that’s made to be worn and loved every day. By following these simple care tips, your favorite pieces will continue to be a staple in your collection.
Pictured: Clara Necklace