How to Clean

Jewelry experts swear that this homemade concoction works as well as chemical cleaners do: In a large bowl, mix 2 parts dish soap and 10 parts warm water. Soak jewelry for 3 hours, then gently scrub with a soft, clean toothbrush. (This method is also safe for any pieces with diamonds.) Rinse in hot water. Dry thoroughly with a microfiber cloth, then polish with a jewelry cloth (available at most jewelry stores). Repeat as often as needed. And rejoice, squeaky-clean types: You can’t overclean gold. See our video for a demonstration of how to clean gold jewelry. 

How to Maintain

Ideally you should take gold pieces to a jeweler annually to have them checked for loose parts. And while you’re there, get them steamed and buffed until they’re super shiny.

How to Store

Your jewelry should be the last thing you put on in the morning and the first thing you take off at night. That way, your necklace won’t get spritzed with perfume and your earrings won’t get caught in your clothes. To prevent scratches and tangles, separate pieces on velvet-lined trays, in boxes with compartments, or in small zippered plastic bags.