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Costume jewelry usually consists of less expensive stones and metals than those found in fine jewelry made from precious metals and gemstones. Nevertheless, many pieces of costume jewelry are still valuable, either in monetary or sentimental value, or perhaps even both. Moreover, costume stones and metals are often less durable than those found in finer jewelry, requiring the use of gentle cleaning methods. Knowing how to clean these pieces properly without damaging them will set your mind at ease.

Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Doing a Dry Clean

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The dry method is a safe way to clean old jewelry, since many moist or wet cleansers can leave behind a film or even cause lasting damage.

  1. Overhead lights in dark rooms are likely to cast shadows and should be avoided. Look for a desk with a lamp that you can direct or a clear counter in front of a window.
  2. Watermark wikiHow to Clean Costume Jewelry
    Doing this will remove any dirt caked onto the surface.
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  3. This loosens any dirt and dust that might be trapped in the crevices.
  4. Look for any additional trapped dirt.
  5. Watermark wikiHow to Clean Costume Jewelry
    Avoid using a metal pick, since this may scratch glass beads or soft gemstones if your hand slips.
  6. Watermark wikiHow to Clean Costume Jewelry
    Doing so removes most fingerprints and smudges while giving your jewelry back a bit of its original shine.
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Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Using a Gentle Cleansing Solution

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If there is grime that does not come off after the dry clean, step things up a notch with a gentle cleansing solution.

  1. Watermark wikiHow to Clean Costume Jewelry
    Use a gentle soap, since harsher soaps may contain chemicals that will damage your jewelry.[1]
  2. Watermark wikiHow to Clean Costume Jewelry
    Alternatively, you may use a cotton swab.[2]
  3. Use the least amount of solution possible on your jewelry.
  4. Watermark wikiHow to Clean Costume Jewelry
    Apply light pressure to avoid loosening any glue or enameling.[3]
  5. Watermark wikiHow to Clean Costume Jewelry
    Try to perform this step quickly. Water can damage costume jewelry, so you must not immerse it for long.[4]
  6. Watermark wikiHow to Clean Costume Jewelry
  7. Use the dryer's cool setting, since heat can damage some costume jewelry.[5]
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Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Using a Last Resort Cleaning Approach

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If both the dry and gentle cleansing methods fail to fully clean stuck-on grime, switch to a stronger cleanser.

  1. Always read the label on the jewelry cleanser. Many are not suitable for costume jewelry because they contain chemicals like alcohol or vinegar. Only use a cleanser when the label specifically states that it is safe for costume jewelry.
  2. Watermark wikiHow to Clean Costume Jewelry
  3. Watermark wikiHow to Clean Costume Jewelry
    Avoid scrubbing around the area where the gem is attached to its backing, since even a gentle cleanser may loosen the glue.
  4. Watermark wikiHow to Clean Costume Jewelry
  5. Keep the drying on a cool setting to prevent heat damage.
  6. Watermark wikiHow to Clean Costume Jewelry
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Community Q&A

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  • Question
    How do I clean old clip on earring costume jewelry without damaging the metal or whatever it's mounted on?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    Use a toothpick to get rid of grime gently, then scrub lightly with a toothbrush and some baking soda.
  • Question
    How do I clean the crystal face of a watch without damaging it?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    It depends on your watch. I'm assuming it's a simple watch face with a few gem interlays, in which case a simple glass cleaning cloth plus a toothpick could be of service to you.
  • Question
    How can I clean a diamond ring?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    Use crystal polish or a diamond cleaning solution.
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Tips

  • Never soak your costume jewelry in jewelry solution, even if the solution is safe to use on costume jewelry. This is especially important if there are gemstones or other elements glued in place, since many cleansers will loosen the adhesive.
  • Avoid using water on jewelry that contains copper or mixed metals. Water will react with the copper, damaging it in the process. Stick with simple dry methods for pieces like these.
  • Put your jewelry on last and take it off first. Avoid putting your jewelry into contact with perfume, hair spray, or other chemicals.
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Things You’ll Need

  • Lamp
  • Baby toothbrush
  • Compressed air
  • Cotton swap
  • Magnifying glass
  • Toothpick
  • Soft cloth
  • Soap
  • Water
  • Jewelry cleanser
  • Non-acetone nail polish remover

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Expert Interview

Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about watches, check out our in-depth interview with Bill Green.

About This Article

Bill Green
Co-authored by:
Jewelry & Watch Expert
This article was co-authored by Bill Green. Bill Green is an Expert Jeweler and Appraiser. He is also the Founder & Creative Director of Jewelry & Timepiece Mechanix, and the Founder and Designer of Amaroo Handmade Opal Jewelry, based in Haddonfield, New Jersey. With over 40 years of industry knowledge, he and his team are known for restoring everything from new watches to vintage jewels and being one of the few shops that still design and make jewelry and watches. Jewelry & Timepiece Mechanix is part of the American Society of Jewelers and Gemologists and Ethical Metalsmiths. Bill studied at the Miami Jewelry Institute and the Gemological Institute of America as well as apprenticed with many accomplished craftspeople. This article has been viewed 236,161 times.
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Co-authors: 12
Updated: May 13, 2024
Views: 236,161
Categories: Cleaning Jewelry
Article SummaryX

To clean costume jewelry using the dry clean method, start by scrubbing the jewelry with a baby toothbrush to remove any caked on dirt. Alternatively, spray away the dirt and dust with a can of compressed air, or use a toothpick to carefully remove small bits of grime. For more stubborn dirt, use a toothbrush to gently scrub the surface with a solution of soap and lukewarm water. Then, use non-acetone nail polish remover to clean any stuck-on grime. To learn how to polish your jewelry, keep reading!

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Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 236,161 times.

Reader Success Stories

  • Anonymous

    Anonymous

    Oct 16, 2016

    "Using gentle dish soap is effective; baby shampoo is good too. Rinsing it quickly to avoid loosening glued in..." more
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