How to Clean Tarnished Rhinestone Jewelry
Rhinestone jewelry is inexpensive and fun to wear, but over time it may become dull or tarnished from exposure to the elements. If you are concerned about your rhinestone jewelry turning into a dull or dingy piece, it is important to know how to clean it properly and store it in the best way possible to keep it from becoming tarnished again. You can easily restore your jewelry to its original beauty with the help of everyday household items.
Before cleaning your rhinestone jewelry, lay it out on a flat dry cloth or towel and carefully brush it off with a dry cosmetic brush to remove any dust or grime that has settled onto the surface of the stones. You can also use a jewelry cleaner that is specially made for costume jewelry to safely and effectively clean your jewelry. However, it is important to note that some jewelry cleaners contain chemicals that could damage your rhinestones or tarnishing metal. If you are unsure of what kind of cleaner to use, be sure to consult a professional.
Many jewelry stores and home cleaners offer specially made products specifically for rhinestones that are both safe and effective at removing tarnish from costume jewelry. These products usually contain a solution of water, vinegar and salt. You can also use a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water to soak your jewelry. Just be careful not to get the solution into any prongs on the back of the jewelry that are holding the stones in place. The acid in the vinegar can ruin the foil and cause the stones to fall out of their setting.
You can clean most tarnishing on costume jewelry by dipping it in a mixture of water, vinegar and salt. This solution works very well to remove tarnish from most types of costume jewelry, but you should avoid using this method on pieces that have fragile stone settings or glue. If you are concerned about the effects of the acid on your jewelry, you can also try using a mild detergent such as liquid dish soap to clean your tarnished costume jewelry.
Another great option for cleaning rhinestone jewelry is to use toothpaste. Apply a thin layer of toothpaste to your tarnished jewelry and scrub it thoroughly with an old toothbrush or Q-tip. The abrasiveness of the toothpaste can get rid of a lot of the dirt on your rhinestone jewelry. Once you are done, rinse the jewelry and then pat it dry with a soft cloth. It is also a good idea to store your rhinestone jewelry in a clean, dry place that is away from any harsh chemicals or temperature extremes. The constant changing of temperatures can cause your jewelry to tarnish faster. Avoid spraying deodorants, hairsprays or perfumes near your rhinestone jewelry as they can stick to the stones and accelerate tarnishing. If you are storing your jewelry in a box, be sure that the boxes are separated so that they do not rub against each other and scratch or chip the pieces.
