Cleaning your jewellery without necessary tools may damage it. Picture: Pexels.
Social media has become the go-to information hub for people looking for easy hacks. However, you don’t have to follow every trend you see because some may have adverse effects.
Certain things like cleaning jewellery should be left to professionals because attempting to do it yourself without proper tools may damage your pieces.
We’ve seen some videos on TikTok where people used toothpaste, lemon and baking soda to clean their jewellery.
An expert from Purely Diamonds believe that some of these hacks are ineffective and can actually do more harm than good to your precious pieces.
“Lemon juice is doing the rounds on social media as an effective way of cleaning tarnished jewellery, but it can do irreversible damage.
“The acidity is particularly harsh and can cause discolouration of gemstones. I would avoid lemon juice at all costs, especially when cleaning pearls, emeralds or morganite gemstone engagement rings,” said Emelie Tyler.
She added that toothpaste is not an option either because it is too abrasive.
“Using toothpaste to clean jewellery is gaining a lot of traction on social media sites like TikTok. However, it is one of the most damaging hacks I have seen.
“Not only is toothpaste too abrasive for delicate pieces of jewellery, but it can also cause micro-scratches over time, as well as leaving a chemical residue that can tarnish and discolour metals.”
Although it’s always best to get your jewellery thoroughly cleaned by a professional, dishwashing soap can be a temporary solution.
“I recommend cleaning your jewellery at home using dish soap and warm water. Fill a bowl with a small amount of washing-up liquid and warm water, then leave your ring or necklace to soak for around twenty minutes.
“Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently remove any dirt particles, rinse, and finish by gently brushing again to remove any soap suds or residue,” Tyler said.