Jewelry Care & Cleaning Guide — 14K Gold, Cubic Zirconia & Enamel
Keep your 14K solid gold jewelry, cubic zirconia (CZ) pieces, and enamel-color jewelry looking their best with the simple care tips below. This page follows our standard sizing, spacing, and typography so it blends seamlessly with the rest of our site.
Quick Care Rules (Good Habits)
- Last on, first off: Put jewelry on after skincare, perfume, and hairspray; remove first when undressing.
- Avoid chemicals: Chlorine, bleach, ammonia, acetone, alcohol, and harsh cleaners can dull or damage jewelry.
- Remove before: Swimming, hot tubs, gym workouts, manual labor, and sleeping.
- Rinse after sweat or saltwater: Freshwater rinse + pat dry to prevent film buildup.
- Store separately: Use a soft pouch/box to prevent scratches and chips.
How to Care for 14K Solid Gold Jewelry
14K gold is durable for everyday wear. Over time, normal contact with lotions, soaps, and skin oils can reduce shine. A gentle clean restores luster quickly.
Routine Cleaning (Safe for plain gold)
- Prepare a bowl of warm water + a drop of mild, pH-neutral dish soap.
- Soak the jewelry for 5–10 minutes.
- Gently brush with a very soft toothbrush (avoid aggressive scrubbing).
- Rinse well under lukewarm water.
- Pat dry with a lint-free cloth, then finish with a non-abrasive jewelry polishing cloth.
Extra Tips
- Semi-hollow or hollow link chains/bracelets: Avoid crushing pressure and heavy pulls; store flat in a pouch.
- Ultrasonic/steam cleaners: Generally fine for plain solid gold with no stones or enamel. Do not use for pieces with gemstones, pavé, or enamel (see sections below).
- Scratches: Light surface marks are normal with wear. We can advise on professional polishing—contact info@regalfinejewelry.com.
How to Care for Jewelry with Gemstones (Cubic Zirconia, etc.)
Cubic zirconia (CZ) is brilliant and durable, but like any faceted stone it can collect oils and soap film, reducing sparkle. Settings with small stones (pavé/micro-pavé) need gentle care.
Safe Cleaning for Gemstone & CZ Pieces
- Mix warm water + a drop of mild, pH-neutral soap.
- Dip a soft toothbrush and gently brush under the stones and around prongs.
- Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap (leftover film dulls sparkle).
- Pat dry with a lint-free cloth; let air-dry completely before storing.
Do / Don’t
- Do: Clean regularly if you use lotions, hairsprays, or wear jewelry daily.
- Don’t: Use toothpaste, baking soda, or abrasive powders (they scratch metal and stones).
- Don’t: Use ultrasonic or steam on pavé/micro-pavé or glued settings, as vibration/heat can loosen stones.
How to Care for Enamel-Color Jewelry
Enamel is a glass-like or resin color layer applied to metal. It’s beautiful but needs extra care to avoid chips and chemical damage.
Cleaning Enamel Pieces
- Wipe with a soft, slightly damp cloth to remove fingerprints and dust.
- If needed, use a drop of mild soap on the cloth; avoid soaking.
- Rinse cloth, wipe again to remove any soap residue, and dry immediately.
Important Precautions
- Avoid solvents: No acetone, alcohol, or harsh cleaners—they can dull or lift enamel.
- No ultrasonic/steam: Heat and vibration can crack enamel or weaken the bond.
- Avoid impacts & thermal shock: Don’t drop; keep away from sudden temperature changes (sauna, hot water then cold rinse).
- Storage: Store enamel pieces separately in a soft pouch to prevent chipping/scratching.
Storage & Travel
- Separate compartments: Use soft pouches or lined boxes—gold can scratch when pieces rub together.
- Dry before storing: Moisture can encourage film buildup on stones and dull metal.
- Travel cases: Use a zip pouch or travel jewelry roll; avoid tossing jewelry loose in a bag.
Questions about a specific piece? Email info@regalfinejewelry.com—we’re happy to help.
FAQs
Can I wear 14K gold jewelry in the shower?
You can, but soap and shampoo leave a film that dulls shine. We recommend removing jewelry before showering and cleaning it regularly for maximum luster.
Is an ultrasonic cleaner safe for my jewelry?
Ultrasonic is generally safe for plain 14K gold without stones or enamel. Do not use on gemstone/CZ pavé, glued settings, or enamel pieces. When in doubt, use warm soapy water or contact us.
What about pools and hot tubs?
Always remove jewelry before swimming or hot tubs. Chlorine and high heat can damage metal and settings over time.
How do I keep cubic zirconia sparkling?
Clean with warm water, a drop of mild soap, and a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a lint-free cloth. Avoid abrasives and ultrasonic for pavé/micro-pavé.
How should I clean enamel-color jewelry?
Wipe gently with a soft damp cloth; a tiny drop of mild soap is okay. Do not soak, and avoid acetone, alcohol, ultrasonic, steam, and sudden temperature changes.
Need Personalized Care Advice?
Email info@regalfinejewelry.com with a quick photo of your piece, and we’ll recommend the safest cleaning method or professional services.
