Article: How to Clean Gold Filled Jewelry – Complete Step-by-Step Guide
How to Clean Gold Filled Jewelry – Complete Step-by-Step Guide
What is gold filled and why does it need special cleaning?
Gold-filled jewelry is made from a thick layer of 14K gold mechanically pressed over a base metal. The gold layer is up to 100 times thicker than plated jewelry, making it much more resistant to wear, fading, and oxidation. However, like any precious metal, gold-plated jewelry can accumulate dust, oil, or cosmetics. Regular, but gentle cleaning helps maintain its flawless appearance.
How to clean gold filled jewelry without pearls – step by step
1. Prepare a gentle solution
- Fill a small bowl with lukewarm (not hot) water.
- Add a few drops of mild liquid soap, without perfume or alcohol
2. Clean the jewelry
- If the piece is only made of gold filled, you can leave it to soak for 1–2 minutes
- Then, gently brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
3. Rinse and dry
- Rinse with clean lukewarm water.
- Blot with a soft cotton cloth.
- Polish gently with a special cloth for gold jewelry
How to clean gold filled jewelry containing pearls
If your jewelry contains natural or cultured pearls, as is the case with Atelier Devi necklaces: do not immerse it in water or use aggressive cleaning solutions. Pearls are organic, porous materials and sensitive to moisture, detergents or acids.
How to do it correctly:
1. Dampen a clean cotton cloth with lukewarm water and a little mild soap (note: only the part of the cloth that you will use to wipe the metal parts, not the pearls!)
2. Gently wipe the gold parts – no aggressive rubbing
3. With a cloth dampened with plain water only, gently wipe the pearls
4. Dry the jewelry by lightly patting it dry, then leave it completely flat to dry thoroughly.
To protect the gold layer and pearls:
• Do not use alcohol, toothpaste, baking soda or abrasive solutions
• Do not ultrasonically clean jewelry if it includes pearls
• Do not leave them in water or high humidity
• Do not use hard brushes or abrasive materials.
How often should gold filled jewelry be cleaned?
• Jewelry worn daily: every 2–3 weeks, light cleaning with a cloth
• Jewelry worn occasionally: monthly
• Wipe them gently after each wear if they have been in contact with perfume, cream or sweat
Bonus maintenance tips
• Keep them separately, in soft bags or padded boxes
• Avoid contact with water, cosmetics or detergents
• Put them on last when getting ready, and take them off first at the end of the day
• Don't wear them to the gym, pool or sea
Conclusion
Gold-filled jewelry is durable and versatile, and with gentle care, it will look flawless for years. If it includes pearls, take extra care: avoid soaking and clean only with soft cloths.
All Atelier Devi pieces are handmade, in small batches, from real materials. If you have any questions about the maintenance of your jewelry, you can write to us anytime — we are here for you.
