There is nothing as gorgeous as a vintage costume jewelry piece covered with rhinestones sparkling in the sun. But what if you buy a piece that you know is a treasure, but it needs a good cleaning? Or the wonderful piece you bought is not as sparkling after some time and a few wearings. How do you clean it and get it back to it's Glittering Glory?
Here are a few tips for taking care of your jewels!
*First, check for loose stones. If any are loose, they will need to be repaired so you may want to wait before cleaning.
*Next, you can use a glass cleaner or even mild soapy water. Do not submerge the jewelry in the water or spray the cleaner directly on the jewelry. Holding piece upside down if possible, clean from under the piece so moisture falls away from piece, not down in it. Spray some of the cleaner on a soft cloth making sure it does not get too damp. Some dirt in the crevices? Using a q-tip or soft bristle toothbrush just barely damp from the cleaner, brush softly over piece. If your piece should be set with aurora borealis stones, please do not use a toothbrush, as it may scratch the finish.
*Once your piece is sparkling clean, lay the piece on a soft, clean towel upside down. Let dry completely. If the piece got too damp during cleaning, you can use a hair blow dryer on the lowest setting.
*If there is any corrosion (or greening as jewelry people call it), You can use some ketchup keeping it away from the stones. The vinegar in the ketchup breaks down the corrosion while the thickness of the ketchup keep it right where you put it.
*If your piece is sterling, please use a polishing cloth or some paste silver cleaner and a soft cloth. Do not use a dip like tarnex as it leaves a dull looking film on piece.
* Once your jewel is cleaned and sparkling, store it in a soft zipper pouch, a baggie with an anti-tarnish cloth or preferably a silver chest with anti-tarnishing interior. A wood jewelry chest can cause strings on beads to rot over time and sometimes even stones to darken.
*Now that your jewels are sparkling clean, wear them with pleasure.
Costume Jewelry is not only wonderful to look at and wear, but it gives us a glimpse of times past. Vintage Jewelry also makes a wonderful, unique gift. There's nothing like the oh's and Ah's of opening a present with a new "Vintage" necklace and earring set. Wear a large rhinestone pin to work and watch what happens! It is a gift you can give, where every time the recipient wears it, they will remember "She (he,they) gave me this.
As a vintage junkie, I am addicted to things of the past. From vintage jewelry to pottery to glass, it all speaks to me. And best of all,when I buy or sell vintage, I am doing a little to help save the planet. Buy Vintage today for a better tomorrow!
