Caring for gold jewelry: essential tips

Understanding your gold jewelry

Pure gold (24 karat) is too soft for everyday jewelry. That's why it's alloyed with other metals for increased resistance and hardness. 18-karat gold (75% pure gold) is the standard in quality European jewelry, while 14-karat gold (58.5% pure gold) is more common in North America. The nature of the alloy metals also determines color: copper gives rose gold, palladium or nickel creates white gold, and silver accentuates the yellow hue.

Each type of alloy reacts differently to daily wear. Rhodium-plated white gold, for example, gradually loses its rhodium layer and may reveal a slightly yellowish tint over months. Rose gold, rich in copper, can develop a subtle patina over time. Understanding your jewelry's composition is the first step to caring for it properly.

Gentle daily cleaning

A simple bath of lukewarm water (never hot) with a few drops of mild soap — Marseille soap or neutral dish soap — is sufficient for regular maintenance of your gold jewelry. Let your pieces soak for 15 to 20 minutes to dissolve residues from creams, soaps and perspiration accumulated daily.

After soaking, use a soft-bristled toothbrush (never hard bristles) to gently clean crevices, the underside of settings and chain links. Rinse thoroughly with clean water, then dry immediately with a clean microfiber cloth. Residual moisture can leave limescale traces and, in the case of white gold, accelerate rhodium wear.

A gold jewel worn daily imperceptibly accumulates the residues of life — creams, perfumes, soaps. A weekly cleaning is enough to restore all its original brilliance.

The baking soda method

For a deeper clean, prepare a light paste by mixing baking soda with a few drops of water. Apply gently with a soft cloth in circular motions, then rinse thoroughly. This method is particularly effective for yellow gold but should be avoided on rhodium-plated white gold, whose coating could be abraded.

What to absolutely avoid

Bleach, pool chlorine, household chemicals and perfumes are the sworn enemies of your gold jewelry. Chlorine, in particular, can cause irreversible discoloration and weaken the alloy structure. Always remove your jewelry before swimming in a pool or hot tub.

Perfumes and hair sprays contain alcohols and chemical components that tarnish gold and can damage precious stones. The golden rule is simple: your jewelry should be the last thing you put on in the morning and the first thing you take off at night. Also avoid wearing gold jewelry during cleaning, gardening or any sports activity.

Storage and preservation

Storing your gold jewelry deserves as much attention as cleaning it. Each piece should be kept individually in a soft fabric pouch or separate compartment of your jewelry box. Chains, in particular, should be fastened and laid flat to avoid knots and friction between links.

Avoid cardboard or untreated wood boxes, whose natural acidity can tarnish metal over time. Velvet or silk-lined cases are ideal. For long-term storage, wrap each piece in acid-free tissue paper and place a small anti-humidity sachet in the box.

When to see a professional

A professional ultrasonic cleaning is recommended once or twice a year for your most precious jewelry. The jeweler will also inspect the condition of prongs, clasps and settings — an essential check to prevent accidental stone loss.

White gold re-rhodium plating should be performed every 12 to 18 months depending on wear. This quick, affordable procedure restores your jewel's brilliant white original shine. Take advantage of this visit to have all your pieces checked and request a light polishing if needed.

A well-maintained jewel crosses generations. Today's simple gestures are the guarantee of tomorrow's brilliance — and the heritage you will pass on.