How to Clean White Gold Over Silver
White gold over silver is a popular choice for jewelry lovers because it offers the beauty of white gold with the affordability of silver. However, keeping it clean and maintaining its shine can be tricky, as both metals have unique properties. In this guide, we will explain how to clean white gold over silver to ensure it remains lustrous for years to come.
What is White Gold Over Silver
White gold over silver refers to jewelry where a thin layer of white gold is applied over a silver base. This combination gives the appearance of luxurious white gold while benefiting from the durability and affordability of silver. The white gold coating provides extra protection to the silver, which is known to tarnish when exposed to air, moisture, and chemicals.
White gold is an alloy of gold mixed with metals such as nickel or palladium to give it its silvery-white appearance. It is often plated with rhodium, a highly reflective metal, to enhance its shine and protect it from scratches and wear. Over time, the rhodium plating can wear off, exposing the underlying white gold and, eventually, the silver base.
Because white gold over silver consists of two different metals, it requires special care to avoid damage. Cleaning both the white gold and the silver underneath needs to be done with care to avoid scratching the surface or tarnishing the silver.
Understanding the Composition of White Gold Over Silver
White Gold Plating
White gold plating is usually applied in a thin layer over a silver base to give the jewelry a more luxurious appearance. The white gold plating is typically only a few microns thick, which means that the silver underneath can become exposed if the plating is damaged or worn away. This makes cleaning white gold over silver a delicate process—using harsh cleaners or scrubbing too vigorously can scratch the white gold and potentially reveal the silver underneath.
Silver as the Base Metal
Silver is known for its bright, shiny appearance, but it is also prone to tarnishing. Tarnish occurs when silver reacts with sulfur or oxygen in the air, causing it to develop a dull, dark surface. When silver is used as the base for white gold plated jewelry, tarnish can occur underneath the white gold layer. If the white gold begins to wear away, the tarnished silver may show through and affect the overall look of the piece.
While white gold plating helps protect the silver from tarnishing, improper cleaning or neglect can lead to damage to both metals. The key to maintaining white gold over silver jewelry is to clean it regularly and properly, ensuring both the white gold and the silver are cared for without causing damage.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Clean White Gold Over Silver
To ensure that you clean your white gold over silver jewelry correctly, follow this step-by-step guide.
Preparation
- Gather Cleaning Supplies:
- Soft, lint-free cloth.
- Mild dish soap (preferably unscented and without harsh chemicals).
- Lukewarm water.
- Soft-bristled toothbrush (optional for intricate designs).
- Jewelry polishing cloth designed for white gold.
- Inspect the Jewelry:
- Before cleaning, examine the jewelry for signs of wear or damage. Look for areas where the white gold may have worn away, exposing the silver underneath.
- If the white gold layer is significantly damaged, consider taking the piece to a professional jeweler for re-plating rather than attempting to clean it at home.
Cleaning Process
Step 1:
- Create a solution of lukewarm water and a few drops of mild dish soap.
- Place the jewelry in the solution and let it soak for about 20-30 minutes. This will help loosen any dirt or grime that has accumulated on the surface.
Step 2:
- After soaking, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently clean the jewelry. Focus on intricate areas where dirt and oils may have collected.
- Be sure to scrub lightly, especially on the white gold layer, to avoid scratching or damaging the delicate surface.
- Pay extra attention to any areas that may show signs of tarnishing, but avoid over-scrubbing.
Step 3:
- Rinse the jewelry under cool, running water to remove any soap residue.
- Make sure all soap is removed, as any remaining residue can cause the silver to tarnish or dull the white gold.
- Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently pat the jewelry dry. Avoid rubbing, as this can cause scratches.
Step 4:
- Once dry, use a jewelry polishing cloth specifically designed for white gold to gently buff the jewelry.
- Rub the cloth in gentle, circular motions to restore the shine of the white gold layer.
- Avoid using regular polishing cloths meant for silver, as they may contain chemicals that can damage the white gold.
Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning White Gold Over Silver
People commonly repeat mistakes over and over leading to damages to the jewelry in the longer run.
Using Harsh Chemicals
Avoid using harsh chemicals such as bleach, ammonia, or jewelry cleaners not specifically designed for plated jewelry. These substances can strip away the white gold plating and even tarnish the silver underneath. So, you must avoid these chemicals at all costs.
Aggressive Scrubbing
Using rough brushes, abrasive cleaning pads, or even toothpaste (which is often recommended for cleaning silver) can scratch the surface of the white gold. Always use a soft cloth or brush and avoid applying too much pressure.
Why Should You Care For Your Jewelry
There are many reasons to care for your jewelry. Some of these are mentioned here.
1. Avoiding Scratches and Damage
The layer of white gold over silver is quite delicate, which means that aggressive cleaning can easily damage the surface. Abrasive materials can scratch the white gold, diminishing its shine and exposing the silver beneath. In extreme cases, the silver may begin to tarnish, giving the jewelry an unsightly appearance.
2. Preventing Tarnish
Silver is a metal that tarnishes when exposed to air and moisture, leading to a dark, dull surface. While the white gold plating provides some protection, any wear or damage to the coating can allow tarnish to form on the silver underneath. If the silver tarnishes, it can affect the overall look of the jewelry, dulling its appearance and making it look aged.
3. Preserving the Shine and Luster
White gold is prized for its brilliant shine, but this can quickly diminish if the jewelry is not cared for properly. Regular cleaning and gentle care are essential to maintaining the bright, reflective surface of white gold over silver. By following the proper cleaning techniques, you can preserve the luster of your jewelry and keep it looking as good as new.
Maintenance Tips for White Gold Over Silver
Maintenance tips will surely help you in keeping jewelry for long time.
1. Proper Storage
Store your white gold over silver jewelry in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight and moisture. Use anti-tarnish bags or cloth pouches to protect the jewelry from air exposure and minimize the risk of tarnish.
2. Regular Cleaning Schedule
Clean your white gold over silver jewelry at least once a month to prevent tarnish and maintain its shine. For frequently worn pieces, you may want to clean them more often, especially if exposed to lotions, perfumes, or sweat.
3. Avoiding Water
Avoid any contact with water when you are wearing your white gold plated jewelry. Remove the jewelry before swimming, bathing, or applying lotions and perfumes. Chlorine, saltwater, and chemicals in beauty products can all cause damage to the white gold and silver.
Conclusion
Cleaning and maintaining white gold over silver jewelry requires care and attention to detail. By using gentle cleaning methods and avoiding harsh chemicals, you can preserve the shine and luster of both the white gold and silver. Regular cleaning and proper storage will keep your jewelry looking beautiful for years to come. If the white gold plating begins to wear away, consult a professional jeweler to restore its brilliance.