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The Mine

Welcome to The Mine, a digital magazine where you can explore the exciting world of precious metals and enjoy unearthing the mysteries and beauty behind the world’s most sacred commodities.

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How to clean a chain necklace

The relentless march of time has many victims, not least your favourite precious-metal chain necklace. While pure gold and platinum don’t tarnish, they can still accumulate dirt and contaminants over time that can seriously diminish their shine. 

Luckily, keeping your chain necklace gleaming and pristine is easier than you think. Whether it's gold or platinum, regular cleaning is essential to maintain its lustre and prolong its life. 

So don’t let dirt and wear get in the way of your glamour. We'll walk you through the steps to clean your chain necklace so it looks brand new and beautiful.

Why should I clean my chain necklace?

Like washing a car, carpet, or even your own body, cleaning your chain necklace is more than just about aesthetics. It’s about keeping it in a good condition so it stays in a good condition, and preventing premature wear and tear.

Regular maintenance helps preserve the metal's integrity and shine, preventing the build-up of dirt and oils that can cause damage over time. Routine upkeep can significantly extend the lifespan of your pieces. 

By taking care of your jewellery, you ensure that each piece remains a timeless part of your collection, allowing you to enjoy its beauty for many years.

How to clean a gold chain necklace

We’re all well-versed in the advantages of pure gold necklaces—they are undeniably beautiful and don’t react with the elements over time—but they need regular care to maintain their sparkle. 

Generally, cleaning your necklace once a month is sufficient to keep it shining. However, if you wear your necklace every day, it’s best to clean it more frequently, about every two weeks, to prevent excessive buildup of dirt and oils.

Here’s how we recommend keeping your gold chain looking its best:

  1. Gather your supplies: You'll need a soft cloth, a small bowl, mild dish soap, warm water, and a soft-bristle brush (like a toothbrush).
  2. Prepare a cleaning solution: In a bowl, mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage your precious gold.
  3. Soak your necklace: Place your gold chain in the soapy water and let it soak for about 15-20 minutes. This helps loosen any dirt or oils.
  4. Gently brush your chain: After soaking, use a soft-bristled brush to scrub the chain gently, paying attention to any crevices or intricate parts.
  5. Rinse and dry: Rinse the necklace thoroughly with warm water to remove any soap residue. Pat dry with a soft cloth and let it air dry completely before storing or wearing it again.

Note: Pure gold is less likely to tarnish, but the presence of other metals in gold alloys can affect how it ages. Regular cleaning helps keep any gold chain, regardless of its purity, looking brilliant.

How to clean a platinum chain necklace

Platinum is known for its durability and shine, but like its close cousin, gold, it also benefits from regular cleaning. 

Cleaning your platinum chain every three to four months is usually enough for occasional wear. However, if you wear your chain regularly, consider cleaning it once a month to maintain its lustre. 

As with gold, you should follow the steps above to keep your platinum chain in top condition. The fact that gold and platinum care is so similar means that it’s easy to clean all your jewellery in one sitting, if you need. 

Note: Platinum doesn’t tarnish, but it can develop a patina over time. Regular cleaning keeps it looking sleek and shiny.

Professional jewellers, cleaning, and maintenance

We get it; sometimes, a quick soak and a gentle polish don’t quite cut it. For deep cleaning and maintenance, especially for intricate or high-value pieces, consider taking your jewellery to a professional jeweller. 

They have the expertise and tools to clean your jewellery thoroughly without risking damage. Regular professional cleanings can also help identify and address any wear or potential issues early on.

Yes, this is a pricier option than an at-home bubble bath, but it’s a worthwhile investment. 

Steps to care for your jewellery

Maintaining your jewellery doesn’t stop at cleaning. Mindful and careful handling, wear and care will extend its lifespan. 

Here are a few tips to keep your pieces in top condition:

  • Wear with care and rotate your jewellery so you don’t over-wear specific pieces. 
  • Store jewellery in a dry, cool place, preferably in a jewellery box or pouch.
  • Avoid exposing your jewellery to harsh chemicals, perfumes, or lotions.
  • Remove jewellery before swimming or bathing to prevent exposure to chlorine and saltwater.
  • Regularly inspect your pieces for any signs of wear or damage.

Don’t worry, we’ve got more tips like this in our article dedicated to caring for pure gold and platinum jewellery

Regain your golden glow 

King Canute couldn't hold back the sea, the sands of an hourglass can't be stopped from falling, and you can't prevent your jewellery from getting dirty with wear. However, cleaning your chain necklaces regularly allows you to turn back the clock and keep them sparkling and in excellent condition for years to come. 

If you’re looking for a low-maintenance chain, check out our pure gold or platinum chain necklaces

And remember, a little effort goes a long way in preserving the beauty and brilliance of your cherished jewellery. Whether gold or platinum, following these simple steps, ensures your jewellery remains a cherished part of your collection.