How to Clean Artificial Jewellery: Easy Tips to Keep Your Favorites Sparkling

Artificial jewellery allows you to enjoy elegance without breaking the bank. But unlike fine gold or silver, imitation jewellery tends to lose its charm with time. If you’ve been searching for how to clean artificial jewellery safely and effectively, you’re in the right place. This guide is designed to help you restore the shine of your favorite pieces at home without professional help.

Whether it’s bridal Kundan sets, statement chokers, or your go-to everyday studs, artificial jewellery needs the right care to last. At Emporia Jewels, we believe imitation pieces deserve the same love as real ones. That’s why we’ve created this complete, step-by-step guide on how to clean artificial jewellery—perfect for every jewellery lover looking to preserve sparkle and style.

Why Does Artificial Jewellery Tarnish?

To truly understand how to clean artificial jewellery, it helps to know what causes it to tarnish in the first place. Imitation jewellery often consists of base metals like brass, copper, or alloy, and a thin outer layer of polish or plating. These materials are more sensitive to daily wear and environmental elements.

Common reasons why artificial jewellery tarnishes:

Exposure to air and humidity causes oxidation, which dulls the surface.
Contact with water, sweat, and skin oils speeds up discoloration.
Spraying perfumes or using lotions while wearing jewellery can weaken the finish.
Wearing the same pieces frequently without cleaning causes buildup of grime.
Poor storage habits like leaving jewellery in open air accelerates tarnish.

Understanding these factors will help you take better care of your imitation pieces and apply the right method when learning how to clean artificial jewellery.

Checklist Before You Start Cleaning Artificial Jewellery

Before diving into different methods, take a moment to prepare your cleaning kit and understand your jewellery’s material. This ensures the process is safe and effective.

Here’s what to do before cleaning:

Identify the type of artificial jewellery: Is it gold-plated, silver-toned, brass, copper, or Kundan?
Gather basic tools: soft toothbrush, cotton swabs, microfiber cloth, a small bowl, and lukewarm water.
Choose mild cleaning agents: baby shampoo, lemon juice, white vinegar, baking soda, or dish soap.
Avoid harsh substances: never use alcohol, ammonia, acetone, or bleach-based cleaners.
Clean one item at a time to avoid scratches or metal reactions.

Once you’ve completed this checklist, you’re ready to move forward with how to clean artificial jewellery safely at home.

How to Clean Artificial Jewellery at Home – Step-by-Step Methods

There are several tried-and-true methods to clean different types of artificial jewellery. Each method works best depending on the material and level of tarnish. Follow the steps carefully to get the best results.

1. Lemon Juice Method

Ideal for brass and silver-tone jewellery that has turned dark or greenish.
Mix equal parts of lemon juice and warm water.
Dip a cotton swab or cloth into the solution and gently wipe the jewellery.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry with a soft cloth.
Do not use this method for jewellery with glued stones, as it may loosen the adhesive.

This method is effective for those wanting to know how to clean artificial jewellery naturally using kitchen ingredients.

2. Mild Shampoo or Baby Shampoo Method

Safe for gold-plated or delicate imitation jewellery.
Mix a few drops of baby shampoo with lukewarm water.
Use a soft toothbrush to gently scrub the jewellery, focusing on crevices.
Rinse well and pat dry with a microfiber cloth.
Avoid soaking for too long.

This gentle method is perfect for regular cleaning and is often recommended as a go-to technique for how to clean artificial jewellery at home.

3. Vinegar and Baking Soda Method

Best for tough tarnish on heavy-duty pieces like costume chains or metallic bangles.
Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with a few drops of white vinegar to form a paste.
Apply the paste on the jewellery and scrub gently using a soft brush.
Let it sit for 5–10 minutes, then rinse and dry.

This DIY method is excellent for anyone wondering how to clean artificial jewellery that has developed thick grime or discoloration over time.

4. Dish Soap Method for Everyday Jewellery

Great for cleaning perfume residue and daily dirt buildup.
Add a few drops of mild dish soap to a bowl of warm water.
Soak the jewellery for 5–7 minutes, then clean with a soft toothbrush.
Rinse thoroughly and let air dry or pat dry with a soft cloth.

If you’re looking for a basic, everyday solution for how to clean artificial jewellery, this is one of the safest and simplest techniques.

5. Toothpaste Method for Polishing Fake Gold

Useful for polishing fake gold or imitation chains and earrings.
Apply a small amount of non-gel, non-abrasive toothpaste on a soft cloth.
Rub gently over the surface to bring back shine.
Rinse and wipe dry.

Use this method sparingly and avoid using whitening or grainy toothpaste that could scratch the surface. It’s a quick fix when you’re in a rush and still want your jewellery to shine.

How to Clean Kundan and Stone-Studded Jewellery

When it comes to stone-studded or Kundan jewellery, you must be extra cautious. These are typically delicate and not water-resistant.

To clean Kundan or gemstone imitation jewellery:

Do not soak in any liquid.
Use a soft, dry cotton swab to clean dust or buildup around stones.
For tougher dirt, dip the swab slightly in diluted baby shampoo and gently dab.
Wipe with a dry, clean cloth immediately.
Avoid scrubbing or using any brushes that might loosen the stones or enamel.

Gentle care is the golden rule when learning how to clean artificial jewellery with intricate detailing.

Storage and Aftercare Tips for Artificial Jewellery

Cleaning is only half the battle. How you store and care for your jewellery afterwards determines how long it stays looking new.

Essential aftercare practices:

Store each piece separately in soft cloth pouches or zip-lock bags.
Use anti-tarnish paper strips or silica gel pouches in your jewellery box.
Keep jewellery away from direct sunlight, heat, or humid environments.
Always apply lotions, deodorants, and perfumes before wearing your jewellery.
Wipe down jewellery with a soft cloth after each use to remove oils or sweat.

Consistent care makes all the difference when it comes to how to clean artificial jewellery and extend its life.

Expert Tips to Preserve Your Artificial Jewellery

If the polish starts fading, apply a coat of clear nail polish on the non-stone areas to add a protective layer.
Avoid wearing artificial jewellery while bathing, swimming, or doing household chores.
Rotate your collection so that no single piece gets excessive use.
Use a soft makeup brush for quick, dry cleaning of delicate jewellery.
Keep a cleaning kit handy with mild shampoo, cloth, and brush for weekly maintenance.

Practicing these small habits ensures you won’t need to ask how to clean artificial jewellery as often, because you’ll prevent tarnish before it starts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people unknowingly damage their jewellery during cleaning. Here’s what not to do:

Never soak stone-studded jewellery in water or cleaning solution.
Don’t use alcohol, acetone, or bleach-based chemicals.
Avoid hard-bristled brushes that can scratch the surface.
Do not use hot water, which can weaken glue and loosen embellishments.
Don’t rub jewellery with paper towels—they’re too rough and may cause abrasions.

Avoiding these common pitfalls will help you learn how to clean artificial jewellery the right way and preserve its charm.

Explore Sparkle that Lasts with Emporia Jewels

Looking for imitation jewellery that’s as stunning as the real thing? Discover Emporia Jewels, India’s go-to destination for bridal, trendy, and affordable artificial jewellery. Whether it’s your wedding day or everyday glam, we’ve got something special for you.

Shop now at EmporiaJewels.in and enjoy 5% off your first purchase with the code Hi5. Because your jewellery should shine as brightly as you do.

Conclusion

Now that you’ve learned how to clean artificial jewellery at home, maintaining your favourite pieces has never been easier. With the right techniques and proper care, even the most delicate imitation pieces can stay shiny and wearable for years.

Treat your artificial jewellery with love—it deserves it.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. How to clean artificial jewellery with home ingredients?

Use lemon juice, baking soda, vinegar, or baby shampoo diluted in water. These natural solutions are safe when used correctly.

Q2. Can I clean fake gold jewellery with toothpaste?

Yes, as long as it’s a non-gel and non-abrasive toothpaste. Rub gently and avoid using on stone-studded jewellery.

Q3. What’s the safest way to clean Kundan jewellery?

Avoid water. Use a dry cotton swab or slightly damp cloth with diluted baby shampoo to gently clean around stones.

Q4. How often should I clean my artificial jewellery?

Clean every 3–4 wears or at least once a month. Regular wiping helps avoid deep tarnish.

Q5. Can I use dish soap to clean imitation jewellery?

Yes. Mix a few drops in lukewarm water, soak for a few minutes, and gently scrub with a soft toothbrush.

Q6. Why does my artificial jewellery turn green or black?

This is due to oxidation and exposure to sweat, moisture, and chemicals. Proper storage and cleaning help prevent this.

Q7. Is baby shampoo safe for all types of artificial jewellery?

Yes, it’s one of the gentlest cleaners and works well on most imitation jewellery, especially gold-finished ones.

Q8. How do I make my artificial jewellery last longer?

Clean regularly, store properly, avoid contact with water and chemicals, and handle with care after every use.