Gold earrings never go out of style. They're classic, elegant, and often carry sentimental value.
But over time, even the finest gold can lose its sparkle, collect grime, and appear dull.
This blog will spill everything you need to know about cleaning gold earrings the right way so you can preserve your investment.
Why You Should Clean Your Gold Earrings Regularly
Gold doesn’t tarnish easily, but it does collect oils, sweat, dust, and makeup residue.
This buildup dulls its shine and can even irritate your skin. Regular cleaning keeps your earrings brilliant and safe to wear especially around sensitive areas like the earlobes.
What Causes Gold Earrings to Tarnish?
Gold itself doesn’t tarnish but most gold jewelry isn’t 100% pure.
It’s mixed with other metals like copper or silver for strength.
These alloys react with moisture, air, and chemicals, leading to dullness or discoloration.
The top culprits that cause gold to tarnish include:
- Perfume, lotion, and hairspray
- Chlorinated water (hello, swimming pool)
- Sweat and natural body oils
Understanding Gold Purity
Gold purity is measured in karats (K). You can learn more in this blog.
24K is pure gold but too soft for daily wear.
18K/14K/10K is gold mixed with other metals. They are durable, but more prone to tarnish
The lower the karat, the more metal alloys and the more care required.
Can Water Damage Gold Earrings?
Pure gold is water-resistant. But alloyed gold? Not so much.
Hard water and chlorine can erode the gold finish and leave your earrings looking rough.
Moisture also encourages bacteria buildup, especially around clasps or behind stones, potentially causing irritation or infections.
How to Clean Gold Earrings at Home (Step-by-Step)
Here’s your go-to cleaning routine using items you probably already have at home. You’ll need:
- Mild dish soap
- Warm water
- Soft toothbrush
- Microfiber cloth
- Small bowl
- Baking soda (optional)
- Non-abrasive toothpaste (optional)
Basic Cleaning Steps
- Mix warm water with a few drops of dish soap.
- Soak earrings for 15–20 minutes.
- Gently scrub with a soft toothbrush.
- Rinse under lukewarm water.
- Pat dry with a microfiber cloth. Let air-dry completely.
Deep Cleaning Options
Baking Soda Method
- Mix 1 tbsp baking soda with a few drops of water to form a paste.
- Gently rub onto earrings.
- Rinse thoroughly and dry.
Toothpaste Method
- Use a small amount of non-abrasive toothpaste on a soft brush.
- Scrub gently, rinse, and dry.
- Avoid this method if your earrings have stones especially soft ones like pearls or opals.
How to Clean Blackened Gold Earrings
Sometimes gold develops a dark film especially if exposed to sulfur, sweat, or skincare products. Here's how to fix that:
Steps:
- Soak in warm soapy water.
- Gently scrub with a soft brush.
- For stubborn spots, use a baking soda paste.
- Rinse and polish with a microfiber cloth.
- Avoid vinegar, bleach, or harsh cleaners. They can permanently damage the metal.
Cleaning Gold Earrings with Stones or Diamonds
Gemstones require extra care. Here's how to clean them safely:
For Delicate Gems (pearls, opals, emeralds)
- No soaking.
- Use a damp, soapy cloth to wipe gently.
- Dry immediately with a soft cloth.
- Skip ultrasonic cleaners unless your jeweler gives the green light.
For Diamond Earrings
- Soak in warm soapy water.
- Brush gently around the setting.
- Rinse well and dry.
- Still cloudy? Dip a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol and gently polish the diamond.
How to Restore Shine to Gold Earrings
Polishing Tips
- Use a gold polishing cloth (available at jewelry stores).
- Rub in small circles gently.
- Avoid over-polishing gold-plated pieces (it thins the layer).
Natural DIY Shine Boosters
- Mix lemon juice + baking soda into a gentle paste.
- Or rub a bit of olive oil on a soft cloth and buff lightly.
- Always spot-test first.
Tips for Daily Maintenance
- Storage: Use a soft-lined jewelry box. And keep each earring separated to avoid scratches.
- Humidity Control: Place your earrings in a pouch with silica gel or anti-tarnish strips. This will absorb excess moisture and help maintain a dry environment.
- Before You Wear: Avoid perfume or hairspray contact.
- Before You Sweat: Take them off before workouts, swimming, or cleaning.
- Check Regularly: Inspect clasps and prongs to avoid surprise losses.
What NOT to Do When Cleaning Gold Earrings
- Don’t use bleach, vinegar, or harsh cleaners
- Skip abrasive brushes or sponges
- Don’t soak earrings with fragile stones
- Avoid over-polishing gold-plated pieces
How to Clean Different Types of Gold Earrings
Plain Gold Earrings (Studs, hoops)
- Soak, scrub gently, rinse, and dry.
- Buff with a dry cloth for extra glow.
Gold Earrings with Diamonds
- Clean around the setting carefully.
- Use rubbing alcohol for added shine.
Gold Earrings with Gemstones
- No soaking. Wipe gently with a damp, soapy cloth.
- Dry immediately to prevent water spots.
Gold Earrings with Pearls or Opals
- No water immersion. Wipe gently with a damp cloth.
- Store away from direct heat or sunlight.
Gold-Plated Earrings
- Avoid soaking or scrubbing.
- Wipe lightly with a damp cloth.
- Store in individual pouches to reduce wear.
Keep Your Gold Earrings Radiant
With the right care, your gold earrings can stay stunning for years to come.
If you’re looking to add more sparkle to your collection, check out our store for beautiful gold earrings.