I'm proud to identify as a gold-jewelry girl. Don't get me wrong, though. I have no animosity towards the silver and rose-gold gals. I, too, wear those metals every now and then — but as bias as it sounds, gold remains as my most worn metal out of them all.
If you can relate, you're in the right place. We're dedicated to the craft of wearing our gold pieces like holiday ornaments — and with that dedication comes tarnish and less shine over time.
Therefore, the question remains: How do you clean gold jewelry? That's where we cue our jewelry experts who reveal all the do's and don'ts to your at-home jewelry-care routine.
Keep reading to discover their suggestions, plus some expert- and editor-loved jewelry cleaning supplies, statement pieces and more.
How to clean gold jewelry | Best products for jewelry maintenance | Editor-favorite gold jewelry | How we chose | Meet the experts
How to clean gold jewelry at home
"It’s common that gold jewelry loses its shine over time, but it’s actually easy to clean gold jewelry at home," suggests Ann Dai, the Director of Product Development and Production at Studs. And it is more simple than you might think — you might even own all of the supplies already.
"You can put the gold jewelry pieces in warm water with a few drops of dishwashing liquid or detergent soap ," she continues. "After soaking it for 15 to 30 minutes, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to give the jewelry a gentle scrub. Then, dry with a lint-free cloth. This simple process will bring back the brilliance!"
And to maintain its shine, Trisha Okubo, an engineer and jewelry designer, recommends buffing it with a soft cloth after wearing. "If you got sweat or sunscreen or other chemicals on it, give it a quick rinse in lukewarm water and dry it with a soft cloth" she adds.
However, sometimes accidents happen, so "if your gold jewelry is scratched, you will need to bring it to a jeweler for a professional polishing," adds Olivia Landau, a diamond expert and the founder of The Clear Cut.
It is recommended by our experts to deep clean your jewelry using the above methods. You should also be mindful of the gold type before cleansing. “Gold-plated or vermeil jewelry will tarnish over time and should never be washed or worn in water,” suggests Landau. That’s because these types of jewelry aren’t considered “fine," so it is best to use a polishing cloth to clean these types. But, "if you dry your jewelry quickly, it’s worth the tradeoff," says Okubo.
However, there are some supplies to maintain your jewelry routinely. Below are some top-rated picks our editors love.
Best products for jewelry maintenance, according to experts and editors
For an on-the-go cleaning: Connoisseurs Diamond Dazzle Stik
- Great for on-the-go
- Gentle bristles and formula
- Have to twist it to get it out
Formula type: Gel | Key ingredients: N/A | Size: .05 oz. | Compatible with: All jewelry
In-between her deep cleans with her jeweler, senior partnerships editor Francesca Cocchi Zabloudil uses Diamond Dazzle for routine cleaning of her gold wedding band and ring. "It quickly gets rid of any grease and grime from my skin care products, cooking and other everyday tasks, leaving my rings looking shinier and more polished," she boasts. "I like the pen format since it’s easy to toss in a travel bag."
When you need a quick clean: MagicFiber Microfiber Cleaning Cloth
- Comes in different packs
- Very soft
- Can be used for glasses & more
Material: Microfiber | Size: 6” x 7” | Comes with: 6 cloths; multiple packs available | Compatible with: All gold jewelry
"For a quick clean, I use what I already have at home: dish soap, a soft toothbrush, and a microfiber cleaning cloth," explains Okubo. "The microfiber cleaning cloth is gentle enough to not scratch the surface of your jewelry."
For removing tarnish: Connoisseurs All-Purpose Jewelry Gold Polishing Cloth
- Great for removing tarnish
- Gently polishes
- Will need to buy replacements
Material: Foam | Size: 14" x 14" | Comes with: 1 cloth | Compatible with: All gold jewelry
Gold vermeil and plated jewelry might be more affordable than higher gold types, but with that means they have the tendency to tarnish. One of my favorite products for removing stubborn tarnish is this polish cloth from Connoisseurs. All you need to do is gently rub the cloth along your jewelry, and voilà! My jewelry is shining like brand new.
Although you’ll need a few of them to clean multiple jewelry, it is well worth the investment, considering they’re soft, gentle and at a reasonable price.
An editor-favorite cleanser: Shinery Radiance Wash
Formula type: Cleanser | Key ingredients: Glycerin | Size: 3.3 oz. | Compatible with: All jewelry
Shinery's jewelry cleaner is loved by many members of the Shop TODAY team, and we bet you will, too (Oprah even had it in her 2023 list of favorite things). One Shop TODAY writer, Emily Orofino, reviewed the wash and put it to use on her ring and earrings. To see the results, the solution is suggested to be applied like you would hand soap (you can also use a cotton pad). As you scrub your hands, your jewelry will be cleansed, too.
The results are worth checking out, as the wash benefits your skin (it contains moisturizing skin care ingredients, such as glycerin) and delicate pieces.
An innovative cleaner: Kohe Ultrasonic Jewelry Cleaner
- Easy to use
- Enhances jewelry sparkle
- Can clean other small items
- Some say it is noisy
Material: Waterproof finishing on outer, stainless steel tank | Can hold: 12 oz. of water | Compatible with: Eyeglasses, dentures, watch coins, makeup brushes and other small items
What's most impressive about this jewelry cleaner (which our team put to the test) is that it just needs water to remove grime, dirt and more — yes, really! It claims to use high frequency waves to bring shine back to your beloved pieces, and can even be used on glasses, coins and more.
An expert-recommended cleaner: InvisiClean Ultrasonic Jewelry Cleaner
- Powerfull removes grime
- Non-abrasive cleaning
- Can clean outside of jewelry
Material: N/A | Key ingredients: None | Size: 27 oz. | Compatible with: All gold jewelry
"For a deeper clean, I love my ultrasonic cleaner, which does a great job of making my jewelry shine like new," explains Okubo. "I particularly like how it makes the stones in my jewelry shine — dirt can get lodged around and behind the setting, and an ultrasonic cleaner can make it shine like new."
For fine jewelry: Diamond Drunk Non-Toxic Fine Jewelry Cleaner
- Great for delicate pieces
- Has a place for hanging rings
- Gentle concentrate
- On the higher end
Material: 100% recyclable container; plant-based concentrate | Key ingredients: None | Size: 1 oz. | Compatible with: Diamond, gold and platinum jewelry
Specifically designed for cleaning diamond, gold and platinum jewelry, this cleaner comes with a vessel and concentrate that works together to clean delicate pieces with ease. But you don't have to do much work; the vessel has a cage that has hooks and an ear clip to hang rings and jewelry. Once they're set in place, pour the cleansing concentrate in, which Orofino called the "secret sauce."
"Once you’ve soaked your jewelry overnight, you can take it out of the vessel, give your pieces a little scrub with the petite brush, and rinse them off," she detailed. "The vessel doesn’t have a large footprint, so it won’t take up a lot of room on your bathroom counter, but it will add a bit of flair to it."
The cleaning solution is also vegan, non-toxic and plant-based.
Best gold jewelry, according to editors
If you're torn between multiple pairs: 17 Mile Gold Hoop Earrings Set
- Budget-friendly option
- Good for everyday wear
- Comes with multiple pairs
- Color fades easily
Metal: Gold-plated; brass; sterling silver pillars | Size: Varies | Closure: Hinge, buckle and push back | Features: Hypoallergenic and lead- and nickel-free
Associate editor Lauren Witonsky has a metal allergy, but because each of these earrings are hypoallergenic, she experienced no irritations. "No swelling, redness or itchiness, even when I had them on all day long," she noted.
Bit for just $13, this set is quite a steal, especially for all the pairs that you get. Witonsky said that outside of the price tag, the variety is what drew her attention, which ranges from twisted hoops to a classic oval pair. She said that "this set has pushed me to play with different earring designs than I’m used to."
Most trendy: Apsvo Chunky Teardrop Earrings
- On trend
- Affordable
- Can irritate certain ears
Metal: Gold-plated; brass | Size: 26mm to 52 mm | Closure: Push back | Features: Hypoallergenic
A current online style favorite, commerce writer Danielle Murphy is also a fan of the look. "I’m really digging this 'teardrop' shape and have been recently gravitating towards it instead of reaching for my go-to hoops," she said in a review. "They’re more lightweight, and if you’ve ever removed a medium-sized hoop at the end of a long day, you can appreciate the fact that I don’t experience any lobe soreness after hours of wear."
A lightweight pair: 8 Other Reasons Double Deluxe Chain Link Drop Earrings
- Lightweight
- Makes a statement
- Might be too big for some
Metal: 14-karat, gold-plated with rhodium platting | Size: 2" | Closure: Push back | Features: N/A
Because these drop earrings are hollow at the center, they're incredibly lightweight for a two-inch long pair. Some might find these a bit large for their preference, but I love how they are a statement themselves, and don't really need other jewelry to pair with. They steal the show on their own!
For stacking: BaubleBar Pisa Bracelet
- Stretches to wrist
- Budget friendly
- Comes in different sizes
- Will fade a bit
Metal: Gold-plated brass | Size: 4 mm to 6 mm | Features: Hypoallergenic, stretches
BaubleBar often has some amazing deals, so during one of their sales, I picked up this beaded bracelet for my mom and me to match. We wear this to think of each other, but it is also such a versatile pieces that I love stacking it with other bracelets, too. It looks good with everything!
Most customizable: Sequin Create Your Own Talisman
- Customizable
- Bracelet options
- Price varies
Metal: 22-karat, gold-dipped brass; varies based on base | Size: 14" to 22" | Closure: Lobster | Features: Can select from multiple charms
"I got a 'Talisman' necklace from Sequin as a Valentine’s Day gift and it’s basically the only jewelry I ever wear," raves editorial director Alexandra Deabler. "I’m really not a big fan of gold, but with the pendants and everything, it is so pretty and kind of hobo-chic-ish."
The necklace varies in price based on the base (bracelet, necklace type) and amount of charms you choose, so each piece is truly unlike the other.
Best for sensitive ears: Ana Luisa Huggie Hoop Earrings
- High-quality, yet affordable
- Won't irritate sensitive skin
- Looks silver in sunlight
- Clasp can be loose at times
Metal: 14-karat gold on brass | Size: 4.97 mm to 0.8" diameter | Closure: Hinge | Features: Hypoallergenic and water-resistant
These huggies promises many things: No tarnishing, no green lobes and no reactions. That's because they claim to be long-lasting, hypoallergenic and water-resistant, which are all key features sensitive ears want in an earring. Another perk is that they have stainless steel posts.
Commerce writer Emma Stessman has replaced her former everyday pair with this set for all of those reasons. She finds them comfortable, effortless and stylish. "I have sensitive skin, so certain jewelry can be irritating, but I haven’t had any problems with these," she said in her review.
For a pop of color: Rocksbox Emily Ring
- High quality but affordable
- Bold yet minimal
- Some say the crystals came off
Metal: Gold over Brass | Size: 5 to 9 | Features: Crystals
For a subtle pop of color, Witonsky enjoys wearing this ombre ring from Rocksbox. "It makes a statement without being too bold or chunky, and comes in just about every shade, so you can find one that suits your style," she noted.
To elevate any outfit: Madewell The Tennis Collection Bezel Set Crystal Necklace
- Nickel-safe
- Looks luxurious
- Wish it was a tad longer
Metal: Brass | Size: 15 1/2" with 3" extender | Closure: Lobster | Features: Cubic zirconia
Madewell is one of my favorite brands to shop for jewelry. I find that their jewelry is reasonably priced for the quality you get. For instance, this crystal necklace could easily pass as a high-end piece, but it doesn't have the price tag to go along with it. I love that the crystals aren't too flashy and instead, lightly line the décolletage. It is truly a piece that will elevate any outfit!
I love pairing it with its matching bracelet, but it matches well with other gold pieces in my collection, too.
A lightweight option: Mejuri Floating Sapphire Necklace
- Thin; isn't heavy
- Dainty and chic
- Great for everyday
- Not very noticeable
Metal: Gold vermeil on sterling silver | Size: 16" to 18" | Closure: Lobster | Features: Gemstones
My dad gifted me this necklace a few holidays ago, and it is one of my most worn necklaces. In the past, I used to associate jewelry with diamonds or gems with black tie wear only. But because the gemstones on this necklace are so subtle, I've found it incredible versatile for day and night.
For those who don't love a bulky necklace (me!), you'll enjoy how incredibly lightweight this necklace is. It is so dainty, I sometimes forget that it is on. But at the same time, I always get compliments on it, so while I may not notice it, everyone else does.
A two-in-one hoop: Astrid & Miyu Serenity Pearl Charm Hoops
- Lightweight
- Pearl can be removed
- Pearl can fall off
Metal: 18-karat, gold-plated brass | Size: 20 mm in diameter | Closure: Hinge | Features: Removable pearl
"I love these gold hoops from Astrid & Miyu because they’re lightweight and easy to pair," boasts commerce writer Jannely Espinal. "They have a classic design that pairs well with mostly anything, and you can remove the pearl if you want more of a casual look. I’ve had the silver pair for years and haven’t had any irritation."
Best for layering: Gorjana Parker Mini Layering Set
- Stylish and easy to style
- Can wear together or seperate
- Clasp can be hard to open
Metal: 18-karat, gold-plated brass | Size: 16" to 17" | Closure: Hinge and lobster | Features: N/A
Editor Vivien Moon has owned this layering necklace for over a year now, and previously mentioned in a story that it still looks brand new. While it might look like it is one piece, the necklace can either be attached via their clasps to wear together, or can be more separately. “It’s a perfect layering set in my opinion because it is on the shorter side, which is sometimes hard to find, so it pairs nicely with my longer necklaces and doesn’t get jumbled up," she added.
A sentimental piece: Zales Dainty Butterfly Necklace
- Can add jewelry protection
- Lightweight
- Great for layering
- Difficult to clasp at times
Metal: 14-karat gold | Size: 18" | Closure: Spring-ring clasp | Features: Butterfly pendant
Every time I wear this necklace, I think of my dad. Butterflies are sentimental to my family, and he gifted this to me earlier this year. It's simple and sweet, and works as a great everyday piece to layer with my other necklaces or wear on its own.
Editor’s note: Although our expert Angie Kennedy is affiliated with Zales, the decision to include this necklace in our roundup is because they were independently recommended by our team.
To gift to yourself or someone special: Birthdate Co. The Birthday Pendant Necklace
- Customizable
- Chain is adjustable
- Made-to-order by hand
Metal: Gold-plated | Size: 16" to 20" | Closure: Lobster closure | Features: Four gemstones and crystals; customizable
Keep those close to you or decorate with your own birth chart with this customizable necklace from Birthdate Co. Now that holiday season is approaching, this necklace could make for a good gift, too, for that special someone in your life.
“I love how subtle it is and how high-quality the material is, which is really important to me since I wear my necklaces 24/7,” production coordinator Camryn Privette says.
Frequently Asked Questions
"You should definitely avoid using bleach and abrasive cleaners like toothpaste or baking soda paste, as they can scratch the gold’s surface," recommends Landau. Other harsh chemicals to avoid are ammonia, acetone and alcohol, according to Dai, as they can "also damage and discolor gold jewelry."
If you're using a cleaning tool, "steer clear of hard-bristle brushes, which can also scratch the gold," notes Landau. "Additionally, avoid using sharp objects like needles or pins to remove dirt, as they can damage your jewelry."
All of our experts recommended the same method for cleaning your tools. As you're washing, Dai also advises to "avoid using hot water when you clean gold jewelry as the high temperature might distort the shape."
In short: Yes! Dish soap was recommended by all of our experts to use on your gold pieces. Although they did not recommend a specific brand, any gentle dish soap should be suitable for cleaning your jewelry safe and effectively.
You might've read mixed opinions online, but Landau suggests avoiding vinegar to clean your gold pieces. It can affect the quality of gems and cause gold-plated jewelry, for instance, to tarnish.
According to Dai, genuine gold jewelry is tarnish-resistant. "You can wear it for a long term look without worrying about color changing overtime," she says. But other types of gold, such as gold-plated and vermeil, will.
"Gold-plated or vermeil jewelry will tarnish over time and should never be washed or worn in water," claims Landau. "It's important to note that gold-plated or vermeil jewelry is not considered fine jewelry."
To get rid of tarnish on these types of gold, you should use a soft polishing cloth only.
"Gold jewelry is known for its durability and resistance to tarnishing, making it an excellent choice for pieces you plan to cherish for years," notes Vice President of Product Innovation at Zales, Angie Kennedy. "This quality often makes gold jewelry a preferred choice for classic, long-lasting pieces."
However, not all gold jewelry is alike. Not only do pieces vary in quality, but they differ in price, too. Solid gold options tend to lean more on the higher side, whereas gold-plated picks are usually the most affordable ones you can shop.
But depending on your preference and skin, the type of gold you wear can differ in how it reacts with your skin, its shine and how long it lasts.
Gold-plated: "If something is gold plated, that means that it has a thin layer of gold coating that will wear off eventually (through showering, sweating, etc.)," explains Landau. Also, if you have sensitivity to metals, beware of gold plating because the gold will eventually wear off and expose your skin."
Gold vermeil: "Gold vermeil offers a thicker layer of gold compared to standard gold plating, providing a more durable option while still being more affordable than some other options," notes Kennedy, who also says this option, along with gold-plated, tends to be a more popular choice for "trend-focused styles at a more accessible price point." Landau also adds that gold vermeil is technically gold-plated — it is just plated over sterling silver. "This will still tarnish and wear away, especially because silver tarnishes too," she mentions.
Gold-filled: Gold-filled is often at a higher price point (like solid gold) because it contains a layer of gold over metal, typically brass. While this might sound similar to gold-plated, gold-filled is more thicker, durable and more long-lasting.
Solid gold: True gold jewelry will come in four karat levels (percentage of gold in the piece): 10-karat, 14-karat, 18-karat and 24-karat. "This means that the whole piece is made of gold and not just the outer part," says Landau. And according to Kennedy, the higher the karat, the more resistant it is to tarnish. "Individuals looking for timeless, long-lasting jewelry often opt for gold pieces due to their lasting value and resistance to tarnishing."
How we chose
Shop TODAY contacted jewelry experts for their expertise on maintaining gold jewelry, plus their product recommendations. Along with expert commentary, we included our go-to gold products pieces and cleaning products to make your shopping experience a breeze.
Meet the experts
- Ann Dai is the Director of Product Development and Production at Studs.
- Olivia Landau is a diamond expert, fourth generation jeweler and the founder and CEO of The Clear Cut.
- Angie Kennedy is the Vice President of Product Innovation and New Business Development at Zales.
- Trisha Okubo is an engineer, jewelry designer and the founder of Maison Miru.
