How to Safely Clean Your Vintage Costume Jewelry Without Damaging It

How to Safely Clean Your Vintage Costume Jewelry Without Damaging It

How to Safely Clean Your Vintage Costume Jewelry Without Damaging It

Vintage costume jewelry holds charm, history, and sometimes a whole lot of sparkle—but cleaning it requires extra care. These delicate treasures weren’t made with solid gold or diamonds, so the same methods you’d use for fine jewelry could actually damage vintage pieces. But don’t worry! With a gentle approach and a few simple supplies, you can keep your vintage gems looking their best for years to come.

Here are some safe and specific ways to clean vintage costume jewelry without causing harm:

✨ 1. Skip the Soak

It might be tempting to drop your jewelry into a bowl of soapy water and let it sit—but resist the urge! Soaking can loosen glued-in stones, damage foiled backs, and warp materials like celluloid, Bakelite, or early plastics.

Instead: Use a soft, damp cloth or cotton swab to gently clean piece by piece.

🧼 2. Use a Mild Soap Solution

For surface dirt or grime, a very diluted mix of mild dish soap and warm (not hot!) water works best.

How to do it:

  • Mix a small drop of dish soap with about a cup of water.

  • Dip a soft cloth or cotton swab into the solution.

  • Gently wipe the piece, avoiding direct contact with any stones that might be glued in.

  • Use a separate clean, damp cloth to wipe away any soapy residue.

🧻 3. Dry Thoroughly (and Carefully)

After cleaning, moisture is your enemy. Water trapped in crevices can cause rust, especially on older metal settings.

Best drying method:

  • Pat gently with a dry microfiber cloth.

  • Lay the piece on a towel in a well-ventilated area.

  • If needed, use a soft brush (like a baby toothbrush or clean makeup brush) to remove trapped water or dust from detailed areas.

🪞 4. Don’t Use Harsh Chemicals or Jewelry Cleaners

Many commercial jewelry cleaners contain ammonia, alcohol, or acid—bad news for costume jewelry, especially rhinestones, pearls, and enamel.

Avoid:

  • Ultrasonic cleaners

  • Jewelry dips

  • Alcohol wipes

  • Vinegar or lemon juice

These can cloud stones, damage finishes, and eat away at metal coatings.

🖌️ 5. Use a Soft Brush for Delicate Detailing

When cleaning intricate filigree or textured areas, a soft baby toothbrush or an unused makeup brush can gently lift out dirt without scratching.

Pro tip: Use dry brushes or just slightly dampen the bristles—never scrub or apply pressure.

⚠️ 6. Check for Loose Stones or Damage Before Cleaning

Before you clean any piece, inspect it under good lighting. Look for:

  • Loose or missing stones

  • Cracks in enamel

  • Weak clasps or pins

If something seems fragile or damaged, avoid cleaning until it’s been repaired (or clean around it very carefully).

📦 7. Store Clean Jewelry Properly

Once clean, keep your pieces looking lovely by storing them properly:

  • Wrap each piece in acid-free tissue or place in soft pouches

  • Keep in a dry, cool place (no bathrooms!)

  • Use anti-tarnish strips if metal is involved

Proper storage = less cleaning needed later.

Final Thoughts

Cleaning vintage costume jewelry is more about care than elbow grease. With a gentle touch and a few easy habits, you can preserve the beauty and history of each piece. Think of it like caring for a work of art—because in many ways, that’s exactly what vintage jewelry is!

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The next two photos are before and after images of a pair of vintage Laurel Burch earrings with the after images taken after using the two products below. I have been using both products on vintage gold plated jewelry for almost 8 years and am never disappointed with the results.  My suggestion: Only use on gold plated or gold filled with vintage costume jewelry. Read directions included with the items for more details. 

It is not recommended that you use these products for average vintage jewelry but if you find gold plated or gold filled vintage jewelry items such as vintage Laurel Burch jewelry, then they are successful for cleaning these items.  I am always surprised at the change after cleaning.  I only leave them in the cleaner for two minutes or less. 

The following Amazon links are affiliate links where I will make a small commission if you click on these links and purchase.

Products I use on a weekly basis to clean gold plated vintage jewelry.  For Example:  Vintage Laurel Burch Jewelry, Gold Plated or Gold Filled Rings

https://amzn.to/4f2beiR

https://amzn.to/4loH2Re

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