Cleaning silver jewellery at home – best methods

Silver jewellery from IZALEI is crafted in 925 sterling silver and treated to preserve its brilliance over time. Our silver-coloured pieces are rhodium-plated, while our gold-coloured designs are gold-plated. This means they do not behave like untreated silver — and therefore require the right type of care, with particular emphasis on gentle cleaning.

Thanks to rhodium plating and a gold plating of up to 2 microns, our jewellery requires less maintenance than untreated silver. However, proper care is still essential to preserve the finish and expression over time.

In this guide, we explain how to safely clean both rhodium-plated and gold-plated silver jewellery at home, what to avoid, and how to maintain the finish for as long as possible.

Want to learn more about protecting your jewellery in everyday life?
Read more:Care advice: How to take care of your silver jewellery in the right way

Different surface treatments – why they matter when cleaning

Rhodium-Plated Silver Jewellery (silver-coloured)

Rhodium plating is a thin layer of rhodium that provides:

A bright, white lustre
Protection against oxidation and discolouration
Increased durability

Rhodium-plated silver jewellery does not oxidise, but it may still need to be cleaned to remove dirt, skincare residue, and everyday build-up.

Gold-Plated Silver Jewellery (Gold-Coloured)

Gold plating involves applying a layer of gold over the silver base. Our gold-plated silver jewellery features 18K gold plating of 1 or 2 microns, which is significantly thicker than the very thin plating (sometimes called flash plating) commonly used in the industry.

A thicker plating provides:

Improved resistance to wear
Longer-lasting colour and finish
Reduced risk of the plating wearing off during normal use

This means our gold-plated jewellery retains its appearance longer — provided it is cleaned and handled with care.

How to Clean Silver Jewellery at Home – Safe & Effective Methods

Method 1: Lukewarm Water & Mild Soap (Recommended for All Jewellery)

Suitable for: both rhodium-plated and gold-plated jewellery

How to do it:

Mix lukewarm water with a few drops of mild, fragrance-free soap
Let the jewellery soak for 5–10 minutes
Clean gently with your fingers (or a very soft brush if needed)
Rinse thoroughly
Dry immediately with a soft, lint-free cloth

✔ Safe for all surface treatments
✔ Suitable for regular cleaning

Method 2: Soft Microfibre Cloth (For Light Soiling)

Suitable for: fingerprints and light residue

Use a clean, untreated microfibre cloth
Wipe gently without rubbing

Avoid traditional silver polishing cloths — they are designed for untreated silver and can damage both rhodium plating and gold plating.

What to Avoid (Especially Important for Gold-Plated Jewellery)

Do not use:

Silver polish or silver dips
Baking soda, aluminium foil, or home remedies
Toothpaste
Rough cloths, paper towels, or sponges
Ultrasonic cleaners

These methods can:

Wear away the gold plating
Damage the protective rhodium layer
Cause an uneven or dull finish

How Often Should You Clean Your Jewellery?

Jewellery worn frequently: every 3–5 weeks
Jewellery worn occasionally: as needed
Before storage: always clean and completely dry

For gold-plated jewellery with thicker plating (1–2 microns), gentle cleaning with mild soap and water is sufficient when needed.

How to Keep Your Silver Jewellery Beautiful Longer

Remove jewellery before showering, exercising, and sleeping
Apply perfume and skincare products before putting on jewellery
Store jewellery separately in soft pouches or in the original box
Gently wipe the jewellery after each use

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do your silver jewellery pieces oxidise?
No. Our rhodium-plated silver jewellery does not oxidise.
Gold-plated jewellery is protected by the plating but requires gentle care.

Can gold plating wear off over time?
Yes — especially with improper cleaning or constant friction.

Do silver jewellery pieces need polishing?
No. Polishing agents are not recommended. Gentle cleaning is sufficient for both rhodium-plated and gold-plated jewellery.

Summary

Proper cleaning makes a significant difference in how long your jewellery retains its brilliance. With gentle care tailored to the surface treatment, both rhodium-plated and gold-plated silver jewellery from IZALEI can remain beautiful — year after year.