How to Clean Tarnished Fake Jewelry: Restore Shine with These 6 Solutions

Fake jewelry, while often less expensive, can still add charm and style to any outfit. However, one downside of these affordable accessories is their tendency to tarnish more easily over time. Understanding how to clean tarnished fake jewelry effectively is crucial for keeping your favorite statement necklaces, bracelets, and rings looking radiant.

In this guide, we'll explore what fake jewelry is made of, why it tarnishes, and share six proven methods to restore its original shine. If you have pulled out your favorite piece of costume jewelry only to find it tarnished, join us and learn to clean it effectively.

What Is Fake Jewelry Made Of?

If you're wondering "How can I clean tarnished costume jewelry," it's essential to first understand what they are made of. Fake or costume jewelry is crafted from less expensive materials compared to fine jewelry. While it may not contain precious metals or gemstones, it often mimics the look of its luxurious counterparts.

The core of many costume jewelry pieces is typically composed of base metals like copper, brass, nickel, or aluminum. To mimic the appearance of precious metals, base metal pieces are frequently coated with a thin layer of gold, silver, or rhodium plating. This plating can wear off over time, revealing the base metal underneath. Some pieces may incorporate plastic or resin to simulate the appearance of gemstones or precious metals. These synthetic materials are lightweight and can be dyed in various colors.

Why Does Fake Jewelry Tarnish?

Fake jewelry tarnishes due to various factors, primarily because it's typically made from base metals like brass, copper, or aluminum, which are prone to oxidation when exposed to air and moisture. Additionally, fake jewelry may be plated with materials like gold or silver, and this plating can wear off over time, exposing the base metal to tarnish. (Read how long will gold plate jewelry last here.)

Other contributors to tarnishing include exposure to chemicals in lotions, perfumes, or cleaning products, as well as contact with sweat or skin oils. These factors can lead to a chemical reaction on the surface of the jewelry, resulting in discoloration or dullness.

6 Ways to Clean Tarnished Fake Jewelry

When your favorite costume jewelry starts to lose its shine, there's no need to worry. Here are six effective methods on how to remove tarnish from costume jewelry using household items:

Toothpaste

Toothpaste is a handy DIY solution that can help clean tarnished fake jewelry.

What You'll Need:

Steps on how to remove tarnish from costume jewelry with toothpaste:

1.Apply a small amount of non-gel toothpaste to the toothbrush or Q-tip.

2.Gently scrub the tarnished areas of the jewelry.

3.Rinse with warm water and dry thoroughly with a soft cloth.

Lemon Juice

Lemon juice is a natural acid that can break down tarnish effectively.

What You'll Need:

Steps on how to untarnish costume jewelry with lemon juice:

1.Squeeze fresh lemon juice into a small bowl.

2.Dilute with an equal amount of water.

3.Soak the jewelry for 5-10 minutes.

4.Gently scrub with a soft-bristled toothbrush or Q-tip.

5.Rinse with warm water and dry thoroughly with a soft cloth.

Mild Warm Soap Water

A simple solution of mild soap and warm water can be highly effective for cleaning tarnish.

What You'll Need:

Steps on how to clean costume jewelry with mild soap water:

1.Mix a few drops of mild liquid soap in a bowl of warm water.

2.Submerge the jewelry in the soapy water for about 5-10 minutes.

3.Gently scrub the tarnished areas with a soft-bristled toothbrush or Q-tip.

4.Rinse with warm water and dry thoroughly with a soft cloth.

White Vinegar and Water

White vinegar is a mild acid that can dissolve tarnish without damaging the underlying material.

What You'll Need:

Steps on how to clean costume jewelry that is tarnished with white vinegar:

1.Mix one part white vinegar with one part water in a bowl.

2.Soak the jewelry in the vinegar solution for 15-20 minutes.

3.If tarnish persists, gently scrub the areas with a soft-bristled toothbrush or Q-tip.

4.Rinse the jewelry under water to remove any vinegar residue.

5.Dry thoroughly with a soft cloth.

Baby Shampoo

Baby shampoo is gentle and free from harsh chemicals, making it perfect for cleaning tarnished costume jewelry. Here's how you clean costume jewelry with baby shampoo:

What You'll Need:

Steps:

1.Add a few drops of baby shampoo to a bowl of warm water and mix gently.

2.Dip the soft-bristled toothbrush or Q-tip into the solution and gently scrub the jewelry.

3.Rinse the jewelry under warm water to remove any soap residue.

4.Pat dry with a soft cloth.

Soda Water

Soda water can help lift tarnish from fake jewelry due to its carbonation.

What You'll Need:

Steps:

1.Pour soda water into a bowl.

2.Submerge the jewelry in the soda water for about 20-30 minutes; the carbonation helps loosen any debris or tarnish.

3.If necessary, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub stubborn areas.

4.Rinse with plain water and dry thoroughly with a soft cloth.

Conclusion

Cleaning tarnished fake jewelry doesn't have to be a daunting task. With the 6 methods on how to clean tarnished fake jewelry outlined above, restoring the shine and beauty of your favorite pieces can be easily achieved at home. Whether using household items like toothpaste, lemon juice, or vinegar, or opting for gentle solutions like mild soap or baby shampoo, you can effectively remove tarnish and bring back the sparkle to your jewelry.

Regular maintenance and proper care are key to preserving the appearance and longevity of your costume jewelry. So, next time you notice tarnish on your favorite pieces, remember these effortless tips on how to clean tarnished costume jewelry and enjoy wearing them with renewed confidence and elegance.

FAQ

How to remove blackness from artificial jewelry?

You can remove blackness from artificial jewelry by using methods such as soaking it in lemon juice, mild soap water, or white vinegar solution, and gently scrubbing with a soft toothbrush. Rinse with plain water and then dry it thoroughly with a soft cloth.

Can you reverse tarnished jewelry?

Yes, you can reverse tarnished jewelry. Simply clean it using a soft cloth and a gentle cleaning solution like mild soap and warm water. For tougher tarnish, use a jewelry-specific cleaner or a mixture of baking soda and water. Make sure to rinse and dry the jewelry thoroughly afterward to restore its shine.

Can you clean tarnished plated jewelry?

Yes, you can clean tarnished plated jewelry using gentle cleaning methods such as mild soap water, white vinegar solution, or lemon juice. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can damage the plating.