How to Care for Vintage Rhinestone Jewelry

Vintage rhinestone jewelry consists of pieces that hail from a period in the past, not more than 100 years old, as a piece of that age would qualify as an antique. Due to advanced age of a vintage piece, it is important for you to administer gentle care and cleaning techniques in order to preserve its condition.

Things You'll Need

• Large bowl
• Lukewarm water
• 1 to 2 drops of mild dishwashing liquid
• Old, soft toothbrush
• Cotton swabs
• Soft, dry cloth

Instructions

Cleaning

1. Fill a large bowl with lukewarm water and add 1 to 2 drops of mild, liquid dishwashing soap. Agitate the water and soap with your fingers to mix. You will not see bubbles with such a small amount of soap.

2. Dip the head of an old, soft toothbrush into the soapy water and tap the handle of the brush on the side of the bowl to remove excess water. Brush all areas of jewelry clean using gentle motions.

3. Dampen a cotton swab in the soap and water solution and gently insert the end into hard-to-reach areas of the piece of jewelry to remove dust and dirt accumulation. If the opening is too small to accommodate a cotton swab head, you will have to omit this step.

4. Wipe the jewelry dry with a soft cloth.

General Care

1. Apply hairspray and perfume before putting on your vintage rhinestone jewelry. This will you help you avoid coating the jewelry with residue.

2. Apply a small amount of water to a paper towel and gently clean the rhinestone if it becomes dull between cleanings. Never use commercial cleaners as they may damage the stone, backing or setting.

3. Store your rhinestone jewelry in a separate, closed jewelry box to avoid scratches and dust accumulation.

Tips & Warnings

• You can also use a baby brush to clean the jewelry.

• Some vintage jewelry has delicate settings. Be careful when cleaning it.

• Avoid immersing vintage rhinestone jewelry in water as it may damage the foil backing on the stone.

• Never use any type of abrasive cleaning tool or chemical on rhinestone jewelry to avoid damage.

References

• VIntage Costume Jewels: How to Clean Rhinestone Jewelry