How to Remove Tarnish on 10K & 14K Gold Jewelry

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Things You'll Need

  • Soap

  • Water

  • Bowl

  • Old toothbrush

  • Cloth

Gold pocket watch.

Tarnish occurs on gold jewelry when the gold is exposed to air and oxidizes. Tarnish is a natural occurrence on all gold that is not pure. Some folks like the look of aged, tarnished 10K and 14K gold (called a patina). Others want to remove the tarnish from their 10K and 14k gold jewelry and keep the jewelry looking new and shiny. Removing tarnish from 10K and 14K gold jewelry is easy and inexpensive.

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Step 1

Bowl of water.

Prepare a mixture of tap water and dish washing detergent or a non-abrasive, commercial jewelry cleaner.

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Step 2

Cleaning jewelry.

Scrub the tarnish off of 10K and 14K gold jewelry with soapy water and a soft toothbrush. Scrub all surfaces, including crevices.

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Step 3

Clean 10K rings.

Rinse the 10K or 14K gold piece in warm water until the water runs clear.

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Step 4

Sparkling clean gold ring.

Buff the 10K or 14K jewelry dry with a soft, lint-free cloth until the jewelry shines.

Warning

Check to make sure cleaners are safe on gemstones if your 10K or 14K gold jewelry contains gemstones.

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