Care of Antique Rings

Antique jewelry is more than 50 years old, while anything less than 50 years old is called estate jewelry. Antique rings, such as those from the Edwardian era, might be filled with filigree. Their diamond settings were often different than modern ones, with the old mind cut and rose cut being two examples. The delicate designs in antique jewelry can prove to be a challenge when you attempt to clean them.

Instructions

1

Store antique rings that are made from high-karat gold away from your other jewelry. These pieces are more likely to dent easily. Ideally, each ring should be stored in a separate pouch, or at least wrapped in a soft cloth to keep them from rubbing against each other.

2

Clean gold and platinum rings by dipping them in a jar of 1/3 cup ammonia and 2/3 cup water. Brush the ring with a soft baby toothbrush to remove dirt in the setting. Rinse in clean water. Pat the ring dry with a soft towel.

3

Clean antique silver rings by rubbing a paste of baking soda and water with a soft cloth. Get in the filigree and settings with a soft baby toothbrush.

4

Clean diamonds, rubies and sapphires in a solution of 1/3 cup ammonia and 2/3 cup water. Other gemstones are softer and should be cleaned with water and a few drops of dish washing liquid. Emeralds are very soft and should be stored in a separate pouch.

5

Clean pearls with a soft, damp cloth each time you take them off. Store them in a long box, not in a jewelry box. They are sensitive to products such as perfume and hair spray, so they should be put on after these other products have been applied.

6

Take your rings off when you are doing household jobs. Your rings should not come into contact with any chemicals. Remove them before gardening as well.