The Five Cleaning Mistakes

THESE CLEANING AGENTS CAN DEVALUE YOUR JEWELRY

Ammonia:  Many people have been told that ammonia is a good agent for cleaning jewelry.  However, over time, ammonia will actually weaken metal.  You can see this result demonstrated in antique rings. The prongs (used in mounting the gemstones) will become weak and often chip after years of exposure to ammonia, and the band will become pitted, dull, and discolored.  In addition, colored gemstones, especially those treated with oils, will eventually lose their brilliance, becoming dull and lifeless.  In addition, ammonia is environmentally hazardous.  It has a pungent order and is both caustic and hazardous, and can cause damage to your eyes, skin, and the tissue beneath your skin, and inhaling ammonia can damage your respiratory track. 

Toothpaste:  You may have heard that toothpaste is an easy at-home solution for cleaning rare metals and precious stones. Unfortunately, most commercial toothpastes contain abrasives and bleaches.  The abrasives scratch gold, silver, platinum, and most other metals, and disfigure the surface of semi-precious stones.  As a result, most gemstones will start to look dull and lifeless after exposing them to toothpaste and pearls will not only begin to lose their natural luster, but the the layers of nacre that took years to build up will also start to wear away. 

Household Cleaners:  Sometimes, people will simply use what they have available.  Unfortunately, many household cleaners contain bleach and chlorine which can damage and discolor the mountings of your jewels.  These chemicals may slowly erode metal finishes and platings while degrading gemstone treatments and polishes.  In fact, chlorine can even permanently damage or discolor your jewelry, especially at higher temperatures.  This is why it's important to remove your diamonds and other jewelry before entering a hot tub or chlorinated pool.

Soap:  Some people think soap will work on almost anything. Yet, you have probably seen television commercials about the soap residue that is left on your body.  And, notice the line that soap leaves on your shower doors, sinks, and tubs after you wash.  This same residue will be left on your jewelry when cleaned with soap.  Using soap as a cleaning agent will cause a film to form and accumulate on your jewelry, making it appear dull and lifeless.

Watch Cleaners:  Most people seldom think about cleaning their watch.  However, no other piece of jewelry accumulates more dirt, oil, and perspiration than the timepiece wrapped around your wrist.  Indeed, your watch is a virtual breeding ground for germs.  Thus, your watch should be cleaned at least once per month with care.  Be sure to clean in between the links and crevices.  Also, replace broken or scratched crystals immediately.  Even a hairline crack can let dust and moisture into the device, affecting its accuracy.  Since most watches are sealed using a rubber “O” ring, many cleaners will deteriorate or dry out the “O” ring causing it to crack and break.  This makes it especially important to only use a cleaning agent that is designed for watches. 

Razzle Dazzle® is a comprehensive jewelry cleanser designed to enhance and protect your precious jewels and metals for many years to come.  We believe products should be safe for you and your family, while ensuring your jewelry lasts and shines its brightest.  We guarantee it! 

No Acids, No Ammonia, No Abrasives, No Toxins, No Chlorine, No Soapy Residue

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