How to Care for Metal Beads

Metal beads are beautiful and unique additions to any jewelry-making project. They come in a wide range of different metals, sizes and shapes, and they work well either on their own or when paired with gemstone beads. Because metals react with the environment, though, through a natural oxidation process, they require special care. Environmental reactions can cause an oxidized or antiqued appearance that some people love. However, many others find that the tarnished look takes away from the overall beauty of a piece of jewelry.

If you are working with metal beads or enjoy wearing metal beads, it is important to know how to properly take care of them. Keep reading to discover how to care for metal beads. 

How to Care for Gold Beads

Yellow, white and rose gold all require the same type of care. Keep in mind that because gold is a soft metal, you need to be extra cautious to avoid damaging it during cleaning. For normal cleaning, soak your gold jewelry in a bowl of lukewarm water and mild dish soap for about 20 to 30 minutes. Then, use a soft cloth or brush to gently remove dirt. Rinse off the soap residue with clean water and then dry with a soft, clean towel. Make sure the piece is completely dry prior to wearing.

A polishing cloth can be used to polish gold beads. Since polishing is a slightly abrasive process, however, it should not be done often. Excessive polishing can cause your beads to wear down quickly. When not in use, store your gold beads and jewelry away from other metals to prevent scratching. 

How to Care for Silver Beads

Silver can also be prone to scratches and damage. It’s also especially prone to tarnishing, so you need to know how to prevent oxidation and polish your beads when it occurs. Keep your silver beads as dry and protected from the air as possible. Store them in air-tight bags with anti-tarnish properties to keep them looking great.

Clean your silver beads and jewelry using a microfiber cloth or jewelry cloth. Avoid using paper towels. Clean using long up and down strokes and try to use different sections of the cloth to avoid spreading the tarnish. Avoid cleaning in circular motions as they can make tarnish worse. You can also clean your silver beads using lukewarm water and mild dish soap. If you use this method, though, be sure to dry each bead completely prior to storing or wearing. 

How to Care for Copper Beads

Like silver, copper beads have a tendency to naturally tarnish. For the most part, though, you can keep your copper beads clean by occasionally cleaning them using lukewarm water and mild dish soap. Soak for 20 to 30 minutes and then dry and polish using a soft cloth. You can also use jewelry polish and a soft cloth to give your copper beads an incredible shine.

There are a few options for cleaning excessively tarnished pieces. You can use salt and vinegar to gently rub away grime and then rinse with water and polish with a soft cloth. As an alternative, pour salt on half of a lemon and rub over your copper beads. Rinse with water and then polish with a soft cloth. 

Caring for Mixed Metal Jewelry

Caring for mixed metal jewelry can be tricky since each metal has its own unique properties. Your best option is to dip the item in a bowl of lukewarm water and mild dish soap and then polish with a soft, dry cloth. If the piece includes precious or semi-precious gemstones, be extra cautious and use only a soft cloth to wipe away dust and dirt.

If you have a piece of mixed metal jewelry–with or without gemstones–that is in need of a deep cleaning, it’s best to talk with a professional jeweler. Trying to do it on your own could result in irreparable damage, so it’s always better the err on the side of caution. 

Conclusion