How to Clean Mixed Metal Jewelry: Caring for Your Silver and Gold Pieces

But with daily wear comes buildup, and keeping your metal jewelry clean is key to maintaining that elevated everyday shine.

This guide will tell you how to clean mixed metal jewelry at home— quickly, safely, and stylishly.

Understanding Mixed Metal Jewelry

Mixed metal jewelry blends different types of metals — most often silver and gold — into one versatile piece. From bold cuffs to dainty layered necklaces, these pieces let you wear both tones at once without second-guessing your look.

But silver and gold don’t behave the same way. Gold resists tarnish, while silver is more prone to it. Cleaning both in one go takes a little finesse, which is why knowing how to clean them correctly keeps your favorite pieces from losing their edge.

Tools and Supplies You’ll Need for Cleaning

Here are the essentials you'll be needing:

• Soft cloth – for wiping and drying
• Mild dish soap – gentle, fragrance-free is best
• Warm water – lukewarm, never hot
• Soft toothbrush – to get into grooves
• Baking soda – great for silver tarnish
• Jewelry polishing cloth – to restore that signature shine
• Non-abrasive jewelry cleaner – make sure it’s safe for mixed metals

Make sure to skip the paper towels and toothpaste — those can leave scratches behind.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Mixed Metal Jewelry

Step 1: Make Your Cleaning Solution

Mix a small drop of mild dish soap into a bowl of warm water. For tarnished silver, sprinkle in a bit of baking soda to help lift the oxidation.

Step 2: Clean Your Jewelry

Dip a soft toothbrush into the solution and gently scrub around links, clasps, and crevices. Avoid brushing too hard, especially around gems and detailing.

Step 3: Rinse and Dry

Rinse your jewelry under lukewarm water to remove residue. Use a clean, soft cloth to blot dry. Avoid rubbing—just pat gently.

Step 4: Polish

Finish by buffing your piece with a jewelry polishing cloth. This brings back the shine on both metals. Be especially gentle at the connection points between silver and gold.

Special Tips for Gold and Silver in Mixed Metal Jewelry

Gold and silver may look stunning together, but they react differently to daily wear and cleaning. That’s why it’s important to understand how to care for each metal without damaging the other.

For Silver

When cleaning silver, you’ll want to pay attention to tarnish. Silver reacts with air and moisture over time, which can leave it looking dull or discolored.

• Use a baking soda and water paste to gently lift heavy discoloration.
• Just rub gently with your fingers or a soft cloth and rinse thoroughly with warm water.
• Avoid soaking pieces with stones or enamel

For Gold

Gold doesn’t tarnish the same way, but it does pick up oil and grime from your skin, lotion, and everyday life.

• Stick to the mild soap solution.
• Steer clear of harsh jewelry cleaners with ammonia or strong acids, as they can wear down the finish, especially at the points where gold meets silver.

Around Gemstones or Pearls

If your jewelry includes diamonds, pearls, or gemstones, keep soaking to a minimum.

• Use a damp cloth or a soft brush to clean around the stones.
• Gem settings can loosen over time, so it’s a good idea to handle them carefully and inspect for any movement or buildup.

How to Prevent Damage to Two-Toned Jewelry

Store smart

Keep pieces in individual soft pouches or lined boxes. Silver can tarnish faster in humid spaces—avoid leaving pieces in your bathroom.

Avoid chemicals

Take off your jewelry before applying lotion, perfume, or cleaning. Chlorine and bleach? Major no.

Stick to a cleaning routine

Wipe jewelry after each wear and do a deeper clean every 4–6 weeks. It keeps your pieces looking fresh and helps prevent buildup that dulls the shine.

Keep Your Shine Going with Jennifer Fisher

Mixed metal jewelry is made to be worn, not hidden away. With a few easy care steps, you can keep your favorite pieces looking fresh, polished, and ready for whatever the day brings.

Want more everyday styles that mix silver and gold effortlessly? Explore Jennifer Fisher’s mixed metal collection and find the go-to hoops, chains, and rings you’ll never want to take off.