What Types of Jewelry are Suitable for Cleaning in an Ultrasonic Cleaner

The ultrasonic cleaner can go through the small crevices on the jewelry to clean out the dirt in the corners effectively and without damaging the jewelry. This makes ultrasonic jewelry cleaner a popular tool for cleaning jewelry. Using a cleaner is safer and more reliable than traditional cleaning methods (rinsing or wiping). Not all jewelry can be cleaned using ultrasonic cleaning. High-frequency vibrations and shock waves may damage some of your jewelry, so it's important to know which jewelry should be kept away from ultrasonic cleaners. Let's look at the different types of jewelry that can be safely cleaned using an ultrasonic cleaner.

Jewelry that can be cleaned with an ultrasonic cleaner

Gold jewelry

Gold is a very stable metal material, and the use of ultrasonic cleaner is the first choice for cleaning gold jewelry. However, care should be taken if you have gold jewelry with diamonds or gemstones. In this case, you need to ensure the jewelry is securely set first.

Diamond Jewelry

Diamonds are one of the hardest gemstones and can be safely cleaned with an ultrasonic cleaner. However, checking for any loose stones or damaged jewelry is vital before cleaning.

Silver Jewelry

Silver is a soft metal with a surface that tends to oxidize and lose its luster. Ultrasonic cleaning helps remove the oxidation layer and restore the jewelry's luster. An ultrasonic cleaner is the best choice for cleaning, especially for silver jewelry that has been exposed to chemicals that have darkened.

Platinum jewelry

Platinum, like gold, is a durable and strong metal commonly used in engagement rings and other fine jewelry. It is safe to clean platinum jewelry, but care should be taken if the jewelry contains gemstones or pearls.

Artificial Jewelry

Artificial jewelry is generally made from non-precious materials such as base metals (iron, copper, stainless steel, etc.), glass, or plastic. Cleaning jewelry with an ultrasonic cleaner is usually safe, but you should take care if gemstones or other fragile components are stuck to the jewelry.

Jewelry that should not clean in an ultrasonic cleaner

Pearl jewelry

Pearls are delicate and need to be cleaned gently to avoid damage. It is not usually recommended to use ultrasonic cleaners to clean pearl jewelry, as the sound waves can damage the surface of the pearls. Especially for natural pearls, it is best to clean pearl jewelry by hand using a mild soap solution.

Soft or porous stones

Generally, should not use ultrasonic cleaners if the gemstone is soft. Softer gemstones and lower-grade organic materials may not withstand the strength of an ultrasonic jewelry cleaner. Acoustic vibrations can cause chipping, discoloration, and even breakage of gemstones. Soft or porous gemstones include emeralds and opals.

Plated metal jewelry

Most pure and precious metals can be put into an ultrasonic cleaner, but a few types of metals should be kept away. For example, avoid putting tungsten or any plated metal parts into an ultrasonic cleaner. The strength of the ultrasonic cleaner can erode the plated metal layer on the surface of these parts. Instead, use a soft cloth or water containing a mild soap solution to clean plated metal jewelry.

Recommendations for ultrasonic jewelry cleaner

Digital Ultrasonic Cleaner

Ultrasonic Freq(KHz) : 40
Temperature Setting(℃)-Max : 80℃
Time Setting(min) : 180s/360s or 1-30 mins

Ultrasonic Cleaning Machine for Jewelry

Ultrasonic Freq(KHz) : 40KHz
Tank Capacity(L) : 0.4
Time Control : Automatic shutdown after 5 minutes

Household Ultrasonic Cleaner

Ultrasonic Freq (KHz) : 42KHz

Tank Capacity (L) : 0.75

Time Control : 5 working cycles (90s,180s, 280s, 380s, 480s)

How to clean jewelry using an ultrasonic cleaner

When cleaning, be sure to follow these steps:

1. Prepare and check the integrity of the jewelry. If necessary, gently wipe and rinse the jewelry with dishwashing detergent and soap.

2. Add water or detergent to the ultrasonic jewelry cleaner, and try to choose a solution that will not damage the jewelry, such as a special jewelry cleaner or dishwashing detergent.

3. Set the parameters and switch on the device for cleaning

4. Remove the jewelry from the device and rinse thoroughly with water. Dry the jewelry with a soft cloth or air dry. If necessary, polish the jewelry with a jewelry polishing cloth.

Conclusion: Are ultrasonic cleaners worth it?

Ultrasonic cleaners can effectively remove dirt and grime from your favorite jewelry, leaving them sparkling like new. If you own a lot of jewelry (which can withstand the vibrations of an ultrasonic cleaner) or if you are planning to open your own jewelry business, then buying an ultrasonic cleaner is worth your time.