10 Jewelry Cleaning Mistakes That Cause Permanent Damage

Oscar Son25 Feb, 2026Business

So you’ve got a beautiful ring that’s looking a bit dull. Maybe your grandmother’s necklace needs some sparkle. Your first instinct? Grab whatever’s under the sink and start scrubbing. Stop right there. Here’s the thing — most people don’t realize they’re destroying their jewelry while trying to clean it. And the damage? Often permanent. I’ve seen engagement rings with scratched diamonds, pearls turned chalky, and gold pieces stripped of their finish. All from well-meaning cleaning attempts gone wrong.