Have you ever looked at your rings or other pieces of jewelry and realized they look dull and are in need of cleaning? Here are some tips for the best way to clean your favorite pieces.

• DIAMONDS: Use warm soapy water and a soft-bristle toothbrush, then pat dry with a soft cloth. Do not use toothpaste. While toothpaste won’t harm diamonds, it may be too abrasive for softer metals, like silver, that surround them.
• GOLD: Remove your gold jewelry before showering or using household cleansers. Also chlorine, in hot tubs, can discolor gold. For untarnished gold, use a few drops of mild dish detergent and warm water, and scrub with a soft-bristled toothbrush. If your gold is tarnished, add a few drops of ammonia to warm soapy water. Rinse and let dry.
• STERLING SILVER: Because sterling silver is one of the softest metals, it scratches easily, so only use a silver polishing cloth or a soft sponge.
• PEARLS: If you wear pearls on a regular basis, the oils from your body will keep them polished. After wearing, take them off and wipe with a dry cloth. Do not store pearls in plastic—only cotton—and keep separate from your other jewelry. If they’re visibly dirty, wash them in 1 teaspoon of Woolite, diluted in 1 teaspoon of water, for 10 to 15 seconds. Gently wipe and lay flat to dry.
• TURQUOISE: Because turquoise is so porous, do not submerge turquoise in water. It may cause discoloration. Avoid commercial jewelry cleaners. Quickly swish in warm sudsy water, and dry immediately with a soft cloth.