At Munchel’s Fine Jewelry, one of the most common questions we hear is, “Can I just clean all my jewelry at home with one of those ultrasonic machines?” It’s a great question, and the answer is – sometimes yes, and sometimes no. Ultrasonic cleaners can be a great way to bring back that fresh-from-the-showcase vitality in many types of jewelry, but they’re not right for every piece in your collection. 

Before you rush out and dunk your favorite diamond ring or gold chain into an ultrasonic cleaner, let’s talk about what ultrasonic cleaning is, why people use it, what jewelry is safe for it, and when you might want to leave the job to us, the professionals, instead. This is your ultimate guide to ultrasonic cleaning straight from your neighborhood jeweler.

What Exactly Is Ultrasonic Cleaning?

Ultrasonic cleaning is a specialized process that uses sound waves to give your jewelry a deep, thorough clean. Unlike simple scrubbing or soaking, this method relies on technology to reach places that are tough to clean by hand.

Here’s how it works:

• The ultrasonic cleaner generates high-frequency sound waves that move through a liquid cleaning solution.
• These sound waves create microscopic bubbles in the solution in a process called cavitation.
• As the bubbles rapidly form and collapse, they release tiny bursts of energy that gently dislodge dirt, oil, and debris from the surface of your jewelry.

The result is a cleaning method that is gentle on metals like gold and platinum but highly effective at removing buildup. It can reach into fine details such as prongs, engravings, chain links, and underneath gemstones, where toothbrushes, cloth towels, or other at-home methods often fall short.

For everyday buildup like lotion residue, soap scum, and natural skin oils, ultrasonic cleaning is also efficient. After just a few minutes, it’s common to see the cleaning solution turn cloudy, revealing just how much hidden grime was clinging to your jewelry.

Why People Appreciate Ultrasonic Cleaning

Ultrasonic cleaning has become a favorite tool for both professional jewelers and jewelry owners at home because it offers a level of convenience and effectiveness that traditional cleaning methods can’t always match. Its benefits go beyond simply making your jewelry look nice – it can also help restore jewelry and make upkeep easier.

Here are some of the reasons people turn to ultrasonic cleaners:

• Restores brilliance – Diamonds, in particular, benefit from ultrasonic cleaning because even a thin layer of dirt or oil can dull their natural sparkle. The vibrations quickly dislodge these particles, allowing the stone’s brilliance to show again.
• Reaches intricate details – As we mentioned above, ultrasonic cleaners are especially effective for complex pieces. Settings with multiple prongs, detailed engravings, chain links, or watchbands often trap dirt in areas that brushes and cloths cannot reach. The ultrasonic process works in those hidden spaces and cleans them thoroughly.
• Saves time and effort – Instead of carefully scrubbing each piece of jewelry by hand, you can place several items into the cleaner at once and achieve noticeable results in just a few minutes.
• Offers professional-level results – Many people enjoy the feeling of being able to achieve jewelry-store-level cleaning right at home. While professional jewelers often use larger, more powerful machines, at-home ultrasonic cleaners still provide a notable deep clean.

That said, while ultrasonic cleaning is highly effective, it is not suitable for every type of jewelry. Certain gemstones and delicate settings require extra care, which is why it’s important to know when an ultrasonic machine is appropriate and when it’s better to leave the cleaning to a professional.

What Jewelry Is Safe for Ultrasonic Cleaning?

Ultrasonic cleaning is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Certain types of jewelry can handle the process very well, while others are at risk of being damaged. Knowing the difference is key to protecting your collection.

Jewelry That Is Generally Safe

• Hard gemstones – Diamonds, sapphires, and rubies are durable enough for ultrasonic cleaning, provided they do not have significant cracks, inclusions, or prior damage.
• Solid gold and platinum pieces – Plain necklaces, bracelets, rings, and earrings without delicate stones or embellishments usually respond very well to ultrasonic cleaning.
• Sturdy metal watchbands – The bands themselves can typically be cleaned, but it is very important to never submerge the watch movement or case.

Jewelry That Should Be Avoided

• Porous gemstones – Pearls, opals, turquoise, and coral are naturally soft and porous, which means they can absorb liquid or even crack under vibration.
• Treated stones – Many gemstones undergo heat or fracture-filling treatments to improve their appearance. Ultrasonic cleaning can reverse or damage these enhancements.
• Soft gemstones – Stones like tanzanite, emeralds, and amber are especially vulnerable to scratching or breakage in an ultrasonic bath.
• Antique or fragile settings – Older jewelry or delicate soldering work may not withstand the vibrations and could weaken further.

A good rule to follow is this: if you are uncertain about the durability of a piece or the type of treatment it has received, do not take chances. When in doubt, consult your jeweler – we are always happy to help evaluate your jewelry before cleaning.

Inspect Your Jewelry Before Cleaning

Even if your piece falls into the “safe” category, it’s important to inspect it carefully before placing it into an ultrasonic cleaner. The vibrations that make ultrasonic cleaning so effective can also expose weak points in jewelry, such as a loose setting.

Here’s what to look for:

• Loose stones – Hold the piece up to your ear and give it a gentle tap. If you hear rattling, that’s a sign a stone may not be secure.
• Worn or bent prongs – The small “claws” holding gemstones in place should look strong and even. Thin or bent prongs are more likely to break under vibration.
• Cracks, chips, or visible damage – If you see any flaws in the stone, ultrasonic cleaning could make them worse.
• Delicate soldering or fine chains – Thin links or older repairs may not stand up to the pressure.

If you notice any of these issues, skip the home cleaning and bring the piece to us. We can secure stones, repair prongs, or recommend an alternative cleaning method.

You should also avoid ultrasonic cleaning at home if your jewelry is expensive, rare, sentimental, or heavily soiled with years of buildup or tarnish. 

Finding the Right Balance

Ultrasonic cleaning can be a great addition to your jewelry care routine, but it works best when used thoughtfully. Think of it as one tool in a larger toolbox. For durable, everyday pieces, it can be a convenient at-home solution. For more delicate or high-value jewelry, professional cleaning is the safer choice.

It’s also worth remembering that cleaning isn’t only about appearance. Regular cleanings help preserve the strength and integrity of your jewelry, ensuring that it continues to shine and stay secure for many years. 

If you’d like to utilize an at-home ultrasonic cleaner and are unsure whether your jewelry is a good fit, call Munchel’s Fine Jewelry at (863) 619-6269, or stop in and let us take a look. Together, we’ll make sure your jewelry stays beautiful and protected. 

About Munchel’s Fine Jewelry

Munchel’s Fine Jewelry Inc. is a family owned and operated business. We have been proudly serving Central Florida with quality jewelry and services for over 30 years. Our commitment and dedication to our customers is what sets us apart. We offer a large selection of jewelry and collectible items, including coins, watches, lockets, and necklaces. In addition, we also buy, sell, and trade many types of timeless pieces. For more information, please contact us at (863) 619-6269 or visit our website at munchels.com.