What is an ultrasonic jewellery cleaner?
An ultrasonic jewellery cleaner is a compact unit that is ideal for cleaning small objects such as rings, bracelets, necklaces, or earrings that have intricate or hard-to-reach areas, in a reliable and quick method that won’t compromise the quality or integrity of the item. The unit is able to clean without using harsh chemicals or fumes and can get into the smallest of parts of an item for a complete clean that will have jewellery looking like new in a matter of minutes.
How do they work?
The tank of the cleaner is filled with a special cleaning solution, which is often diluted with water, and then the item to be cleaned is immersed within it. When the machine is then turned on it sends high-frequency sound waves (20 – 400Hz) through the transducer (tank of liquid) beginning the process of cavitation. Cavitation is where the soundwaves create a cavity, which is trapped as a tiny bubble within the liquid solution, and this then implodes with force which dislodges the contaminants of grease, dirt or rust on the jewellery.
These tiny bubbles are so minute that they can clean hard-to-reach areas such as the threads of a screw, or hinges, meaning that the intricate settings of jewellery can be precision cleaned in minutes. This not only makes jewellery look amazing, but can also prolong the life of the item.
5 steps to using an ultrasonic jewellery cleaner:
Using an ultrasonic jewellery cleaner couldn’t be more straightforward. There are five simple steps:
- Mix the water and cleaning solution in the tank of the cleaner using gloves to protect your skin from the solution.
- Prepare the machine in terms of time and temperature settings and any other preparatory tasks laid out in the manual.
- Place your jewellery into the basket ensuring that nothing is touching the base of the machine.
- Close the lid and activate the machine to begin the cavitation process, until it is finished.
- Remove your cleaned items and rinse to ensure all cleaning solution is removed. Now you can enjoy your clean and sparkling jewellery.
What jewellery can and can’t be cleaned in an ultrasonic cleaner?
What can?
Almost all metals can be put into anultrasonic jewellery cleaner, from yellow, white and rose gold to silver and platinum. However, tungsten shouldn’t be cleaned in this way as it is susceptible to damage in an ultrasonic cleaner. Diamonds are usually safe to clean in this way, although it is worth checking the grading. Some diamonds, if they have inclusions or are colour treated, will not fare well in the machine. Most other hard gems such as sapphire, ruby, garnet and amethyst are fine in the cleaner as well as plastic and glass gems.
What can’t?
Organic gems such as amber, jet and coral should not be cleaned this way as they come from living organisms and are porous. Emeralds, opals, topaz, turquoise and lapis lazuli are also brittle stones and unsuitable to be cleaned in an ultrasonic machine. Another gem that should never be cleaned in an ultrasonic jewellery cleaner is pearl, which could even dissolve in the machine, and this is also true for mother of pearl. Costume jewellery is not suitable for this cleaning method either, as it often is comprised of counterfeit gems and the cheap materials used will often tarnish and the heat can make the glue unstick causing the item to fall apart.
Why choose EJ Ultrasonics for your ultrasonic cleaning solution?
EJ Ultrasonics has been in the ultrasonic cleaning business for over 20 years and are proud to be at the forefront of ultrasonic cleaning technology. We have a range of ultrasonic cleaners which can fit your jewellery cleaning needs and our expert advisers can help you find the answer to your specific requirements.
Our range of popular benchtop cleaners are perfect for smaller cleaning projects, such as jewellery.
Contact us to find your ultrasonic jewellery cleaning solution today.
