How to Clean Rhinestone Costume Jewelry

Rhinestones are most commonly found two ways.
Foil back: A thin sheet of foil is attached to the bottom of the stone. This allows it tremendous sparkle when the light hits it.
Rhinestones without a foil back are often in an open back setting (similar to diamonds/gemstones) which allows light to pass through.

As moisture is a real enemy of foil back rhinestones, care should be taken to properly clean your jewelry without damaging the stones. Over time, dampness will disintegrate the foil backing creating blackness in your stones. Perspiration and perfumes can have the same effect.

Never dunk your costume jewelry in any commercial solution or soapy water. The effects of the damage will not be seen right away. Sure, your lovely brooch LOOKS sparkly and clean but wait six months after that foil starts to show the damage...

When I clean my rhinestone jewelry, here is what I do:

I take my time and don't rush through the job. Generally, I allow 10 minutes per stone. Often, it doesn't take that long but I like the fact that it keeps me from rushing through the job knowing I have plenty of time.

I use a baby's toothbrush with soft bristles. Get the softest small brush possible and practice brushing your hand or arm. Don't use force, you want to barely feel the bristles. Rhinestones can be scratched if you use too much force, even with a soft brush.

Spray glass cleaner on your brush and then pass your thumb over the bristles until no moisture drops are left.

Start small and gently brush over each stone. Don't force bristles down under the rhinestone as it may scratch/damage the foil backing. Take your time and don't hurry. Clean each stone separately.

After that, I use my blow dryer on the low, cool setting for a minute just in case I have any moisture. Don't use the high, hot settings on your blow dryer.

Then I place my jewelry upside down on a soft, absorbent cloth and leave it alone for 24 hours.
I use the same procedures for unfoiled stones but if they are in an open back setting, I clean the bottom of the rhinestone as well.

In all my years, I've never have a problem with any stones I cleaned turning black.

I think the keys to my success are:

I use the least amount of moisture possible.
I use the softest brush available.
I allow myself plenty of time.

Got another way that worked wonders for you? Won't you please share?