What is an ionic jewelry cleaner? This is where the science comes in, and I have to say that I don't watch the Discover Channel enough. So, I'm not going to even attempt to explain all that stuff about atoms hitting each other. However, I will say that the particular cleaner I tested out is called a Mini Speed Brite: Personal Sized Ionic Jewelry Cleaner and retails for around $50. (A number of suppliers carry these, so just search for "Mini Speed Brite" in any search engine to locate them and compare prices). It holds six ounces, which is filled with a mixture of water and cleaning concentrate (included with the cleaner). A small 9 volt battery is also included and goes in a compartment on the bottom of the container. An alligator clip attached to a wire is connected to the container.
What has magic got to do with anything? After the cleaning solution is added, you attach the piece of gold or silver jewelry to the clip and immerse it in the solution. Then push a button and the cleaner starts its magic. And, yes, I can say it did work like magic. I was truly amazed. Silver takes about 5 seconds and gold takes about 30 seconds. After cleaning, the items should be rinsed with water and thoroughly dried. I cleaned all kinds of jewelry, and I can say a noticed a real difference. What really made me happy was the fact that it's safe for crystal beads. In fact, though it does not recommend you do this, I even cleaned a few items that had pearls on them, and since it was in there for just a few seconds, my pearls were fine and the silver wire that connected them was shiny and bright again.
What are its limitations? While I love this little cleaner and have it set up permanently in a spare bathroom for that "got to clean my jewelry before I run out the door time," nothing is perfect. The biggest limitation is that it is recommended you clean one piece at a time, and I have to agree with this. Otherwise, you'll have to run it through the cleaner a few times, so it's just easier to do one piece at a time. Also, this cleaner cleans; It is not a polisher. This may seem obvious, but I thought it was important to note. The only other limitation I could think of was the price. It is a little pricey, but if you make or wear a good deal of silver jewelry, it's more than worth the price. In fact, I think it would be a nice item to give or receive as a gift. Though my mother doesn't make jewelry, she loves to wear it. I could see her getting a lot of use out of this cleaner.
