Just like anything you wear your jewelry needs occasional cleaning.  There are two ways you could do this.  Take it to a jeweler to clean it, or clean it yourself.  The jeweler uses machines that cut down on the time it takes to clean your bling.  First they would put it in an ultrasonic cleaner which loosens any dirt and oils that might find their way into the design.  Then, they would use a steam cleaner which would blow out whatever the ultasonic could not remove.  This cleaning combination is very powerful and will remove most contaminates.  If you should get into things like paint or glue your jeweler will be able to help.  If you choose to clean your jewelry yourself you could use the little bottle of jewelry cleaner you can buy at the jewelry store.  Personally, I think that’s a little pricey, and it doesn’t work all that well.  Let me let you in on a little secret.  Use rubbing alcohol.  Yes, the kind you buy at the drug store.  This will work on gold, silver and platinum jewelry.  Soak overnight and use a toothbrush if neccesary to remove any contaminates.  Rinse with more achohol, not water, and pat dry with a cloth.  Rinsing with water will leave spots.  Alchohol is not recommended for costume jewelry. because it can soften the glue that holds the stones in.    Now, not all gemsones can be soaked.  Do not soak Pearls, Opals, Mystic Topaz or any stones that are soft like turquois or coral.  If you are unsure, ask your jeweler.  Alchohol will be fine for diamonds, rubies, saphires and most colored stones.  You should never mix metal types when cleaning in alcohol.  Use a separate cup for gold, silver and platinum.  Alchohol works wonders on chains and bracelets and gives them a polished look.  Be careful, alchohol is flammable.  Do not clean jewelry near any open flame like a candle or a stove.  Do not smoke while cleaning.