Hi I am looking to purchase a cleaner and would like some
First what is the difference between an ultrasonic
cleaner and a Ionic cleaner. Second; How exactly do they work, and
last; is it possible to build one. Any help or advice is
appreciated. Thanks Gary <@gary>
Hi I am looking to purchase a cleaner and would like some First what is the difference between an ultrasonic cleaner and a Ionic cleaner. Second; How exactly do they work, and last; is it possible to build one.
I asked that question a while ago, and after much research this
is what my conclusion is (btw, the research was very extensive .
. . about 5 seconds! )
Ionic, I purchased one of those . . . it was battery operated,
formed small bubbles on the metal (I use silver). I found that
the tarnish was removed very quickly, I’m not sure whether ionic
cleaning actually removes gunk (ie: after polishing, or even
after long time wear.) You can use Ionic even with the softest
of stones and pearls.
Ultrasonic, vibrate very quickly, I understand it will remove
the gunk after polishing. But, the limitiation is the stones
used. Many stones will not stand the ultrasonic waves (I’m
assuming that they will crack, chip or break . . .and maybe the
worst of it would be to drop out of the setting? I don’t
honestly know.)
Ionic cleaner is relatively inexpensive . . . even the shop size
is well below $300.00 U.S. Dollar . . . the smallest (which was
the one I purchased and then returned, I really wanted a larger
one, but our local jewelry supplier went out of business shortly
before Christmas! Darn!) I am still looking . . .
I think I may eventually want to purchase a ultrasonic, but for
now, a crock pot filled with amonia/water mix seems to be
removing the gunk which remains after polishing.
Good luck, I look forward to seeing the replies to your quire.
Happy (almost) New Year!
Ionic cleaner is relatively inexpensive . . . even the shop size is well below $300.00 U.S.... I really wanted a larger one, but our local jewelry supplier went out of business shortly before Christmas!
Try a ‘Speed Brite’. I’ve had 1 for about 3 years. It really
does a nice job. I had the smaller round model 1st but got the
longer oblong model (mdl #309B) since I use it on a lot of chain.
Think I paid about $130 for it. It’s safe for all stones. The
tank is about 8 1/2" x4 1/2" x 2"deep.
Speed Brite’s address is:
1810 W Innes St.
Salisbury NC 28144
704-639-9771
Fax 704-637-5007
Usual disclaimers, just a satisfied customer.
Dave
Fishbre396,
I don’t know what size Ionic cleaner you’re looking for, but
Gesswein (800-243-4466) has a model called Speed Brite 200 for
$74. Good luck.
Try a 'Speed Brite'. I've had 1 for about 3 years. It really does a nice job.
I have used a Speed Brite also for about 3 years, to clean
pearls, beads, gold and silver. Works like a charm. Takes to
tarnish off gold and makes it look like new, even antique pieces.
Just be careful with plated goods it will turn them dark and are
a devil to polish by hand. Also I found it best not to put inlay
or intarsa pieces in it, the solution can work it way under the
design and discolor it. I am an appraiser and do bead work and
repair this process seems to be the safest method for cleaning.
Thanks for your very informative note! I’ve been considering
getting an IONIC cleaner (aka: Speed Brite- only because that’s
the only one I’ve seen!) SOLD!
Now I’m going to be shopping around for the best price!!!
Thanks again for your
I have the Speed Brite, and the only problem I have with it is
that it makes a mess of silver chains, discoloring parts of them
at random. I wonder if that is because the purchased chains I
use for small pendants may be plated??? with rhodium? Hmmmm…
Ruth