Stone Necklace Set Buying Guide 2026: Designs, Gold Purity, Gemstone Settings, Weight Rules & BIS Hallmarking

By Satyam, BlueStone Editorial

A stone necklace set represents the pinnacle of coordinated elegance in fine jewellery. Unlike standalone chains or isolated pendants, a necklace set offers a curated, harmonious pairing of a statement necklace with matching earrings, and often complementary accents, designed to create a balanced aesthetic framing the collarbones and face. Across India, the popularity of the stone necklace set spans intimate festive celebrations, cocktail receptions, milestone anniversaries, and grand bridal ceremonies. Whether crafted with dazzling natural diamonds, vivid precious emeralds and rubies, or lustrous freshwater pearls paired with colorful gemstones, studded stones transform classic gold metallurgy into radiant works of art. However, purchasing a stone necklace set requires specialized technical evaluation that goes far beyond buying plain bullion gold. When jewellery is studded, buyers must evaluate the structural tensile strength of the gold mount, the security of prong and bezel stone settings, the weight distribution between necklace and earrings, and the precise legal metrology calculation of net gold weight versus gross weight under Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) billing rules. Choosing an overly ductile gold purity can risk loose stones, while failing to demand an itemized invoice can result in paying gold rates for gem weight. This comprehensive 2026 buying guide provides an authoritative roadmap to navigating stone necklace sets, analyzing metal alloys, comparing gemstone varieties, examining setting architectures, demystifying invoice mathematics, and verifying BIS HUID and gemological lab certifications.

Quick Checklist: Key Rules for Buying a Stone Necklace Set in 2026

• Optimal Gold Karatage: 18K gold (750 fineness) and 14K gold (585 fineness) are the structural benchmarks for studded necklace sets. They offer the necessary tensile hardness and rigidity to lock prongs, bezels, and channels permanently. Traditional 22K gold (916 fineness) is exceptionally soft, posing an ongoing risk of claw bending and stone loss on intricate necklace mountings.
• Coordinated Symmetry: A premium stone necklace set ensures perfect chromatic and optical matching across the necklace and earrings. Gemstone color saturation, diamond clarity grades, cutting proportions, and metal plating must align seamlessly across every individual element.
• Setting Architecture and Security: Bezel and channel settings provide maximum physical protection and zero snagging on delicate silk sarees, dupattas, and chiffon evening wear. Classical prong settings maximize light return and gemstone fire, but require smooth, rounded claws that grip stones without catching fine threads.
• The Net Weight Billing Mandate: Under Indian Legal Metrology and BIS standards, jewellers must calculate the gold rate strictly on the net gold weight (gross weight minus total gemstone weight). Never pay the gold rate on gross weight. Gemstone charges, per-carat rates, and making charges must be itemized line by line.
• Earring Weight Distribution: Verify that the matching earrings in the set are engineered for comfortable wear. Look for substantial Bombay screw-backs or broad push-back closures that support the earring flush against the earlobe without drooping or stretching delicate piercings.
• Mandatory BIS Hallmarking & HUID: Inspect the three mandatory laser engravings on both the necklace clasp and earring stems: the triangular BIS logo, the karat purity mark (such as 18K750 or 14K585), and the 6-character alphanumeric HUID code, verifiable on the BIS CARE mobile app.
• Independent Gemological Certification: Ensure that diamonds and precious gemstones in the set are accompanied by authentic grading reports from reputable gemological laboratories such as SGL, IGI, or GIA, confirming natural origin, carat weight, color, and clarity.

What Is a Stone Necklace Set and How Is It Structured?

In fine jewellery terminology, a stone necklace set refers to a coordinated suite of jewellery featuring a primary neckpiece and matching ear ornaments, united by a cohesive design motif, gemstone color palette, metal alloy, and setting technique. While mixing and matching individual pieces can create eclectic personal styling, a purpose-built necklace set provides balanced proportion, continuous visual rhythm, and unified metal reflection that elevates formal, festive, and bridal attire.

The architecture of a stone necklace set is engineered around three foundational components:

• The Primary Neckpiece: Ranging from snug chokers and collar pieces to fluid princess lengths and graceful matinee drops. The necklace features a central focal point, such as a graduated cluster motif, a dangling pendant drop, or a continuous riviere line, that rests smoothly against the contours of the collarbone.
• The Coordinating Earrings: Designed to echo the central motif of the necklace without competing for visual dominance. Depending on the scale of the necklace, the earrings may take the form of brilliant diamond studs, tailored huggies, articulated drops, or dramatic chandeliers. Proper design engineering ensures that the earrings match the necklace in gemstone quality while remaining lightweight enough for extended celebrations.
• The Articulated Mounting: High-end stone necklace sets are constructed with interconnected, flexible gold links rather than rigid cast bars. This articulation allows the necklace to drape naturally over diverse neckline anatomies without pinching the skin, twisting, or flipping upside down during movement.

Historically in Indian jewellery traditions, stone necklace sets trace their lineage to royal durbar suites, where maharanis and nawabs commissioned matched parures featuring uncut diamonds (polki), Burmese rubies, Colombian emeralds, and Basra pearls set in pure gold kundan. In modern 2026 design, this regal heritage has evolved into sleek, versatile coordinates that blend heritage craftsmanship with contemporary lightweight ergonomics, allowing modern women to wear fine stone sets to intimate family dinners as effortlessly as to grand wedding sangeets.

Popular Types of Stone Necklace Sets for Women

When exploring a stone necklace set for women, buyers encounter a wide spectrum of styling archetypes, each tailored to distinct wardrobe styles, occasions, and personal aesthetics. Understanding these core categories helps you select a suite that complements your lifestyle and fashion preferences.

• Diamond Solitaire and Cluster Sets: Featuring brilliant cut natural diamonds mounted in white gold, rose gold, or yellow gold. Diamond cluster sets group smaller, precision-matched diamonds to create the optical illusion and fire of a massive solitaire center at a fraction of the cost. These sets exude timeless elegance, pairing effortlessly with western evening gowns, contemporary cocktail sarees, and formal corporate ensembles.
• Precious Coloured Gemstone Sets (Ruby, Emerald, Sapphire): Colored stone necklace sets infuse rich chromatic majesty into fine jewellery. A vivid emerald necklace set framed by halo diamonds creates a striking contrast against ivory, gold, and crimson bridal lehengas. Deep pigeon-blood ruby sets offer regal warmth, while royal blue sapphire coordinates evoke aristocratic sophistication.
• Pearl and Coloured Stone Coordinates: Marrying the soft, organic orient of luminous freshwater or South Sea pearls with the sharp scintillation of faceted gemstones. These sets often feature pearl strands terminating in an ornate gemstone pendant, accompanied by matching pearl drop earrings. They offer a refined, understated grace ideal for daytime pujas, wedding receptions, and high-profile cultural gatherings.
• Minimalist Geometric and Modern Petite Sets: Designed for the contemporary woman who appreciates subtle luxury. Featuring delicate gold chains accented with bezel-set stones, bar pendants, or dainty floral charms paired with matching stud earrings. These lightweight coordinates transition seamlessly from modern office boardrooms to casual weekend brunches.
• Traditional Temple and Jadau-Inspired Sets: Featuring classical South Indian temple motifs such as peacocks, lotus blooms, and mango leaves, or North Indian Jadau settings with polki stones and meenakari enamel work on the reverse. These ornate sets are reserved for heritage festivals, traditional silk Kanjeevarams, and bridal ceremonies.

Gold Purity Selection: 14K vs 18K vs 22K for Stone Settings

One of the most crucial structural decisions when commissioning or buying a stone necklace set is selecting the appropriate gold purity. While Indian buyers have historically held a strong cultural reverence for 22K gold because of its 91.6 percent bullion content, studded jewellery demands mechanical considerations that make lower karatages far superior from an engineering standpoint.

Pure 24K gold is inherently soft, with a Vickers hardness rating of only 25 to 30 HV. Even 22K gold, hardened with 8.4 percent copper and silver alloys, achieves a modest hardness of only 60 to 75 HV. In an elaborate stone necklace set comprising dozens or hundreds of individual prongs, soft 22K gold claws can easily bend or spread when caught on clothing or subjected to minor impacts. Even a microscopic displacement of a prong causes the seated gemstone to loosen and eventually drop out.

Modern fine jewellers rely on two primary structural alloys to guarantee lifetime stone security:

• 18K Gold (75.0% Purity | 750 Fineness): The Industry Benchmark: 18K gold consists of 75 percent pure gold alloyed with 25 percent silver, copper, and zinc. This metallurgy increases Vickers hardness to 120 to 140 HV, more than double that of 22K gold. 18K gold strikes the perfect balance: it delivers a rich, luxurious golden hue while providing rigid, spring-tempered claws and bezels that grip precious diamonds and gemstones securely for decades. It is the premier choice for luxury bridal sets and heirloom diamond coordinates.
• 14K Gold (58.5% Purity | 585 Fineness): Maximum Mechanical Durability: Combining 58.5 percent pure gold with 41.5 percent strengthening alloys, 14K gold reaches an exceptional hardness of 130 to 160 HV. It provides superior resistance to scratching, bending, and tensile wear. For active wearers, multi-layered daily necklace sets, and budget-conscious buyers seeking maximum structural longevity, 14K gold offers unbeatable reliability and resilience.
• 22K Gold (91.6% Purity | 916 Fineness): Best Reserved for Kundan Foil Work: If you prefer 22K gold for cultural reasons, ensure the stones are set using traditional Kundan techniques, where stones are encased in lac and locked with thick, burnished pure gold foils rather than exposed mechanical prongs. Faceted diamond sets with delicate open-back claws should never be mounted in 22K gold.

Gemstone Setting Styles: Prong, Bezel, Channel, and Pavé Architecture

The setting technique used across a stone necklace set determines both its aesthetic radiance and its practical durability. The mount must securely cradle each gemstone while allowing light to enter the facets and preventing sharp edges from snagging delicate fabrics.

Here are the primary stone setting architectures utilized in high-end necklace sets:

• Prong (Claw) Setting: Individual metal claws curve over the crown of the gemstone to secure it against the metal seat. Prong settings elevate the stone above the mounting, allowing maximum light to enter through the sides and pavilion, generating unmatched brilliance and dispersion. For necklace sets, multi-prong or shared-prong arrangements are common. Ensure that all prongs are polished smooth and rounded (button or claw tips) so they do not catch on silk sarees or embroidered dupattas.
• Bezel Setting: A continuous collar of gold wraps entirely around the perimeter of the gemstone, encasing its girdle. Bezel settings provide the ultimate level of physical protection against side impacts and completely eliminate the possibility of fabric snagging. They create a clean, contemporary frame that accentuates modern geometric stone shapes.
• Channel Setting: Gemstones are set side by side in a groove between two parallel gold walls, without metal separating the individual stones. Channel settings are widely used along the outer collar links of necklace sets and the hoops of matching earrings, protecting fragile stone girdles while maintaining a sleek, uninterrupted ribbon of sparkle.
• Pavé and Micro-Pavé Setting: Tiny diamonds or gemstones are set closely together in honeycomb drillings across the gold surface, secured by miniature beads raised directly from the metal. Pavé work creates the optical appearance of a solid paved diamond surface, adding dazzling texture to cluster motifs and pendant halos.
• Bar and Tension-Style Settings: Stones are secured between vertical metal bars, allowing light to flood through open sides. This architectural setting offers a clean, contemporary flair suited for modern designer sets.

The Weight Calculation Rule: Net Gold Weight vs Gross Weight on Invoices

A vital area of consumer education when purchasing any studded stone jewellery in India is understanding the mathematical relationship between gross weight and net gold weight. Under the Legal Metrology Act and BIS guidelines, jewellers are legally prohibited from charging gold rates for the weight of non-gold materials, including diamonds, gemstones, pearls, and mounting lac.

Here is how the transparent billing formula operates on every legitimate jewellery tax invoice:

• Gross Weight: The total physical weight of the completed stone necklace set as measured on a certified precision digital balance, including gold metal, gemstones, diamonds, clasps, and enamel.
• Total Stone Weight: The exact cumulative weight of all mounted stones, recorded in carats (where 1 carat equals 0.20 grams) and converted accurately into grams.
• Net Gold Weight: The true weight of the pure gold alloy alone, calculated strictly as: Gross Weight minus Total Stone Weight. The prevailing gold rate on the day of billing can strictly be multiplied against this net gold weight only.
• Individual Stone Valuation: Diamonds and precious gemstones must be billed separately based on their specific per-carat rate, cut grade, color, and clarity, rather than lumped into the metal calculation. Semi-precious stones are billed by weight at transparent piece or carat rates.
• Itemized Making Charges: Craftsmanship and manufacturing fees must be stated transparently as a distinct line item, either calculated per gram of net gold weight or as a fixed design charge, accompanied by the mandatory 3 percent Goods and Services Tax (GST).

Always review your tax invoice before making payment. If a retailer provides an invoice with a single consolidated weight figure or refuses to disclose the exact net gold weight deduction, you risk paying expensive gold rates for inexpensive stone weight. Transparent fine jewellers like BlueStone provide a complete, itemized certificate of authenticity that details the exact net metal weight, diamond carat weight, and gemstone specifications for every piece in the set.

Curated BlueStone Stone Necklace Sets

Explore signature stone necklace designs crafted with precision settings, authenticated gold purities, and certified gemstones:

Curated Design Highlights: Explore signature stone necklace set coordinates from BlueStone, including the protective charm motifs of The Rapett Evil Eye Charm Necklace, the multi-tiered grace of The Ailia Evil Eye Layered Necklace, the refined drop of The Yfel Evil Eye Pendant Necklace, the sparkling geometry of The Lumeelle Cluster Pendant, the ornate craftsmanship of The Thaloria Pendant, and the floral radiance of The Sarvanya Pendant.

Finding the Perfect Neckline Match: Choker, Princess, and Matinee Lengths

The visual impact of a stone necklace set depends heavily on how harmoniously its length and silhouette align with your garment neckline. A necklace that fights against the collar or falls awkwardly over an embroidered border can disrupt an otherwise stunning ensemble.

Here is how to pair necklace lengths with popular Indian and western necklines:

• Choker Length (14 to 16 Inches): Resting snugly against the base of the throat or high on the neck. Choker sets create a dramatic, regal statement. They pair exceptionally well with broad boatnecks, off-shoulder gowns, sweetheart blouses, and strapless cocktail dresses, drawing attention upward to frame the jawline and face.
• Princess Length (17 to 19 Inches): The most versatile and universally flattering necklace length, resting gracefully over the collarbones. Princess-length stone sets complement deep V-necks, scoop collars, traditional saree blouses, and tailored button-down collars. They provide ample space for an articulated pendant drop to sit flat against the chest.
• Matinee Length (20 to 24 Inches): Falling comfortably across the center of the bustline. Matinee sets are ideal for high-neck blouses, mandarin collars, closed bandhgalas, and solid jewel necklines where the jewellery rests entirely on top of the fabric rather than bare skin.
• Layered and Multi-Tiered Sets: Combining a snug choker with a longer pendant chain. Multi-tiered stone sets add depth and grandeur to bridal lehengas and wedding reception ensembles without requiring separate mismatched jewellery pieces.

Clasp Security and Weight Balance: Ensuring Comfort and Longevity

Because a stone necklace set carries substantial gem weight and financial value, the mechanical security of its clasps and closures is of paramount importance. A failure in a clasp mechanism can result in accidental loss, while poor weight engineering can cause earlobe fatigue and necklace shifting.

When evaluating a stone necklace set, examine these mechanical details:

• Box Clasp with Figure-Eight Safety Catch: The gold standard for heavier stone necklaces. The male tongue inserts into a spring-loaded box, clicking firmly into position, while an external hinged wire catch snaps over a side peg. This dual-locking mechanism prevents the necklace from unhooking even if the primary spring is accidentally depressed.
• Robust Lobster Claw Clasps: Common on delicate and medium-weight pendant necklaces. Ensure the internal steel spring offers firm resistance and that the jump ring is completely soldered closed with gold solder to prevent chain pull-through.
• Earring Closures and Backings: For matching stone earrings, inspect the post and backing mechanism. Traditional push-back butterflies can loosen over time. Heavy stone drops and chandeliers should be equipped with threaded Bombay screw-backs or broad plastic-disc-reinforced comfort backs that disperse weight evenly across the earlobe, preventing the earring from drooping downward.
• Weight Distribution and Articulation: Drape the necklace over your hand and collarbone. The links should flow smoothly like silk without stiff kinks or resistance. If the central motif feels excessively front-heavy, the necklace may spin or tilt forward during wear; quality designs balance front pendants with counterweighted back links.

BIS 3-Symbol Hallmarking and Lab Certification Standards

In India, verifying authenticity before purchasing fine gold and stone jewellery is supported by rigorous government and gemological standards. Never buy a stone necklace set without confirming both gold hallmarking and gemstone certification.

Under current Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) regulations, every hallmarked gold article must feature three distinct laser-engraved hallmarks:

• 1. The BIS Logo: The official triangular standard mark certifying that the piece has been assayed at an authorized BIS testing center.
• 2. Purity in Karat and Fineness: Indicating the exact gold content of the mount, stamped as 18K750 (75.0 percent purity), 14K585 (58.5 percent purity), or 22K916 (91.6 percent purity). In a set, verify that both the necklace clasp and the earring posts bear this mark.
• 3. The 6-Character Alphanumeric HUID: The Hallmark Unique Identification code, a unique serial number assigned to that individual piece. By entering this HUID into the government BIS CARE mobile application, buyers can instantly verify the registered jeweller, assay center, date of hallmarking, and certified metal purity.

In addition to metal hallmarking, every stone necklace set containing diamonds or precious coloured gemstones must be accompanied by an independent laboratory certificate from recognized institutions such as SGL (Solitaire Gemological Laboratories), IGI (International Gemological Institute), or GIA (Gemological Institute of America). The lab report verifies the 4Cs of the mounted diamonds (Carat, Color, Clarity, Cut) and confirms whether coloured stones are natural or synthetic, protecting you against counterfeit lab-grown simulants passed off as mined gems.

Cleaning, Maintenance, and Safe Storage of Stone Necklace Sets

Stone necklace sets feature intricate gold mounts and faceted gemstone crevices that can accumulate dust, skin oils, soap residues, and cosmetic films over time. Regular, gentle maintenance preserves their optical brilliance and ensures prongs remain undamaged.

Follow these professional care guidelines to maintain your stone necklace set:

• The Last-On, First-Off Rule: Always apply hairspray, perfume, makeup, and lotions before putting on your stone necklace set. Chemical propellants and alcohol residues can coat gemstone facets and erode delicate pearl surfaces, dulling their natural luster.
• Gentle Home Cleaning: Soak the jewellery in a bowl of lukewarm water mixed with a few drops of mild, phosphate-free dishwashing liquid for 10 to 15 minutes. Use a soft, baby-grade toothbrush to gently dislodge trapped dirt from underneath the stone baskets and between chain links. Rinse thoroughly in clean warm water and pat dry with a lint-free microfiber cloth.
• Avoid Harsh Cleaners on Soft Gems: Never expose emeralds, pearls, or opals to ultrasonic cleaners or steam machines. Ultrasonic vibrations can crack included emeralds and shatter porous organic gems. Plain warm soapy water is the only safe method for delicate stones.
• Individual Fabric Storage: Store your stone necklace set flat in a fabric-lined jewellery box with individual velvet compartments. Fasten all clasps before storing to prevent chains from tangling, and keep the necklace isolated from other diamond pieces to ensure hard diamonds do not scratch gold surfaces or softer coloured stones.
• Annual Professional Prongs Check: Have your jeweller inspect the set annually under magnification. Professional ultrasonic cleaning and prong re-tipping ensure that worn claws are tightened before a precious stone can fall out.

Common Buyer Mistakes to Avoid When Purchasing a Stone Necklace Set

Investing in a fine stone necklace set is a significant emotional and financial milestone. Being aware of common purchasing pitfalls ensures you receive genuine value, superior wearability, and lifelong satisfaction.

• Overlooking Earring Weight: Many buyers evaluate the necklace carefully in front of the mirror but neglect to wear the matching earrings for more than a few seconds. Ensure that the earrings do not pull painfully on your earlobes, as overly heavy pieces will remain unworn in your safe.
• Accepting Gross Weight Billing: Never purchase studded jewellery from a jeweller who weighs the entire set and calculates the price using the prevailing 22K or 18K gold rate without deducting stone weight. Always insist on an itemized net gold weight breakdown.
• Ignoring Garment Compatibility: Consider what outfits you plan to pair with the set. If you frequently wear high-neck blouses or heavily embroidered zardozi dupattas, choose bezel or channel-set pieces rather than sharp, elevated claw prongs that can snag threads.
• Neglecting HUID and Lab Documentation: Avoid purchasing unbranded sets that lack verifiable BIS HUID numbers or independent gemological certificates. A retail receipt without third-party lab documentation will complicate future trade-ins, resales, or insurance valuations.
• Compromising on Chain Flexibility: Check that the necklace articulates smoothly. Stiff, soldered joints can sit crookedly against the neck or fracture under gentle bending stress.

Conclusion: Making an Informed Investment in Fine Stone Jewellery

A fine stone necklace set is much more than an ornamental accessory; it is an enduring celebration of craftsmanship, personal style, and family heritage. When designed with precision and cared for properly, a coordinate suite brings timeless sophistication to milestone celebrations and can be cherished across generations.

By prioritizing structural 18K or 14K gold alloys for optimal stone retention, selecting secure settings that complement your lifestyle, demanding transparent net gold weight billing, and verifying mandatory BIS HUID hallmarking and independent lab certification, you ensure that your purchase delivers uncompromising beauty and permanent investment value. Explore authentic, certified collections to find the perfect stone necklace set that tells your unique story.

More Jewellery & Buying Guides

Deepen your fine jewellery knowledge with our curated educational resources. Learn how to verify hallmarking standards and avoid invoice pitfalls in our Stone Jewellery Buying Guide 2026, explore gemstone cuts and styling harmony in our Green Stone Necklace Buying Guide, master diamond and crystal purity checks in our White Stone Necklace Buying Guide, discover layering proportions in our Long Necklace Buying Guide, and master essential metal testing protocols in our guide on How to Check Gold Purity in India.

Frequently Asked Questions About Stone Necklace Sets

Is 18K or 22K gold better for a stone necklace set?

18K gold (750 fineness) is significantly better for a studded stone necklace set. While 22K gold possesses higher bullion purity (91.6 percent), it is an inherently soft and malleable metal. Under everyday mechanical pressure, 22K gold prongs can bend easily, leading to loose or fallen gemstones. 18K gold alloys provide the high tensile strength and rigid spring tension necessary to grip diamonds and gemstones permanently, while retaining a rich, luxurious golden luster.

How is the gold price calculated for a stone necklace set under Indian law?

Under the Legal Metrology Act and BIS regulations in India, the gold rate can strictly be calculated on the net gold weight only, never on the gross weight. The jeweller must weigh the piece, deduct the total weight of all mounted gemstones and diamonds (converted from carats to grams), and multiply only the remaining net gold weight by the day’s gold rate. Gemstones and diamonds must be itemized separately by carat weight and price.

What should I look for when choosing matching earrings in a necklace set?

When selecting matching earrings, evaluate both aesthetic harmony and ergonomic comfort. The gemstones, color grades, and setting techniques should match the necklace precisely. Crucially, check the physical weight of the earrings to ensure they do not pull uncomfortably on the earlobes. Look for secure closures such as threaded Bombay screw-backs or broad comfort clutch backs that hold the earring upright and flush against the ear.

How can I verify that my stone necklace set is genuinely hallmarked?

Inspect the three mandatory laser-engraved BIS hallmarks on the necklace clasp and earring posts: the triangular BIS logo, the karat purity mark (such as 18K750 or 14K585), and the 6-character alphanumeric HUID (Hallmark Unique Identification) code. You can download the official government BIS CARE mobile app and enter the HUID code to verify the authentic registration details, assay center, and certified purity.

What is the best necklace length for a stone necklace set?

The ideal necklace length depends on your garment neckline and personal frame. A princess length (17 to 19 inches) is the most versatile, resting gracefully across the collarbones and pairing effortlessly with V-necks, scoop necklines, and traditional saree blouses. A choker length (14 to 16 inches) sits high on the neck and is perfect for broad boatnecks, off-shoulder gowns, and sweetheart necklines. Matinee lengths (20 to 24 inches) suit high-neck and closed collars.

Can I clean my stone necklace set in an ultrasonic cleaner at home?

You should exercise extreme caution with ultrasonic cleaners. While diamond, ruby, and sapphire jewellery set in solid gold can tolerate ultrasonic cleaning, softer or treated gemstones such as emeralds, pearls, opals, and tanzanite can crack or lose their oil treatments under ultrasonic vibrations. The safest cleaning method for any stone necklace set is soaking in lukewarm water with mild dish soap, gently brushing with a soft baby toothbrush, and drying with a microfiber cloth.