Caring for your jewellery

Jewellery often holds both financial and sentimental value, whether it's a family heirloom, a gift from a loved one, or a personal indulgence. To preserve its beauty and integrity for years to come, it’s important to understand how to properly care for your pieces. This guide covers everything you need to know to keep your jewellery sparkling and in top condition.

1. Clean Regularly, But Gently

Everyday wear exposes your jewellery to dirt, oils, and chemicals that can dull its appearance.

Tips for cleaning:

Gold and platinum: Soak in warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap. Gently scrub with a soft toothbrush, rinse, and dry with a soft cloth.
Silver: Use a silver polishing cloth or a cleaner specifically designed for sterling silver. Avoid harsh chemicals that can strip away the finish.
Gemstones: Many gemstones are delicate. Use only warm water and a soft cloth. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners for porous or treated stones like opals, emeralds, and pearls.

2. Store Properly

Storing your jewellery correctly helps prevent scratches, tarnishing, and tangles.

Store pieces separately in a soft-lined jewellery box or pouch.
Keep silver jewellery in anti-tarnish cloths or bags.
Hang necklaces to prevent tangling.
Avoid placing different metals together, as they can react and damage each other.

3. Be Mindful When Wearing

Jewellery can be damaged by activities we often don’t think twice about.

When to remove jewellery:

Before exercising, cleaning, or swimming (chlorine can be especially harmful).
When applying lotion, perfume, or hairspray.
Before sleeping, even sturdy chains can kink or break.

4. Know Your Materials

Different materials have unique care requirements.

Pearls: These are particularly sensitive. Wipe with a soft cloth after wearing and store flat in a cloth pouch.
Diamonds: Though hard, diamonds can still be chipped. Store separately and check settings regularly.
Costume jewellery: Typically more delicate and susceptible to water damage. Avoid moisture and store carefully.

5. Check Settings and Clasps

Over time, clasps can loosen, and prongs may weaken.

Have your jewellery inspected by a professional at least once a year.
Tighten loose settings to prevent stone loss.
Replace worn clasps or catches to avoid accidental loss.

6. Avoid DIY Repairs

While it may be tempting to fix a broken piece yourself, jewellery repairs require skill and proper tools. Improper fixes can cause more damage and decrease the value of the piece.

7. Get Insurance for Valuable Pieces

For high-value jewellery, insurance provides peace of mind. Make sure you have proper appraisals and coverage in case of loss, theft, or damage.

Final Thoughts

Jewellery is more than just an accessory, it’s a reflection of your style, memories, and moments. With just a little regular care and attention, your favourite pieces can maintain their sparkle and sentimental value for generations to come. Treat your jewellery with respect, and it will continue to shine back at you for years to come.

Get in touch if you would like to have your jewellery professionally cleaned.