Guide to Jewellery Care: Keeping Your Treasures Sparkling

Jewellery has a unique ability to hold sentimental value and elevate our style. Whether it's a family heirloom, a special gift, or a personal indulgence, taking proper care of your jewellery ensures it remains as radiant as the day you first laid eyes on it. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essential steps to preserve the beauty and longevity of your cherished pieces.

1. Know Your Jewellery: Material Matters

Different materials require distinct care routines. The first step in proper jewellery care is understanding the composition of your pieces. Common materials used in the manufacturer of jewellery include:

a. Gold and Silver:

Gold: Although gold is relatively inert, it can still lose its lustre over time. To clean gold jewellery, mix mild soap with warm water and gently scrub using a soft brush.

Silver: Silver is prone to tarnishing. Use a silver polishing cloth or a specially formulated silver cleaner to restore its shine.

b. Gemstones:

Diamonds: These precious stones are very durable, but a mixture of mild soap and water, paired with a soft brush, can keep them dazzling. Avoid harsh chemicals that may damage the metal settings.

Pearls: Pearls are delicate and require gentle care. Wipe them with a soft cloth after wear to remove oils and avoid exposing them to chemicals or perfumes.

c. Gemstone Alternatives:

Cubic Zirconia: Clean with a soft, damp cloth to maintain its brilliance. Avoid abrasive materials that may scratch the surface.

Moissanite: Similar to diamonds, moissanite can be cleaned with a mild soap solution and a soft brush.

If you are in any doubt as how to clean any item, we suggest that you speak to a professional jeweller. Jewellers may have professional cleaning equipment and normally it is only a small fee to clean items.

2. Storage: Separation is Key

Proper storage is crucial to prevent jewellery from scratching, tarnishing, or getting tangled. Follow these storage tips:

Individual Compartments: Store each piece in its own compartment to avoid scratching and tangling.

Avoid Moisture:

Moisture can accelerate tarnishing. Store jewellery in a dry place and consider adding silica gel packets to your storage to absorb excess moisture.

Anti-Tarnish Strips: Place anti-tarnish strips in your jewellery box to slow down the tarnishing process, especially for silver pieces.

3. Regular Cleaning Routine:

Regular cleaning is the key to maintaining your jewellery’s sparkle. Here's a step-by-step guide:

a. General Cleaning:

Prepare a Cleaning Solution: Mix a small amount of mild dish soap with warm water.

Soak the Jewellery: Place your jewellery in the soapy water and let it soak for a few minutes.

Gentle Brushing: Use a soft brush (a toothbrush works well) to gently scrub intricate details and hard-to-reach areas.

Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the jewellery under warm running water, ensuring all soap residue is removed.

Pat Dry: Pat the jewellery dry with a soft, lint-free cloth. Avoid using tissues or paper towels, as they can scratch certain materials.

b. Specialised Cleaning:

Ultrasonic Cleaners: Ideal for removing dirt from intricate settings, ultrasonic cleaners use high-frequency sound waves to create vibrations that remove debris.

Steam Cleaners: These use high-pressure steam to clean jewellery quickly and effectively. However, not all gems and materials can withstand steam cleaning, so check the guidelines for your specific pieces.

4. Professional Inspection: A Jeweller’s Touch

While regular cleaning is essential, a professional jeweller’s inspection can catch issues early on. Consider an annual visit to your jeweller for:

Prong Inspection: Ensure prongs holding gemstones are secure.

Stone Tightening: Check for any loose stones and tighten them if necessary.

Metal Inspection: Examine the overall condition of the metal for signs of wear or damage.

Polishing: Professional polishing can remove scratches and restore the jewellery’s original lustre.

5. Wear with Care: Avoiding Damage

Preventing damage is just as important as cleaning and storing. Follow these guidelines to keep your jewellery safe during wear:

Remove Before Activities: Take off your jewellery before engaging in activities like swimming, gardening, or exercising to avoid damage. Important- If you do remove jewellery, remember to keep it safe, and always abide by any requirements of your Jewellery Insurance policy.

Avoid Contact with Chemicals: Perfumes, lotions, and cleaning products can tarnish or damage jewellery. Put your jewellery on last after applying cosmetics.

Gentle Handling: Handle your jewellery with care to prevent accidental damage or bending.

By incorporating these practices into your routine, you'll ensure that your jewellery remains as attractive as the day you first acquired it. Remember, a little care goes a long way in preserving the beauty and value of your cherished pieces.

If you wish to protect your jewellery against; loss, damage, or theft, please click here: Jewellery insurance, or call us on 0203 907 8080