Jewellery Care 101: How to Clean, Store, and Maintain Your Precious Pieces

Your jewellery is more than just adornment; it’s a part of your story, a reflection of your personality, and a repository of cherished memories. Taking care of your jewellery isn’t about high fashion or luxury; it’s about preserving your treasures that hold sentimental value beyond measure. Has it ever happened that right before a big occasion you look at your jewellery and wonder, “Has my jewellery lost its shine?”, “Do I have enough time to get it cleaned by a professional?”, “Can I clean my jewellery at home?”. Here are some insightful tips on the joy of jewellery care as an act of love, memory-keeping, and everyday etiquette.

 

 

Cleaning

The best way to clean your jewellery depends on the type of metal and gemstones used. For general cleaning, you can soak your jewellery in a mild dish soap and water solution for a few minutes, then gently scrub with a soft toothbrush. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and pat dry with a soft cloth.

Further, these are some specific cleaning tips for different types of jewellery:

• Gold: Gold is a relatively soft metal, so it’s important to be gentle when cleaning it. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials. You can use a mild dish soap and water solution, or a specially formulated gold polishing cloth.
• Silver: Silver is a reactive metal, so it can tarnish over time. To clean silver jewellery, you can use a silver polishing cloth or a mixture of baking soda and water. Make a paste with the baking soda and water, and apply it to the jewellery with a soft cloth. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and pat dry.
• Diamonds: Diamonds are the hardest natural substance on Earth, so they can be cleaned with a variety of methods. You can soak your diamond jewellery in a mild dish soap and water solution, or use a toothbrush to gently scrub the gemstones. You can also use a commercial jewellery cleaner specifically designed for diamonds. Avoid using any acid-based, products as they may erode the natural brilliance of a diamond.
• Gemstones: Other gemstones require different cleaning methods depending on their specific properties. For example, pearls should be cleaned with a mild soap and water solution, while opals should be cleaned with a dry cloth. It’s always best to consult with a professional jeweller to get specific cleaning instructions for your gemstones.

Professional jewellers also use steam cleaning as a method of deep cleaning jewellery, with specialized equipment created specifically for that purpose.

 

 

 

Storage

When you’re not wearing your jewellery, it’s important to store it properly to prevent scratching, tangling, and tarnishing. Store your jewellery in a clean, dry place, such as a jewellery box or a fabric-lined pouch. Avoid storing your jewellery in direct sunlight or in a humid environment.

If you have multiple pieces of jewellery, it’s best to store them separately to prevent them from scratching each other. You can use small plastic bags or jewellery boxes with compartments to keep your pieces organized.

 

 

Maintenance

In addition to regular cleaning, it’s also important to have your jewellery inspected and maintained by a professional jeweller on a regular basis. A jeweller can check for loose prongs, cracked gemstones, and other signs of damage. They can also professionally clean your jewellery to remove any dirt or build-up you can’t remove at home.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your precious jewellery will last for years to come.

Here are some additional tips to help you maintain your jewellery:

• Avoid wearing your jewellery while swimming, showering, or bathing. Chlorine and salt water can damage the metals and gemstones.
• Remove your jewellery before doing any strenuous activities, such as gardening or cleaning.
• Apply makeup, lotion, and perfume before putting on your jewelry. These products can contain chemicals that can damage the metals and gemstones.
• Be careful not to drop or bump your jewelry. Even a small impact can damage the metal or gemstones.

Taking good care of your jewellery ensures it remains beautiful and valuable for years to come. By following these simple tips on cleaning, storing, and maintaining your precious pieces, you’ll keep your jewellery looking as stunning as the day you first laid eyes on it. Show your jewellery the care it deserves, and it will continue to adorn you with its timeless beauty and sentimental significance.