Essential guide to jewelry maintenance

Jewelry isn't just a fashion statement; it often carries sentimental value. Therefore, you want to correctly maintain your pieces so you can enjoy them for as long as possible. How to do this? Well, start by reading our practical guide to jewelry maintenance. There is a lot you can do to keep your cherished pieces in top condition.

Why jewelry maintenance matters

Jewelry maintenance is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, regular cleaning prevents the buildup of substances that can tarnish or corrode your pieces. Secondly, it helps identify any wear or damage early, preventing costly repairs or irreversible damage. But lastly, of course, well-maintained jewelry retains its look and spark much better!

Different materials, different care

There's no single quick fix for every piece of jewelry. Different materials require different care.

Gold

Gold jewelry, can lose its shine over time due to skin oils, makeup, and everyday dirt. To clean gold, soak it in a solution of warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap, then gently brush with a soft-bristled brush. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth.

Silver

Silver tarnishes when exposed to air and sulfur-containing substances. A silver polish or a homemade paste of baking soda and water can work wonders. Apply gently, rinse off, and dry well to prevent corrosion.

Diamonds and precious stones

Diamonds may be the hardest substance on Earth, but they can still suffer from buildup and smudging. Clean them with a solution of warm water and mild dish soap, using a soft brush to get into the settings and underneath the stones. Be cautious with gemstones like emeralds and pearls, as they're more delicate and susceptible to damage from harsh chemicals.

Brass, copper, stainless tail and plated items

Jewelry maintenance is not just for the really expensive materials! For more affordable jewelry materials like brass, copper, stainless steel, and plated items, maintenance is also key to longevity. Brass and copper can be cleaned with lemon juice or vinegar mixed with salt to remove tarnish, then rinsed and dried well. Stainless steel benefits from gentle wiping with a mixture of water and mild dish soap. For plated jewelry, avoid harsh chemicals and clean with a soft, damp cloth to prevent wearing off the plating. Always dry these materials thoroughly to prevent corrosion and tarnish.

Storage solutions

Proper storage is as important as cleaning. Keep jewelry in a lined box or individual pouches to prevent scratches and tangles. Store silver in anti-tarnish bags to slow down tarnishing. Keep your jewelry away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture to maintain its condition.

Professional care

While many maintenance tasks can be done at home, some situations call for a professional's touch. Jewelers can perform deep cleans, check and repair loose settings, and polish pieces without damaging them. They can also offer advice on care specific to your jewelry's materials and design. 

Do you need help with professional care for the pieces you bought from us? Just let us know, we're happy to help you with our network of jewelry professionals.