Caring for fine jewelry is essential to maintain its beauty and value. Here are some tips on how to care for your fine jewelry:
1. Clean Regularly:
Clean your jewelry regularly to remove dirt, oils, and grime that can dull its appearance. Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently wipe the surface.
For more thorough cleaning, use a mild, non-abrasive cleaning solution. You can mix warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap. Soak the jewelry for a few minutes, then use a soft brush to clean hard-to-reach areas. Rinse with clean water and pat dry.
3. Be Careful with Light and Heat
Light and heat can affect a colored gemstone’s durability and color. Over time, and in excess, they can also fade or damage some gemstones.
4. Avoid Harsh Chemicals:
Keep your fine jewelry away from harsh chemicals, including bleach, chlorine, and strong cleaning agents. These substances can damage metals and gemstones.
5. Remove Jewelry When Needed:
Take off your jewelry when engaging in activities that may expose it to chemicals, impact, or excessive moisture. This includes swimming, cleaning, and exercise.
6. Store Properly:
Store your jewelry in a cool, dry place. Use individual pouches or soft jewelry boxes to prevent pieces from scratching or tangling with each other.
7. Separate Gemstones:
Store different gemstones separately as they can scratch each other. Diamonds, for example, can scratch other gemstones.
8. Handle with Care:
Handle your jewelry with clean, dry hands. Avoid touching the stones directly, as the oils from your skin can affect their appearance.
9. Inspections:
Regularly inspect your jewelry for loosened stones by using your index finger, gently tap the piece near your ear and listen for rattling. If you notice any issues, take it to a professional jeweler for prong tighten and repairs.
10. Professional Cleaning:
Consider having your jewelry professionally cleaned and inspected by a jeweler annually. They can check for any potential problems and restore the shine of your pieces.
11. Protect from Impact:
Be cautious not to knock or impact your jewelry on hard surfaces, as this can chip or break gemstones and damage metal settings.
12. Resize When Necessary:
If your ring becomes too loose or tight, have it resized by a professional jeweler to ensure a comfortable fit.
13. Insurance:
Consider insuring your fine jewelry to protect against loss, theft, or damage that may not be covered by standard homeowner's or renter's insurance.
By following these care guidelines, you can enjoy your fine jewelry for many years and keep it looking as beautiful as the day you acquired it.
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JEWELRY CLEANING TIPS
Precious MetalsWith proper care, your gold, sterling silver or platinum jewelry will last a lifetime. Rubbing the pieces you wear everyday with a soft chamois is an excellent – and easy – way to keep your jewelry sparkling.
For more intensive cleaning, soak your jewelry in a mix of warm water and dishwashing soap for a few minutes. Then scrub it gently with a soft brush. Rinse and pat dry on a soft lint‐free cloth.
Gemstones & Diamonds
Gemstones and diamonds can easily be cleaned with warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft brush. Soft gems, such as opal, emerald and pearl can easily scratch. Excessive heat (hot water) and sudden temperature changes may also fracture these gems. Opals, for instance, can turn white or brown, develop tiny cracks, and might lose their play-of-color.
Ultrasonic cleaners are great for easy cleaning jewelry, but be aware that they can damage some gemstones. Do not put emeralds, opals, pearls, or turquoise in an ultrasonic cleaner.