22 May
A Guide on How to Clean Jewelry at Home - Fine Jewelry Care
As a young woman with a growing collection of fine jewelry, I understand the importance of maintaining the sparkle and elegance of these precious pieces. Fine jewelry is not just an accessory; it holds sentimental value and can be passed down through generations. To ensure your gold jewelry and diamonds continue to shine and radiate their beauty, here are five tips for properly cleaning and caring for your jewelry.
Use Gentle Cleaning Solution
A mild jewelry cleaning solution specifically formulated for jewelry cleaning is ideal. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage delicate gemstones and metals. Our team has researched and found a gentle dishwashing soap, like Dawn dish soap, works surprisingly well.
Get A Soft Brush
Use a soft bristle brush, such as a soft toothbrush, to gently scrub away dirt and debris from hard-to-reach areas, including underneath gemstone settings in diamond jewelry and between links.
Rinse With Warm Water
After cleaning your gold and silver jewelry, rinse it thoroughly in warm water to remove any remaining residue. Be sure to rinse away all traces of cleaning solution to prevent buildup. Using your soft toothbrush in this step can also help.
Pat Dry With A Soft Cloth
Gently pat your jewelry dry with a soft, lint-free cloth to remove excess moisture. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing, as this can cause scratches or damage to the metal and gemstones.
If Needed, Professional Cleaning
Consider taking your prized possessions to your preferred jeweler for a professional jewelry cleaning for stubborn dirt or hard-to-clean pieces. They have the expertise and specialized equipment to safely clean and restore your jewelry to its original luster.
How Often Should You Clean Your Jewelry?
Gold and silver jewelry should be cleaned regularly to maintain their luster and shine. As a general rule of thumb, it's recommended to clean gold jewelry every 1-2 months or more frequently if you wear it frequently or it comes into contact with lotions, perfumes, or body oils. Regular cleaning helps prevent tarnishing and keeps your jewelry looking its best.
Additionally, it's a good idea to clean your jewelry after each wear if it's exposed to sweat, oils, or other substances that can cause buildup or discoloration. Remember to follow proper cleaning techniques and avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that can damage the metal or gemstones.
How to Properly Store Your Jewelry
Keep It Clean and Dry
The simplest way to maintain the brilliance of your jewelry is by keeping it clean and dry. Everyday activities like applying lotion, perfume, or even cooking can accumulate dirt and oils on your jewelry. To clean your pieces, use a soft cloth or a jewelry-specific cleaning solution and dry them thoroughly before storing them. This will prevent tarnishing and keep your jewelry looking its best.
Store Them Separately
It's crucial to store your fine jewelry separately to avoid scratches and tangles. Invest in a jewelry box or organizer with compartments for each piece. Consider using soft pouches or jewelry rolls for travel. This protects your jewelry from damage and makes it easier to find the piece you want to wear.
Gentle Handling
Handle your jewelry with care. We're not saying you need white glove service, but when putting on or taking off your pieces, do so over a soft surface, like a cloth or towel, to prevent accidental drops or damage. Avoid harsh chemicals, especially when wearing rings, as they can dull gemstones and precious metals. Additionally, remove your jewelry before engaging in activities like swimming or gardening, as exposure to chemicals and rough surfaces can harm your pieces.
Regular Inspections
Make it a habit to inspect your jewelry regularly. Check for loose stones, bent prongs, or any signs of wear and tear, especially for pieces with high sentimental value like engagement rings. Catching issues early can prevent more extensive damage and costly repairs. If you notice any problems, take your jewelry to a reputable jeweler for professional maintenance.
Categorize Them By Styles and Metal
Yes, this may sound like a task for a person with OCD, but it does help when stacking and styling jewelry on a daily basis. But for some, keeping silver and sterling silver jewelry separate may seem a little ridiculous.
