How to clean and care for your jewelry
Your Jewelry has withstood a fair amount of stress during its creation: extreme heat, steel tools, chemical solutions and polishing agents, all applied by skilled craftsmen. A little careful attention on your part can help your collection last for a lifetime and beyond. Following are a few recommendations for looking after your jewelry.
Diamonds
Diamonds are the hardest substance on earth, resistant to scratching by anything but another diamond. They can, however, be chipped or broken by a direct blow, or appear dull due to surface buildup of everyday grime from perspiration, cosmetics and household chemicals. We suggest removing vulnerable pieces during physical activities such as sports or gardening. Brilliance can be restored by gently brushing with a solution of one part ammonia and six parts water. Be careful not to scratch the metal of your setting. We also recommend periodic inspection by a professional jeweler who can check the security of the setting and repolish the metal if necessary.
Gemstones
Sapphires and Rubies are second only to diamonds on the hardness scale and are typically safe in a home ultrasonic cleaner. Other gemstones have varying degrees of durability and should be cleaned by gentler methods. Generally, all you need is warm water, a little dishwashing liquid and a very soft toothbrush. Let your jewelry soak for about twenty minutes, brush gently and rinse well. Be sure to have a strainer or sink stop to avoid loosing a piece down the drain. Soapy jewelry is very slippery!
Pearls
Pearls are organic and much softer than mineral crystals. They are particularly vulnerable to chemicals, cosmetics and perfume which can dull their luster over time. It is best just to wipe them with a clean, soft cloth and store them separately from other jewelry that can scratch their tender surfaces. Frequent use is beneficial to pearls because the body’s natural oils keep them shinny, but don’t wear your pearls when swimming, bathing, using household detergents or crafting materials. Put them on after your cosmetics and perfume and remove them first at the days end.
Storing Your Jewelry
Keep your jewelry in a lined case or in individual cloth pouches so that gemstones don’t abrade each other or scratch softer metals. Most gemstones are harder than gold and silver. Sterling silver and non-precious metals can tarnish and dull some stones and should be wrapped in anti-tarnish cloth. Look after your jewelry and they will retain their sparkle and shine for years to come!
