Keeping your precious jewellery intact requires regular maintenance. By checking that it’s in good condition, you’ll identify problems early, such as loose stones and weak claws. Annual inspections are a good idea, especially for rings, as they are subject to daily wear and tear.
Cleaning and caring for diamonds
- Ironic as it may sound, the hardest substance known to man can still be damaged or dulled. Fortunately, caring for your diamond jewellery is quite simple.
- If you throw your diamond jewellery in with other pieces, it’s bound to get scratched and could scratch other pieces.
- It’s best to keep in a fabric lined jewellery box, preferably wrapped in tissue paper.
- If you’re doing heavy work or exercising, don’t risk chipping or loosening a setting – perhaps don’t wear it at all.
- Be careful of dulling your diamonds by exposing them to household products such as cosmetics, hairspray, soap, moisturisers and even perspiration.
- Keep them well away from chlorine, bleach or other chemicals because they can pit or discolour the mounting.
A natural cleaning solution
Here’s a solution for keeping your diamonds sparkling clean. Mix a small amount of ammonia, with hot water and a few drops of mild liquid detergent in a small jar. Soak your jewellery for a few minutes, then remove and dab gently with a soft toothbrush. Place the jewellery in the solution for a few more minutes, then remove and rinse in hot water, and dry with a soft lint-free cloth or a tissue.
Cleaning and caring for coloured stone jewellery
Cleaning your coloured stones is the same procedure that you’d apply to diamonds – except you need to take extra care as they’re not as hard as diamonds. We suggest you use luke-warm water but bear in mind this doesn’t apply to porous stones such as lapis, opal, turquoise, coral, pearls and jade which must not be soaked in water. We recommend a professional clean, which we can help you with. Just book a time and we’ll do it on the spot for you.
Caring for pearl jewellery
Like most precious jewellery, the appearance of your pearls can be affected if subjected to perfumes, deodorants or creams. To avoid discolouring, allow your cosmetics to dry before putting your pearls on. Wipe them gently with a soft dry cloth after every wear and never wear them in the ocean, shower or swimming pool.
With pearl earrings it’s a good idea to have the fittings checked for security now and again and for strands of pearls it’s best to re-thread them every couple of years as the silk thread can stretch with wear.
If you’re not sure, pop in and we can advise on how to best look after your jewellery.