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How to Clean and Care for Your Fine Jewellery: Tips for Maintaining Its Beauty and Longevity

 

Jewellery is one of the most treasured items that a person can own. It can be passed down from generation to generation and holds sentimental value that is immeasurable. However, like anything that is worn and used regularly, jewellery needs to be cared for and maintained to ensure that it stays looking beautiful and lasts for many years to come. In this blog post, we will discuss how to clean your jewellery and how to look after it, specifically focusing on fine jewellery. 

 

Why Clean Your Jewellery?

Cleaning your jewellery regularly is important to maintain its longevity and to keep it looking as good as new. Over time, jewellery can become dirty and dull due to exposure to the elements, natural oils from the skin, and dust and dirt in the environment. Cleaning your jewellery will remove any buildup of dirt and oils that can dull the natural beauty over time. Furthermore, regular cleaning can also prevent damage to the jewellery caused by dirt and grime that can accumulate in the hard-to-reach crevices and settings of your jewellery. 

 

How to Clean Your Fine Jewellery

Cleaning your fine jewellery at home is a simple process that can be done with a few basic items. To clean your fine jewellery, you will need the following:

    • A soft toothbrush
    • Warm water
    • Dishwashing detergent

Instructions:

    1. Mix a small amount of dishwashing detergent with warm water in a bowl.
    2. Place your jewellery in the bowl and allow it to soak for a few minutes.
    3. Using a soft toothbrush, gently scrub your jewellery, paying extra attention to hard-to-reach areas and crevices especially on the back and underneath of gems..
    4. Rinse your jewellery thoroughly in warm water.
    5. Dry your jewellery with a soft, clean cloth.

Note: This method is suitable for cleaning gold, platinum, and diamond jewellery. For silver jewellery, use a silver polishing cloth to remove tarnish. 

 

How to clean your fine jewellery with an ultrasonic machine.

Home ultrasonic machines can be affordably purchased online and are an effective way of cleaning jewellery. Follow the manufacturers directions and the instructions as outlined above. 

Please note emeralds, opals and pearls should never be cleaned in an ultrasonic cleaner. 

 

Cleaning Colored Gemstones and Pearls

If you have colored gemstones in your jewellery, you will need to take extra care when cleaning them. Some colored gemstones can be damaged by exposure to certain chemicals and cleaning methods, so it’s important to research the specific gemstone in your jewellery before cleaning it. For example, opals and pearls are delicate and should not be cleaned with harsh chemicals or exposed to excessive heat or sunlight. If you are unsure how to clean your colored gemstone jewellery, it’s best to take it to a professional jeweller for cleaning. 

 

Storing Your Jewellery

Proper storage is also important in caring for your jewellery. When not in use, it’s best to store your jewellery in a secure place while not wearing it. We recommend taking all fine jewellery off at home and only putting it back on when you leave the house. Additionally, it’s best to store your jewellery in a soft pouch or jewellery box to prevent scratches and damage. 

 

Protecting Your Jewellery

While proper cleaning and storage can help maintain the longevity of your jewellery, there are additional steps you can take to protect it from damage. Here are a few tips:

    • Remove your jewellery before engaging in any strenuous activities, such as sports or manual labor.
    • Avoid exposing your jewellery to harsh chemicals, such as cleaning agents and hairspray.
    • Schedule regular check-ups with a professional jeweller to ensure that your jewellery is in good condition and to catch any potential problems before they become major issues. 

 

Final Thoughts

Caring for your fine jewellery doesn’t have to be a difficult or time-consuming task. By following these simple tips and guidelines, you can ensure that your jewellery stays looking beautiful and lasts for many years to come. Remember to clean your jewellery regularly, store it properly, and protect it from damage, and you’ll be able to enjoy your favorite pieces for a lifetime.