jewelry care

Our mission is to make jewelry that lasts forever and to show you that good jewelry does last a lifetime (or more). In order for this to happen, we want to give you the necessary tools and care information to keep your pieces in the best condition. 

Proper jewelry storage is often overlooked. Jewelry should never be tossed into a drawer or on top of a dresser; this is to preserve the gems and prevent scratches to your pieces. The best way to keep your jewelry, is to store them in the same box that you received your pieces. Sterling silver, for example, should be kept in an anti-tarnish bag or cloth. That is why we have made a special bag for you to keep your jewelry in and is perfect for travelling. 

Soft gems and pearls can easily be scratched. Most of the gems can be cleaned using warm water and a mild green soap, and a soft brush. No detergents should be used. Be sure to then rinse your jewelry in a glass of water, so there is no risk of losing any loose stones. 

When cleaning sterling silver, remember that it is a very soft metal and can easily be scratched by fabrics or even by fingernails. For this reason, use one of the following methods to clean heavier marks and tarnish. This also applies to gold and gold plated jewelry. 

To remove fingerprints, light grease or dirt, add a small amount of mild liquid soap to a half cup of warm water. Soak for two to three minutes and then rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry completely before storing. 

Be careful when using any soaking method to clean jewelry such as, chlorine bleach, ammonia, chemical solutions or an ultrasonic cleaner. Soft stones such as Amber, Lapis Lazuli, malachiet, onyx, opals, pearls or Turquoise are porous stones, and may absorb chemicals which then build up inside the stone cause discoloration. So, simply wipe them clean with a moist cloth.

To maintain the original condition of your jewelry, polish your pieces regularly using a non-abrasive cloth. Remember not to use paper towels or tissues to dry, always use a soft cloth, which can also be ordered on our website.

When not wearing your jewelry, store them in a cool, dry place. For instance; a zip-lock bag. Individual cloth pouches are ideal for storage and will help prevent both tarnishing and scratching from other items.

Never wear jewelry when doing physical work, exercise, gardening or cleaning. Never expose your jewelry to chlorinated pools. 

Other common chemicals to avoid when wearing your jewelry

Rubbing alcohol

Turpentine

Acetone

Salt water

Mineral springs

Suntan lotion

Ammonia

These chemicals can dull or even pit softer gemstones

Petroleum based products can actually melt Amber if left on the stone without cleaning, and they also do significant damage to Pearls. Avoid abrasive cleaners, detergents, and commercial jewelry cleaners or “dips” especially if the pieces have an oxidised finish.

To keep your jewelry in the best condition, we recommend that you have them checked every nine to twelve months.

Cleaning your plated jewelry

Plated jewelry should be cleaned once every few weeks. Even if you’re sure that your pieces have not been exposed to the above mentioned solutions, they have been in touch with your skin – which perspires. 

Wash plated jewelry in the same way as your silver and gold pieces, using warm water. Only use a mild soap if necessary. Be gentle whilst cleaning, and never rub too hard. We have previously seen examples of gold plated jewelry, that has been rubbed too hard, have the plating removed so be careful. 

Re-plating

If a thin layer of gold has worn off in spots, don’t despair! This can be fixed. Just send us an email and we can talk about re-plating your pieces.