Jewellery often represents more than just material value—it carries sentimental memories, marks milestones, and is often intended to be a family heirloom. To ensure the enduring life and brilliance of your favourite pieces, proper jewellery care is not just an option; it's a necessity. With mindful handling and regular cleaning, you can preserve the beauty and shine of your collection for years to come.

The Golden Rule: When to Take It Off

The biggest threat to jewellery brilliance is prolonged exposure to everyday chemicals and physical abrasion. Following the "Last On, First Off" rule is paramount.

• Avoid Chemical Contact: Always remove jewelry before showering, swimming, or doing household chores. Chlorine, saltwater, and cleaning agents can severely damage metals and degrade softer stones.

• Beware of Beauty Products: Take off rings and necklaces before applying perfumes, lotions, hairsprays, and makeup. These products leave residue that dulls the surface, attracts dirt, and accelerates tarnish on silver and gold. Wait until your products have fully absorbed before putting your pieces back on.

• No Exercise: Remove jewelry before exercising or engaging in rigorous activities. Sweat can be corrosive, and impact can bend settings, leading to loose stones.

Safe Storage: Protecting Your Investment

Improper storage is a leading cause of scratches and wear. Diamonds, while hard, can still scratch other, softer gemstones and metals.

• Store Separately: Always keep items stored separately in individual soft fabric pouches, compartmentalized jewelry boxes, or lined drawers. This prevents pieces from rubbing against each other.

• Cool, Dry Place: Store your collection away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and excessive moisture (like a bathroom). Heat and humidity can cause discoloration and damage organic materials like pearls and opals.

Cleaning Techniques for Enduring Shine

Regular, gentle cleaning removes the oils and dirt that cause dullness.

• Mild Soap and Water: For most solid metals (gold, silver, platinum) and hard gemstones (diamonds, sapphires), clean gently with a solution of mild dish soap and lukewarm water. Use a very soft brush (like a baby toothbrush) to gently scrub behind settings where dirt hides. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a lint-free cloth.

• Polishing Cloths: For routine maintenance and restoring luster, use a specially treated polishing cloth specifically designed for jewelry. This is the best method for removing light tarnish on silver pieces.

• Handle with Care: For plated or fashion jewelry, avoid abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals. Also, generally avoid ultrasonic machines for porous stones, plated items, or vintage pieces, as the vibration can dislodge stones.

Specific Care for Delicate Gems

Some materials require extra attention:

• Pearls: Pearls are organic and porous. Never soak them in water or use chemicals. Wipe them clean with a soft, damp cloth after wearing. Because they absorb moisture, it's actually beneficial to wear them frequently!

• Opals and Turquoises: These are soft and can crack or lose color if exposed to extreme heat or dryness. Store them carefully away from heat sources.

Professional Check-ups and Repairs

Even with the best at-home care, professional attention is necessary to maintain structural integrity.

• Inspect Regularly: Get into the habit of inspecting all your jewellery. Check clasps to ensure they close securely and look for any loose stones in the settings. Any loose or wobbly stone should be repaired promptly to prevent loss.

• Annual Check-ups: For all valuable items (such as engagement rings or diamond pieces), schedule professional cleaning and check-ups yearly. A jeweller can spot microscopic wear, tighten prongs, and give your pieces a deep, safe clean, ensuring your sentimental pieces continue to look new and preserve their value for the next generation.

Thoughtful, consistent care is the key to enjoying your sparkling jewellery for a lifetime.