Welcome to the ultimate guide to jewellery care! As someone who has spent years working with precious metals and gemstones, I often get asked about how to properly maintain and clean jewellery. In this guide, I'll be sharing my top tips to help you keep your jewellery looking its best for years to come.
Why Clean Your Jewellery?
Over time, jewellery can become dull and dirty due to exposure to dirt, oils, and chemicals. Not only can this detract from its beauty, but it can also damage the metal and gemstones. By regularly cleaning and maintaining your jewellery, you can help prevent this.
Cleaning Silver Jewellery
To clean your silver jewellery, you can get a silver dip from any major supermarket. My favourite brand is Goddards. Simply drop your jewellery into the solution until you see the tarnish leave the silver. Rinse and dry it with a soft cloth. If there are lots of small nooks or stubborn parts, take a toothbrush and gently scrub them with the silver dip. However, do NOT put pearls, opals, coral, or emeralds in the silver dip as these stones are porous or delicate and the chemicals in the silver dip can damage them.
Cleaning Gemstones
When cleaning gemstones, it's important to use a gentle touch to avoid damaging the stone. To clean your gemstone jewellery, mix a small amount of dish soap with water and use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub the piece from behind the stone. Rinse it thoroughly with water and then dry it with a soft cloth.
Storing Your Jewellery
Proper storage is just as important as cleaning when it comes to jewellery care. Store your jewellery in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat, to prevent damage. Avoid storing multiple pieces of jewellery together, as they can scratch and damage each other. The perfect storage solution is the box that your jeweller gives you when you purchase your jewellery. In conclusion, taking good care of your jewellery is essential if you want it to last for years to come.
By following these simple cleaning and maintenance tips, you can help keep your jewellery looking its best and preserve its value. Remember to handle your jewellery with care, store it properly, and clean it regularly to maintain its beauty and shine. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to visit your local jewellers who can professionally clean your jewellery, or leave me a comment in the box below!