How to Care for Your Jewellery: Cleaning & Storage Guide
5 min read
Learn professional care tips to keep your precious jewellery beautiful for generations.
Proper care extends the life of your jewellery and keeps it looking radiant. Follow these professional tips to protect your investment.
Daily Care Practices
Remove Before Activities
Take off jewellery before:
- Swimming (chlorine and salt water damage metals)
- Exercising (sweat accelerates tarnishing)
- Sleeping (pressure can bend delicate pieces)
- Harsh cleaning or gardening
- Direct sunlight (fades some gemstones)
- High humidity (accelerates tarnishing)
- Temperature extremes (can crack stones)
- Other jewellery (pieces scratch each other)
- Individual cloth pouches for each piece
- Soft-lined jewellery box or drawer
- Anti-tarnish strips for silver
- Cool, dry place away from moisture
- Engagement rings worn daily
- Vintage or antique pieces
- Jewellery with delicate settings
- Pieces with intricate designs
Avoid Chemical Exposure
Perfume, lotion, and makeup contain chemicals that can dull metals and stones. Put on jewellery after applying these products.
Gentle Handling
Precious metals are softer than you'd think. Even a small drop can cause damage. Hold pieces securely and avoid twisting or bending.
Cleaning Your Jewellery
For Gold
Mix mild dish soap with warm water. Soak for 10-15 minutes, then gently scrub with a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth.
For Silver
Silver tarnishes naturally — this is normal. For light tarnish, use a silver polishing cloth. For heavy tarnish, use a silver dip solution (follow package instructions carefully).
For stubborn buildup, a professional jeweller can professionally polish your pieces.
For Diamonds & Gemstones
Follow the same soap-and-water method as gold. Never use harsh chemicals on colored stones — some are sensitive to heat or abrasive cleaners.
Proper Storage
Keep Away From:
Best Storage:
Professional Care
Have your jewellery professionally cleaned and inspected annually, especially:
A professional jeweller can spot loose stones, worn prongs, and damage before they become major problems.
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