The Ultimate Guide to Jewellery Care: Essential Tips and Tricks

When you invest in beautiful jewellery—whether it’s a sentimental heirloom, a custom engagement ring, or your favourite everyday piece—proper care is essential to preserve its brilliance, structure, and value. With just a little mindful attention, your jewellery can remain as dazzling as the day you first wore it, ready to be passed down for generations.

Why Jewellery Care Matters

Jewellery is far more than an accessory—it often carries meaning, memory, and emotion. But daily exposure to sweat, perfume, lotions, and even air pollution can cause pieces to lose their lustre or weaken over time. By caring for your jewellery regularly, you not only protect your investment but also safeguard the stories and sentiments attached to it.

Metal Care: Tips for a Long-Lasting Shine

Gold (Yellow, White, Rose)

• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Chlorine, bleach, and detergents can discolour and weaken gold.

• Polish Gently: Use a soft cloth for everyday shine, or soak in warm water with a little mild soap for a deeper clean.

• Store Separately: Gold is soft, so store pieces in individual pouches to prevent scratches.

Sterling Silver

• Prevent Tarnish: Store with anti-tarnish strips and clean with a silver polishing cloth.

• Wear Often: Silver naturally stays brighter with regular wear.

• Deep Clean: For stubborn tarnish, soak in a baking soda and warm water solution, then polish.

Platinum

• Strong but Scratch-Prone: Platinum resists wear but can still dull with scratches.

• Professional Buffing: Have it polished annually to restore a flawless finish.

• Gentle Cleaning: Use warm soapy water and a soft brush—never abrasives.

Gemstone Care: Keeping the Sparkle Alive

Diamonds – Hard but Grease-Prone

• Clean Regularly: Diamonds attract oil, so use warm water, mild soap, and a soft brush.

• Protect Settings: Avoid knocks that could loosen prongs or chip edges.

Emeralds – Vivid but Fragile

• Handle with Care: Their natural inclusions make them delicate.

• No Ultrasonic Cleaners: Wipe gently with a damp cloth only.

Sapphires & Rubies – Durable with Caveats

• Tough but Sensitive: Heat and chemicals can damage them.

• Gentle Soap Clean: Warm water and a soft brush work best.

Opals & Pearls – Delicate Treasures

• Avoid Water & Perfume: Both are highly sensitive to moisture and chemicals.

• Last On, First Off: Put them on after dressing and store in soft fabric.

• Never Abrasive: Wipe gently with a microfiber cloth.

General Jewellery Care Tips

• Remove Before Activities: Take off pieces before swimming, cleaning, or exercising.

• Protect from Sunlight: Some gemstones can fade in direct light.

• Keep Jewellery Dry: Moisture weakens adhesives and accelerates tarnish.

• Inspect Regularly: Check clasps and prongs to prevent accidental loss.

Jewellery is designed to be worn and loved, but a little thoughtful care keeps it looking its very best. For deep cleaning, polishing, or repairs, entrust your pieces to a professional.

Visit us at 30 Hatton Garden, London for expert jewellery care and advice tailored to your collection—because every treasured piece deserves the finest attention.