COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE TO JEWELLERY MAINTENANCE

 Introduction to Jewellery Care

When clothes start to fade, it's a no-brainer to replace them. But when it comes to jewellery, the approach needs to be more thoughtful. Despite their durability, diamonds can chip and lose stones if not handled with care, potentially ruining a cherished piece.

Handling Jewellery: Less Is More

The essential principle to remember is that minimizing contact with your jewellery is beneficial. Oils from your skin can transfer onto diamonds, forming a film that dulls their brilliance over time. To keep your favourite pieces, like diamond rings, sparkling, avoid unnecessary touching.

Moreover, steer clear of applying hairspray, lotions, or creams while wearing your diamond jewellery. These products can discolour the stones and diminish their shine. Even though diamonds resist water, they attract grease and oils easily, impacting both cut and uncut diamonds.

Routine Cleaning of Diamond Jewellery

Diamonds shine due to how light passes through them. However, substances like grease and sweat can obstruct this light, causing them to lose their sparkle. Regular cleaning is crucial to maintain their brilliance. Follow these simple steps to clean your diamond jewellery.

Steps for Cleaning Diamond Jewellery:

1. Prepare Cleaning Solution: Fill a bowl with warm water and add a few drops of mild, unscented soap.
2. Soak: Immerse your jewellery in the solution for about 30 minutes.
3. Dry: Remove the jewellery and pat it dry with a clean cloth.
4. Brush: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub away any remaining residue.

Proper Storage for Diamonds

Protecting your diamonds involves more than just preventing loss or theft; you must also guard against physical damage. Diamonds can scratch each other or other jewellery if they come into contact. To avoid this, store each piece separately. Consider using a fabric-lined jewellery bag with compartments or wrapping individual items in soft tissue.

Cleaning Gold Jewellery

Gold jewellery, like diamonds, requires regular upkeep to retain its shine. Fortunately, cleaning gold at home is straightforward. Here’s how you can keep your gold jewellery looking its best:

Steps for Cleaning Gold Jewellery:

1. Mix Solution: Create a solution with warm water and a few drops of mild soap or dishwashing liquid.
2. Soak: Submerge the gold jewellery in this mixture for 15-20 minutes.
3. Rinse and Dry: Rinse with cold water and lay the jewellery flat on a clean, dry cloth to air dry completely.
4. Brush: Use a soft-bristled brush to clean any dirt from crevices gently, avoiding vigorous rubbing.
5. Store Safely: Keep the cleaned jewellery in a secure jewellery box.

Additional Tips

To maintain the original shine of plain gold and gemstone-studded pieces, clean them gently. Avoid using extreme temperatures or tap water. Opt for sodium-free seltzer or club soda to help loosen grime, or use a professional jeweller’s cleaning solution for best results.