Preserve the Brilliance for Generations.
The more you love a piece of jewelry, the more often you’re likely to wear it. That means it’s going to get dirty—there’s no getting around it. Luckily, if you treat your jewelry right, clean it regularly and store it properly, your favorite sterling silver bracelet, pearl earrings, or unique vintage ruby ring can still stand the test of time. Ensure your gems maintain their sparkle with these tips for taking good care of your jewelry.
The main thing to remember is to avoid exposing your gemstone jewelry to extremes of any kind. Here’s what prolonged exposure to direct heat or light can do to your gemstones.
Continued exposure to light over time can have negative effects on the durability and color of some gemstones. More delicate stones, such as pearls, can bleach under extreme exposure to light, while other gems, such as amber, can darken over time. Proper storage will keep your jewelry safe from the sun’s rays.
Most gemstones are formed as a result of pressure and heat. Some are then heat treated to produce certain colors or change the structure, so excessive heat can change the stone you bought into something else entirely. Sudden changes in temperature can also cause some gemstones to fracture. Pearls are susceptible to drying out which will cause them to crack and discolor. Opals could turn white or brown and develop tiny cracks.
If you’re considering using a household cleaning product to give your favorite jewelry a quick cleaning, don’t. Abrasive chemicals can scratch or discolor more delicate gems so it’s best to stay away from them. Rinsing your jewelry in warm water mixed with a tiny bit of gentle dish detergent and drying with a soft cloth will be enough to keep it clean. If you feel like your jewelry needs a deeper clean, a professional jeweler is your best bet. Jared offersfree jewelry cleaning and inspection servicesand our experts can give you advice on keeping your pieces in good shape.
Gently clean your jewelry using a soft, lint-free cloth after each use to remove oils and residue. Avoid the use of harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, or abrasive materials that may damage the surface or setting. For deeper cleaning, use mild soap with lukewarm water and dry thoroughly with a soft cloth. Ensure your jewelry is completely dry before storing to prevent moisture-related damage. We recommend periodic professional cleaning and inspection to maintain the integrity of stones and settings.
