How to care for jewellery

Gold and silver jewellery will look magnificent on you whilst sparkling in its full brilliance. However, it is in the nature of all metals, including precious ones, to oxidise on contact with air. This means that your cherished pieces that you wear most often will start to lose their shine after some time, and a layer of oil and dirt will form on them. Unfortunately, even pieces you carefully store and wear only occasionally can tarnish if you do not maintain them correctly. Worry not, there are easy ways to restore the original shine to your favourite jewellery and ensure it looks as if you bought it recently for a long time to come.

Small changes to daily habits

The easiest way to keep your gold jewellery in ideal condition is to protect it every day from moisture, dirt and knocks. When you get home, take off your jewellery and store it in a dark, flat and dry place, ideally in a display cabinet or jewellery box. Avoid showering or washing your hands while wearing your jewellery. Instead, place it somewhere dry and put it back on after you have finished showering and applying lotions, creams and perfume. This prevents soap residue (or other substances) from building up on the precious metal, making the cleaning process much easier.

Tips for correct regular cleaning

Dirt easily builds up on gold jewellery that you wear regularly: natural oils produced by your skin, sweat, dust, everyday cosmetics, and so on. To restore the lustre of your gold jewellery, you need to take a little time and care. Pour warm water with a drop of washing-up liquid into a bowl, mix well and submerge the jewellery in the solution for three hours. After soaking, clean the gold jewellery gently with a soft (never harsh) toothbrush. Rinse it under cold running water and clean it with a dedicated polishing cloth.

What to avoid when cleaning jewellery

Some cleaning products you have at home might seem like a great solution for gold jewellery when you cannot take it for professional cleaning. However, certain substances should be avoided as they will damage your jewellery. When cleaning, wiping and polishing gold, paper towels and tissues are not recommended as they can cause micro-scratches and damage your cherished pieces. Similarly, do not use baking soda or toothpaste when polishing gold, as these can weaken and damage the metal.

Storing gold jewellery

Gold jewellery should be stored carefully to prevent damage and preserve its lustre. It is best to wrap unworn pieces in a soft cloth before placing them in a box or drawer. Jewellery boxes are also a wonderful solution if lined with soft fabric; adding a few silica gel sachets helps absorb moisture. When doing manual work or washing dishes, we recommend removing your jewellery to avoid damage from impacts or chemicals, especially if you wear rings. Take your gold off, keep it in a dry and safe place, and only put it back on when you have finished your task.

Caring for silver jewellery

Fortunately, caring for silver jewellery is straightforward, and there are many methods you can try at home if you cannot take it for professional cleaning. The gentlest method, which we whole-heartedly recommend, is cleaning silver pieces with warm soapy water and then polishing them with a soft silver-polishing cloth. You can also make a thick paste from baking soda and water, using a soft brush or cloth to clean any build-up. Alternatively, soak your silver for two hours in a bowl containing half a glass of vinegar mixed with two tablespoons of baking soda, then rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth.

Whether you prefer gold or silver jewellery, knowing how to care for it correctly is essential. Without devoting time and care to proper maintenance, you risk allowing your jewellery to tarnish or become damaged. Wearing, storing and maintaining your jewellery properly when not in use will extend its lifespan and ensure it retains its beauty and lustre for years to come.