Caring for Your Jewelry

TIPS TO PROTECT YOUR JEWELRY AND PREVENT TARNISHINNG

There are a number of things you can do to prevent sterling silver, gold-filled or gold vermeil jewelry from tarnishing. Here are some things you can do to help your jewelry stay beautiful:

  • Avoid exposing your jewelry to water or moisture for prolonged periods. Remove your jewelry before swimming, showering, or engaging in activities that may cause excessive sweating.
  • Store your jewelry in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and other sources of heat. Put your sterling silver, gold vermeil and gold-filled jewelry box or zip lock bag separate from other types of jewelry when not in use. Avoid storing freshwater pearls in airtight containers like zip lock bags, as this can cause them to become brittle.
  • Avoid contact with harsh chemicals such as perfumes, lotions, and cleaning products. Swimming pools and hot tubs also have chemicals that are hard on jewelry.
  • Avoid antibacterial soaps which can make jewelry tarnish more quickly. 
  • Avoid using polishing cloths on gold-filled and gold vermeil jewelry as it will increase wear and affect the shine.
  • Remove jewelry when doing household chores to protect it from abrasive or harsh chemicals.
  • Store your jewelry in an individual bag in a cool, dry and dark place.  Some people use plastic baggies.
  • Use anti-tarnish strips or silica packs in each bag or box containing your silver jewelry. 

 

SPECIAL CARE FOR FRESHWATER PEARLS

Freshwater pearls are delicate and require special care. In addition to the general steps above for protecting jewelry, follow these extra steps to care for your freshwater pearls.

  • Avoid contact with skincare products like perfume, hairspray, and fake tan. Also, keep your pearls away from acidic substances like vinegar and lemon juice.
  • Use a soft, damp microfiber cloth to gently clean your pearls after wearing them. Store carefully
  • Store your pearls in a soft cloth pouch or soft-lined jewelry box, out of direct sunlight and away from other jewelry.
  • Avoid storing your pearls them in airtight containers like zip lock bags, as this can cause them to become brittle.
  • Wearing your pearls often helps keep them from drying out.

 

TIPS FOR CLEANING JEWELRY

Sterling Silver

Soaking your sterling silver in warm soapy water is the best way to remove tarnish. The best method is to pour warm water into a glass bowl large enough to hold the gold piece then add a couple of drops of dishwashing liquid and the jewelry. Soak for 15-20 minute and very gently scrub the jewelry with a soft toothbrush or cloth to remove tarnish. Rinse and dry with a microfiber cloth.

 

Gold fill and gold vermeil

Gently clean your gold-filled jewelry each time you wear it by wiping with a soft cloth. If you've been exercising or wearing lotions or perfumes, rinse with lukewarm water and dry with a cloth. For deep cleaning, soak your jewelry in a bowl of lukewarm water with a bit of mild soap for about a minute. Gently wash and dry with a towel. For intricate pieces or chains, use a soft toothbrush to clean any buildup. Don't rub the jewelry, as this could discolor it over time. 

 

Freshwater Pearls

Use a soft, damp microfiber cloth to gently clean your pearls after wearing them.