Caring for your Jewellery at Home
Caring for your Jewellery at Home

We have had alot of people buying coloured gemstone jewellery lately and its important to note that all gemstones cannot be treated equally! Each stone has its own unique set of traits.

Here are some key things to be aware of to avoid damage or discolouration to your precious jewels and ensure they are in tip top condition and showing off their unique qualities for years to come.

Keep away from Chemicals

Exposure to chemicals can damage or discolour precious metals - gold, silver, platinum and some coloured gems. Products like Hairspray, perfumes, body lotions and other cosmetics containing chemicals can also permanently damage the surface of pearls and other porous gems e.g a turqouise.

Fine Jewellery shouldn't be worn in chlorinated water or be in contact with household cleaners, they can contain ammonia which can be too harsh especially on vintage jewellery or more delicate gems.

Take Care with Light or Heat

Light and hear can affect the durability and the colour. Over time damage can be caused or some stones may fade. Stones such as Ameythyst, Tanzanite and Topaz for example will bleach under extreme exposure to light and heat.


Treated Gems

Its important to take special care of gems that are heat treated to improve the quality of the colour.
Heat, solvents, steam and ultrasonic cleansers can have an affect. Knowing whether your gem has been treated is the first step to ensuring the right care is taken.


Ultrasonic Cleaners

These should be used with caution, we advise refraining from using an ultrasonic with the following:

  • Pearls
  • Coral
  • Amber
  • Ivory
  • Gems susceptible to heat e.g Tanzanite, Moonstone, Kunzite, Opal, Topaz, Turqouise and others
  • Heat treated stones

Vibration can shake gems loose or chip so if unsure, best to leave this to the jewellery experts! We offer Free Clean and Checks on up to 3 items of jewellery at once!

Cleaning your Jewellery at Home

Warm water, mild dish soap (no detergent), soft brush or a lint free cloth will do a pretty good job of keeping your special jewels clean without the worry of any damagePearls are susceptible to scratching so use a new clean soft brush and warm soapy water. Lay on a towel to dry and avoid touching the strand until they are completely dry as the string will shrink.
We also recommend if you wear your pearls regularly to have them restrung on an annual basis.

Richard-James-Jeweller-Jewellery-Care

Storage

Sterling Silver - keep in an anti-tarnish bag

Keep jewellery items individually stored where possible - there are many good jewellery boxes that have padded slots. Ideally to hang necklaces is also recommended.

Pearls and Opals are susceptible to moisture so we recommend storing these in a dry area.

If you have any questions or queries about any jewellery you are unsure about with regard to its care, please contact us or bring your jewellery in and we can clean it for you and advise on the best home care.