Caring for your jewelry
Care Instructions for Silver, Gold, and Gold-Plated Jewelry with Gemstones
Proper care and maintenance of your silver, gold, and gold-plated jewelry with gemstones can help preserve their beauty and longevity. Follow these care instructions to ensure your jewelry remains in excellent condition or :
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1. Storage:
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Store your jewelry in a clean, dry place to prevent tarnishing and damage.
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Use a jewelry box or soft pouches to keep each piece separate to prevent scratches and tangling.
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Avoid storing jewelry in humid environments or direct sunlight.
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2. Cleaning:
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Silver: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently polish silver jewelry. Avoid abrasive materials as they can scratch the metal. Silver tarnish can be removed with a silver polishing cloth or a silver cleaning solution.
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Gold: Wipe gold jewelry with a soft cloth to remove dirt and oils. Occasionally soak the piece in warm, soapy water and gently scrub with a soft brush to remove grime. Rinse and pat dry with a soft cloth.
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Gold-Plated: Clean gold-plated jewelry with a damp, soft cloth and mild dish soap. Avoid vigorous scrubbing, as it may wear off the gold plating
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3. Gemstones:
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Gemstone jewelry may require specific care depending on the type of gemstone. Some examples of delicate gems that we use are pearls, moonstones, opals, sunstones, and labradorites.
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Avoid exposing gemstones to harsh chemicals, extreme heat, and sudden temperature changes, as they can damage or discolor the stones.
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Be gentle with gemstone settings; they are more delicate than the metal they are set in.
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4. Maintenance:
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Inspect your jewelry regularly for loose stones or signs of wear. If you notice any issues, have them repaired by a professional jeweler.
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Check the clasps and fastenings to ensure they are secure.
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5. Avoid Exposure:
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Remove jewelry when performing activities that may expose it to chemicals, like cleaning or swimming, as these substances can harm both the metal and the gemstones. Swimming in chlorine can attack your gold ring, for example. Because it is made with other metals to strengthen gold, chlorine affects those other metals and will leave tiny pores in the metal making it brittle.
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Keep jewelry away from perfumes, lotions, and hairsprays, as they can tarnish or damage the metal and affect the gemstones.
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6. Professional Cleaning and Inspection:
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Periodically, take your jewelry to a professional jeweler for a thorough cleaning and inspection to identify any potential issues early.
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7. Travel:
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When traveling, use a dedicated jewelry travel case to protect your pieces from damage.
By following these care instructions, you can enjoy your silver, gold, and gold-plated jewelry with gemstones for years to come, preserving their beauty and value. Always consult with a professional jeweler for specific care recommendations, especially for high-value or unique pieces.