Jewellery Care
Jewellery Care Guide
Every piece of jewellery I make is designed to be worn, loved and enjoyed for many years.
Precious metals naturally change over time, and gemstones deserve a little care too. Looking after your jewellery doesn't need to be complicated—just a few simple habits will help keep it looking beautiful for years to come.
If you're wondering why sterling silver tarnishes, why gold can sometimes lose its shine, or why jewellery behaves differently from one person to another, I've written a detailed journal article explaining the science behind it.
→ Read: Why Does Silver Tarnish? The Truth About Sterling Silver, Gold and Body Chemistry
General jewellery care
A few everyday habits will help your jewellery stay in the best possible condition.
- Put your jewellery on after applying perfume, moisturiser, sunscreen or hairspray.
- Remove jewellery before swimming in chlorinated pools or hot tubs.
- Take jewellery off before using household cleaning products.
- Avoid wearing jewellery during heavy lifting, gardening or activities where it could be knocked or scratched.
- Store each piece separately in a jewellery box or soft pouch to prevent scratches.
Jewellery is made to be worn, but a little care goes a long way.
Caring for sterling silver jewellery
Sterling silver naturally tarnishes over time. This is completely normal and doesn't mean your jewellery is poor quality.
How quickly it tarnishes depends on many factors, including your body chemistry, humidity, skincare products and your environment.
To keep sterling silver looking its best:
- Wipe it with a soft polishing cloth after wearing.
- Store it somewhere dry rather than in a humid bathroom.
- Clean light tarnish with a silver polishing cloth.
- For heavier tarnish, use a cleaner designed specifically for sterling silver and always follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Avoid abrasive cleaning products that may scratch the surface.
Caring for solid gold jewellery
Solid gold is one of the most durable precious metals, making it an excellent choice for everyday wear.
Over time, however, even solid 9ct and 18ct gold can lose a little of their original shine due to everyday wear, cosmetics and natural body chemistry.
To keep your gold jewellery looking beautiful:
- Clean it occasionally with warm water, a small amount of mild washing-up liquid and a very soft toothbrush.
- Dry thoroughly with a soft lint-free cloth.
- Store pieces separately to avoid scratches.
- Remove jewellery before using harsh chemicals.
If your gold jewellery begins to look dull, a professional polish will usually restore its original shine.
Sea glass jewellery
Sea glass has already spent many years being shaped by the ocean, making every piece beautifully unique.
Although it's surprisingly durable, it's still worth treating it with care.
I recommend:
- Avoid dropping it onto hard surfaces.
- Remove jewellery before heavy physical work.
- Clean with warm water and a soft cloth.
- Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
Gemstone jewellery
Natural gemstones vary in hardness, so different stones require different levels of care.
As a general guide:
- Avoid sudden temperature changes.
- Keep gemstones away from harsh chemicals.
- Remove gemstone jewellery before heavy manual work.
- Clean with warm water, mild soap and a soft brush unless you've been advised otherwise.
If your jewellery contains pearls, opals or other softer gemstones, please contact me before using any cleaning products.
Storing your jewellery
The way you store your jewellery makes a bigger difference than many people realise.
I recommend:
- keeping each piece separate
- storing jewellery somewhere dry
- avoiding direct sunlight for long periods
- using the pouch or jewellery box provided whenever possible
A dry jewellery box is always a better choice than a bathroom cabinet.
Professional cleaning and polishing
Every piece of jewellery will benefit from an occasional professional clean.
If your jewellery has become heavily tarnished, scratched or simply lost some of its sparkle, I'm always happy to help.
Professional cleaning and polishing can often make a well-loved piece look almost new again.
A little reassurance
Jewellery is made to become part of your life.
Small marks, gentle scratches and the occasional polish are all signs that a piece has been worn and loved.
With the right care, solid gold and sterling silver jewellery can last for generations, creating new memories with every person who wears it.
If you're ever unsure how to care for your jewellery or have a question about a piece I've made, please don't hesitate to get in touch. I'm always happy to help.