How to care for your jewellery

A well-made piece of jewellery is built to last a lifetime — but a little care along the way goes a long way in keeping it looking the way it did the day it arrived.

Gold and Platinum

Both gold and platinum are wonderfully durable, but they still benefit from being treated gently. Try to take rings and bracelets off before swimming, showering, or using household cleaning products, as harsh chemicals can affect the surface over time. Perfume, hand cream, and hairspray are also worth applying before you put your jewellery on rather than after, as they can gradually dull your precious metal.

One of the simplest things you can do to protect your pieces is to store them separately. Gold and platinum can scratch more easily than you'd expect when left jumbled together in a drawer or jewellery box — even pieces resting against each other overnight can leave fine marks over time. A soft pouch, a lined box, or simply keeping pieces apart rather than piled together makes a real difference. 

Whilst gold will continue to reflect light and produce a shinny finish, platinum naturally develops a soft patina over time. Many people love this matte look, but if you'd prefer a brighter finish, it can be polished back. A gentle clean every so often, using warm water, a mild soap, and a soft cloth, is usually all that's needed. Store pieces separately where possible, as gold and platinum can scratch more easily than you'd expect when left jumbled together in a drawer.

Gemstones

Diamonds are the hardest natural substance on earth, which makes them wonderfully hard-wearing — however keeping them polished will keep them bright and dazzling. A soft brush and warm soapy water will keep them sparkling forever.

Sapphires and rubies are also exceptionally durable, second only to diamonds, which makes them a brilliant choice for jewellery worn daily. They're fairly low maintenance, though we'd still recommend avoiding exposure to harsh chemicals and giving them an occasional gentle clean.

Emeralds need a little more care. They're naturally softer than diamonds or sapphires, which can make them more prone to chipping or cracking under pressure. Damage can occur if knocked at the wrong angle, so it's worth being mindful during activities like gardening, sports, or heavy lifting. It is also good to avoid using ultrasonic cleaners, steam cleaning, and sudden temperature changes, and stick to a soft cloth and lukewarm water when cleaning at home.

If you're ever unsure how to care for a specific piece, just get in touch. And if something does need a little attention down the line, we're always happy to help restore it to its best.