Caring for Your Jewelry

Keeping Your Jewelry Clean & Safe

We all want our jewelry to last a lifetime or two, or a hundred if you're a vampire--in which case I'd love a chat.

Fancy a coffee?

To have long-lasting jewelry, its important to care for it like you would any keepsake: keep it clean and avoid abusing it (I'm looking at you, guy who destroyed my silver puzzle ring in 11th grade, *sniffle*).

Let's start with the basics...

Most jewelry can be cleaned with mild dish detergent and a child's soft toothbrush. Use warm - not hot - water with a drop or two of soap. Dip the item and then the toothbrush in the soapy water. (Always avoid soaking jewelry, especially in solutions not specifically made for that type of jewelry.) Gently brush the jewelry piece to remove dirt and debris from all the little nooks and crannies. Once you're satisfied with your handiwork, run the piece under clean cool water. Dry with a clean, soft cotton cloth or microfiber cloth. (Paper towels and tissues can scratch the metal.)

(I'm not partial to any particular type of soap.

However, if it's gentle enough to clean oil off baby ducks and seals, or keeps your grandmother's hands looking like those of a 20-year-old model, it's probably a safe bet for cleaning jewelry.)

- Jewelry Polishing Cloths -

I provide jewelry polishing cloths with each piece sold. These are designed to clean and brighten any piece of jewelry you receive from my shop. They work on all types of metals.

Not all jewelry polishing cloths are created equal. Many are specific to certain types of jewelry, like sterling silver or gold. If you need a replacement polishing cloth, read labels carefully. Using the wrong kind can damage your jewelry.

- Ultrasonic Cleaning Machines -

Ultrasonic machines are easy to find and range in price from $29 to $90. Here's one of average-price, but high popularity, on Amazon.com with free one-day Prime shipping. Using heat, vibrations, and either water or a special liquid solution, they quickly (read 2-3 minutes) and easily remove dirt and debris from your jewelry.

When using one of these machines, be sure to check on your piece often to avoid damage. If you're using a special jewelry cleaning solution, be sure the solution is meant for the type of jewelry you're cleaning (not all solutions are created equal).

**Some gemstones (read emerald, fluorite, iolite, lapis lazuli, moonstone, onyx, opal, sunstone, tanzanite, turquoise, and many more), as well as any organic materials (read coral, pearls, shells, etc.), should not be placed in ultrasonic machines, so please do your homework before using one.*

- Everyday Wear - 

Some simple ways to preserve your jewelry include:

• Remove your jewelry prior to showering or swimming. Chlorine can be damaging.
• Put on any hairspray, lotion or perfume before putting on your jewelry.
• Avoid keeping your jewelry in direct sunlight.
• When not being worn regularly, store your jewelry in small, plastic, resealable jewelry bags.
• Preserve the look of your jewelry with jewelry wax, like Renaissance Wax. This is specifically designed for jewelry. Despite age-old rumors, nail polish should not be used on jewelry.

Have more questions? Find more answers Behind the Scenes!

*I am not paid by, endorsing, or in partnership with any other businesses or products mentioned here. These businesses and/or products are merely suggestions. I am not responsible for any issues, including injuries, product damage, or monetary loss that arises from using any of these items. Basically, do your homework before using any new materials.*