Caring for Fine Jewelry
While our jewelry was created to last a lifetime, there are some factors that can contribute to the everyday wear and tear of your fine jewelry.
Storing your Jewelry
Because of the high value and rarity of certain jewelry, some people like to store their jewelry in a safe when not in use. If you have individual gemstones, a soft pouch is good for keeping them from coming in contact with other hard surfaces. Store silver jewelry in a cool, dry place, preferably in a soft piece of felt or cloth. Ask one of our sales representatives about getting a jewelry box for all your valued treasures. If you would like to have your jewelry professionally cleaned, bring it in to S.E. Needham Jewelers and we will have your jewelry looking shiny and new!
Cleaning Your Jewelry
Be careful using ultrasonic cleaners, as only certain gemstones can handle the ultrasonic vibrations. Diamond cleaners usually contain ammonia and water. Using a soft brush you can remove dust or dirt from under the setting. Silver jewelry can be cleaned with a silver polishing cloth, with or without special silver cleaning solution.
Jewelry Tips & Practices
One of the most effective ways to keep your jewelry safe and well-maintained is by having a designated storage place, such as a [jewelry box or organizer]. Consistently placing your jewelry in this designated spot reduces the risk of misplacement or damage, ensuring that your precious pieces remain safe.
Diamond Jewelry
Diamond jewelry, known for its timeless elegance and durability, requires regular care to maintain its brilliance. To keep your diamond jewelry sparkling, clean it regularly with our at-home cleaner and a soft-bristled brush. Avoid exposing diamonds to harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the metal settings or cloud the stones' brilliance. Additionally, have your diamond jewelry professionally inspected and cleaned every six months to ensure that it remains in optimal condition.
Silver Jewelry
Silver jewelry, prized for its lustrous shine and versatility, requires special care to prevent tarnishing. To keep your silver jewelry looking its best, store it in airtight containers or anti-tarnish pouches to minimize exposure to air and moisture. Clean silver jewelry regularly with a silver polishing cloth or a mild silver cleaner to remove tarnish and restore its shine. Avoid exposing silver jewelry to harsh chemicals, such as chlorine or sulfur, as these can accelerate tarnishing. If your silver jewelry does tarnish, gently polish it with a silver cleaner.
Gemstone Jewelry
Gemstone jewelry, featuring a wide variety of precious and semi-precious stones, requires careful handling and maintenance to preserve its beauty. To care for gemstone jewelry, clean it regularly with a soft, damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. Avoid exposing gemstones to harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the stones or degrade their color. Additionally, gemstones are softer than diamond and require extra precaution to prevent scratching and breaking. Remember to remove your gemstones jewelry before doing an activity that includes contact like going to the gym, gardening or lifting heavy items. Some gemstones, such as opals and morganite, are particularly delicate and may require special care. If in doubt, consult a jeweler for guidance on the best cleaning methods and practices for your specific gemstone jewelry.
Pearl Jewelry
Pearl jewelry, renowned for its timeless elegance and natural beauty, requires gentle care to preserve its delicate luster. To care for pearl jewelry, wipe it gently with a soft, damp cloth after each wearing to remove oils and dirt. Avoid exposing pearls to harsh chemicals, perfumes, or cosmetics, as these can damage the delicate surface of the pearls. Store pearl jewelry separately from other jewelry to prevent scratches or damage. If your pearl jewelry becomes dirty or loses its luster, have it professionally cleaned by a jeweler who specializes in pearls to ensure that it is handled with the utmost care.By following these tips and best practices for caring for different types of fine jewelry, you can ensure that your precious pieces remain beautiful and well-maintained for years to come.