Jewelry care: how to keep the shine for years
Quality jewelry can last generations — with proper care. Most damage isn't due to age, but to everyday small things that are easy to avoid. Here's everything you need to know.
Golden rule: jewelry goes on last, comes off first
Do your makeup, perfume, hair — only then put on jewelry. When undressing, take it off first. This protects it from cosmetic chemicals, the main cause of a dull look.
Daily habits
- Take off before: showering, swimming (chlorine!), cleaning with household products, gardening, exercise
- Avoid: contact with perfumes, creams, hairspray, disinfectants
- Mind impacts: gemstones are hard but brittle — a strong knock can chip an edge
Cleaning at home (by material)
| Material / stone | Safe cleaning |
|---|---|
| Gold, platinum | Lukewarm water + a drop of mild soap, soft brush, dry |
| Diamond | Same; diamonds tolerate more, shine returns quickly |
| Emerald | Only wipe with a soft cloth; do NOT soak (oiling!) |
| Pearls, opal | Only a soft damp cloth; very delicate |
| Silver | Special silver cloth against oxidation |
Never use toothpaste, baking soda or rough cloths — they scratch the surface and metal.
Ultrasonic cleaners — be careful
Home ultrasonic cleaners are great for diamonds and hard gold, but dangerous for:
- emeralds, opals, pearls (delicate)
- stones with cracks (may crack)
- loosely set stones (may come loose)
When in doubt, don't risk it — or take it to a jeweler.
Storage
- Each piece separately (diamonds scratch other stones and gold)
- A soft pouch or a velvet-lined box
- Clasp necklaces so they don't tangle
- A dry space (humidity speeds up silver oxidation)
When to see a jeweler
Once every 1–2 years we recommend a professional check:
- checking that stones sit well in their settings
- professional cleaning and polishing
- re-rhodium plating of white gold (if the shine has faded)
Specifically: white gold
White gold has a rhodium layer that wears over time. When you notice a slightly warmer tone, it's time for re-plating — a quick, inexpensive service that restores that cool shine.
What's next?
For our pieces we offer care and refreshing. If you're unsure how to care for a particular piece, ask — we advise based on the material.
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Author: Kraguljevich Jewelry · Buyer's guide