Tips & Tricks
How To Clean Your Jewelry Like A Pro... but if you're in the neighborhood, it's ALWAYS free to check and clean!
GENERAL CARE
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Remove rings when washing your hands, applying beauty products, cleaning the house, yardwork, or applying lotions to keep the settings (especially under stones) grime-free.
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Don’t wear jewelry while swimming — chlorine and salt water can dull & damage it.
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Wipe pearls with a soft cloth after each wear to remove body oils and perfume that can yellow them.
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Don't let silver sit in your jewelry box — wear it! It becomes shinier the more it's worn (the friction slows down tarnishing). When you’re not wearing it, store pieces with an anti-tarnish material.
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Get valuable jewelry checked regularly (always free with us) to make sure the stones are in good shape, settings are secure, and the metal is wearing normally.
SILVER
Silver is the purest "white" metal but requires a little extra care because it tarnishes. When possible keep your silver out of direct light and moisture. Additionally wear your silver. The more you wear it the less it will tarnish!
First thing to keep in mind is if there are any stones or materials other than silver in your jewelry that could be harmed during the cleaning process e.g. pearls.
In mild situations a toothbrush and non scented dish soap should do the trick but in heavy-duty cases a silver cleaner, warm rinse and a soft polishing cloth are the best solution. Never use paper towels as they will scratch your silver!
GOLD
Many people use ammonia to clean their floors, but it also works well to clean diamonds and many RESILIENT stones without damaging them. Mix 1/4 cup of ammonia, a degreaser such as unscented dish soap and one full cup of warm water in a jar or a bowl.
Place your jewelry into the jar or bowl and allow them to sit for about 15 minutes. After your jewelry soaks, take a soft-bristled toothbrush and gently scrub the jewelry to remove any grime that remains.
Make sure to target the setting and crevices on the piece because grime and dirt often stick in these areas. Rinse the piece with water, and use a soft polishing cloth to dry it thoroughly.
GEMSTONES
Every stones is different. Either they are hard yet brittle or even organic and absorb their surrounding, gemstones are... picky. Best bet, stop in for a free cleaning or give us a call for the best way to clean your stones!
COSTUME JEWELRY
Just like gemstones, costume jewelry can have many reactions depending on its chemical makeup. Safest option is warm water and mild detergent using an old toothbrush. Be mindful not to soak most costume pieces with "gems" because often they are only set with an adhesive. If you have questions or concerns stop bye and we'd be happy to help you.