How to Care for Fine Jewellery

Diamond is exceptionally hard, but that doesn't mean every diamond-set piece should automatically go into an ultrasonic cleaner.

Settings can become worn or loose.

Older jewellery may be fragile.

And some gemstones and treatments require completely different cleaning methods.

Emeralds, opals, pearls and certain treated stones, for example, need more considered care than a straightforward diamond solitaire might.

If you don't know exactly what is in a piece, don't experiment.

Ask us.

For suitable pieces, gentle cleaning with warm water, mild soap and a very soft brush can remove everyday oils and dirt.

But don't assume this method is appropriate for every gemstone or antique piece.

Avoid abrasive household cleaners and toothpaste.

Be particularly careful with chlorine and harsh chemicals, which can affect jewellery metals and finishes.

And please don't clean jewellery over an open drain.

We would much rather not have that conversation.

Gardening.

Heavy gym work.

DIY.

Cleaning with harsh chemicals.

Activities where a ring is likely to take repeated knocks.

Jewellery doesn't need to accompany you into every battle.

Keep pieces separated where possible.

Diamonds can scratch other gemstones — and other diamonds.

Chains can tangle.

Pearls and softer stones deserve protection from harder pieces.

A soft-lined box with individual compartments is far better than throwing everything into one jewellery dish.

Creams, oils, soap and cosmetics can accumulate behind stones and reduce their sparkle.

Put jewellery on after lotions, cosmetics and fragrances where practical.

And if your diamond suddenly seems to have "stopped sparkling", it may simply need a proper clean.

Stop.

Don't scrub harder.

Don't reach for a stronger chemical.

Don't trust a random cleaning hack on the internet.

Bring it to us.

We can identify what we're dealing with, check the setting and recommend a cleaning method appropriate to the actual piece.