LWP TIPS: JEWELRY CARE

by Yani Alegre

 

Regular cleaning and upkeep of your jewelry will not only improve overall appearance but it will also help maintain its quality and value. Here are some simple jewelry care tips you can do at home to preserve your jewelry.


STORAGE

Velvet jewelry boxes are pretty and all, but did you know that velvet particles can stick to stones like diamonds and can make them blurry? Please avoid long-term storage in velvet lined boxes as the material can affect the shine and sparkle of stones and gold. You can store your jewelry in its pouch and place it inside a sturdy box, like an acrylic plastic or glass jewelry box. 


Keep away from heat and heavy objects that can fall on top of your jewelry. Many natural gemstones like Aquamarine, Tourmaline, Kunzite and Quartz can become discolored over time especially when exposed to heat. These gems should be consciously stored away from hot temperatures, sunlight and avoid exposure to UV cleaners.


JEWELRY CLEANING


*Not applicable to Opals, Rose Quartz, Turquoise and Pearls. For Opal and Rose Quartz, a quick rinsing under running water would do. For Pearls, a quick wipe down with a dry, soft cloth after every use would be enough.

1. Mix lukewarm water with soft soap.

2. Soak your jewelry in the solution for 20 - 30 minutes.


3. Carefully get the jewelry from the container. (LWP Note: I love this part!!) You’ll see the dirt particles all suspended in the water.

4. Rinse the jewelry under running water with a container underneath to make sure the jewelry won’t fall into the drain.

5. Lightly brush the jewelry with a soft, thin bristled toothbrush to loosen remaining dirt.

6. Rinse again under running water.

7. Air dry on a clean surface.


TIPS

  • Last thing on, First thing off. Make sure your jewelry is the last thing you put on when dressing up and the first thing you take off when undressing.

  • Remove jewelry when applying lotion, perfume, alcohol, hairspray, and makeup.

  • Remove jewelry when doing high level physical activities.

  • Remove jewelry when using cleaning chemicals and fluids. Do not wear your jewelry when washing dishes or doing laundry. This can expose your jewelry to harsh chemicals.

  • Store jewelry in a sturdy box (one that is not lined with cloth or velvet).

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