Jewelry Care

Jewelry is meant to be worn and the more you wear it the more it needs to be cared for. With the right attention, each piece can maintain its beauty over time and continue to be worn for years to come.

 

General Care

• Remove jewelry before showering, swimming, or exercising
• Avoid direct contact with perfumes, lotions, and chemicals such as household cleaners, chlorine, sunscreen, and hairspray
• Put jewelry on last when getting ready, and remove it first at the end of the day
• Wipe gently with a soft cloth after wear to remove oils and residue

 

Cleaning

For occasional deeper cleaning, most metal jewelry can be gently washed using lukewarm water and a mild soap, such as hand soap or a gentle dish soap.

• Rinse thoroughly and dry completely
• Use a soft cloth to pat dry — avoid air drying to prevent water spots
• A soft-bristled toothbrush may be used carefully for hard-to-reach areas

This method should be used sparingly, especially for vintage pieces.

For gemstones and pearls:

• Avoid soaking
• Clean gently with a soft, damp cloth instead
• Do not submerge pearl strands

 

Materials & Finishes

Gold-tone & plated jewelry

Avoid moisture and friction, as plating can wear over time. Store separately to minimize contact with other pieces.

Do not use polishing cloths on plated jewelry, as they can remove the plated finish and alter the color.

Sterling silver (925)

Silver naturally oxidizes, which appears as tarnish or a darkened surface. To maintain shine, polish gently with a soft cloth or silver cleaning cloth.

For deeper tarnish, occasional at-home methods such as a baking soda solution may be used with care.

Store in a dry, enclosed space when not in use.

Gemstones & pearls

Avoid prolonged exposure to water, heat, and chemicals. Clean gently with a soft, damp cloth — never soak.

These materials are more delicate and benefit from minimal handling during cleaning.

Vintage pieces

Vintage jewelry may show signs of age and should be handled with care. These pieces are often more delicate due to age and benefit from mindful wear and storage.

Gold-filled & vermeil

Gold-filled and vermeil pieces have a thicker layer of gold than standard plating, offering greater durability while still requiring mindful care.

To maintain their finish, limit exposure to moisture, chemicals, and friction, which can gradually wear the surface over time.

Clean gently and infrequently, and store separately to help preserve their color and longevity.

 

Storage

• Store jewelry in a dry place, away from humidity
• Keep pieces separated to prevent scratching or tangling
• Use soft pouches or lined compartments when possible

 

A Note

Each piece carries its own history. Thoughtful care helps preserve not only its condition, but its story.