Caring for your jewellery

With the right care, your jewellery can stay beautiful for a lifetime — and beyond. Here's our guide to keeping different metals and stones looking their best.

General tips

  • Put jewellery on after applying perfume, lotion and hairspray, not before.
  • Remove jewellery before swimming, showering, exercising or cleaning.
  • Store pieces separately to avoid scratching, ideally in a lined box or soft pouch.
  • Have clasps, prongs and settings checked periodically to catch wear before it becomes a problem.

Metals

Gold
Gold is durable but can still scratch or dull over time. Clean gently with warm water, a mild soap and a soft-bristled brush, then dry with a lint-free cloth. Avoid chlorine and harsh chemicals, which can weaken the metal, especially in lower-karat and gold-filled pieces.

Silver
Silver naturally tarnishes with exposure to air and moisture. A dedicated silver polishing cloth is the easiest way to restore its shine; for more detailed pieces, a gentle silver dip can help, but should be used sparingly. Storing silver in an airtight bag or box slows tarnishing.

Platinum
One of the most hard-wearing metals, platinum resists tarnish beautifully but can develop a soft "patina" with wear. Warm soapy water and a soft cloth will keep it clean; a jeweller can restore its original polish if you prefer a brighter finish.

Plated and vermeil
Plated pieces have a thin layer of precious metal over a base metal, so they need gentler handling. Avoid soaking, rubbing or harsh cleaners, which can wear the plating thin. Wipe with a soft, dry cloth after wearing.

Stones

Diamonds
Diamonds are the hardest natural material, but they still attract oils and grime that dull their sparkle. Soak in warm water with a little washing-up liquid, then gently brush and rinse.

Precious gemstones (sapphires, rubies, emeralds)
Sapphires and rubies are hard and generally low-maintenance. Emeralds are more delicate and often treated with oils to enhance clarity, so avoid soaking, ultrasonic cleaners and steam — a soft, dry cloth is safest.

Pearls and opals
These are soft, porous stones that need the gentlest care of all. Avoid water, perfume and chemicals where possible, and simply wipe with a soft cloth after wearing. Store separately, as they can scratch easily against harder stones.

Semi-precious and porous stones (turquoise, opal, amber, coral)
These stones can absorb liquids and chemicals, so never soak them. A soft, dry cloth after each wear is the best way to keep them looking their best.

We're happy to help

Not sure how to care for a particular piece, or want it looking its absolute best? Pop it in to the shop and we'll clean it for you. Simply drop it off with us — no appointment necessary — and we'll take care of the rest.