Do You Know how to Care for your Jewellery? – Jewellery Care Guide

Do You Know How to Care for Your Jewellery?

Jewellery isn’t just beautiful—it’s often deeply sentimental and can represent major milestones, memories, and moments. Whether it’s a cherished engagement ring, a dainty gold bracelet, or a pair of pearl earrings passed down through generations, looking after your pieces is key to keeping their sparkle (and their story) alive.
If you're not quite sure where to begin, don’t worry—we’ve put together some simple, practical tips to help you care for your jewellery with confidence.

General Jewellery Care Tips

Get it checked regularly

Just like a car needs an MOT, your jewellery needs occasional check-ups too. A professional can spot things like loose stones, worn claws, or weakened hinges before they become a bigger issue. At SFFJ, we’re happy to check any ring we’ve made—free of charge—for the first three years.

If in doubt, take it off

Planning to lift weights, garden, clean, or do anything hands-on? Pop your jewellery off and put it somewhere safe. It’s not worth the risk of scratching or damaging it.

Keep it away from chemicals

Swimming, washing up, or cleaning? Remove your jewellery first. Chemicals in water and cleaning products can damage both stones and metals—especially delicate ones like opals and pearls.

Lotions and perfumes go on first

Apply moisturisers, perfumes, or hair products before putting on your jewellery. This helps prevent build-up that can dull its shine.

Store it separately

Gems and metals can scratch each other, so avoid a tangled mess in your jewellery box. Fasten chains before storing, and keep pieces in separate pouches or compartments—preferably in a soft-lined box.

Avoid heat, light, and damp

These can fade stones and weaken materials over time. A cool, dry spot away from direct sunlight is ideal.

Sleep without it

Necklaces, rings, earrings and bracelets can all snag or bend while you sleep. It’s best to take them off—even if we’re all guilty of occasionally forgetting!

How to Clean Your Jewellery at Home

Diamond Cleaning

• Diamonds might be the hardest gemstone, but they’re not invincible. Dirt, oil, and grime can build up quickly and dull their sparkle and brilliance.
• Mix warm (not hot!) water with a few drops of washing-up liquid.
• Use a soft toothbrush (a baby one works well) to gently clean around the setting.
• Air dry or use a lint-free cloth.
• Avoid bleach, abrasive cleaners, or harsh chemicals—they’ll damage the metal around the stone.
• Store diamonds separately, ideally in a fabric pouch or plastic bag, to avoid scratches.

Gemstone Cleaning

• Gemstones vary hugely in their properties, so make sure you know what you’re cleaning.
• Stick to warm water and mild soap unless you’re sure your stone can handle more.
• Avoid boiling water or steam, especially for stones like emeralds (which are often oiled or filled) and other heat-sensitive gems.
• Treated stones can sometimes react to cleaning products—when in doubt, ask!
• Malachite, turquoise and similar stones prefer cool water.
• Use a soft toothbrush and take your time.

Caring for Organic Gems

• Pearls, opals, and amber need a gentler touch—they’re softer, more porous, and can be damaged by water and chemicals.
• Never soak them or use ultrasonic cleaners.
• Use a soft, damp cloth to gently wipe each piece.
• Avoid pulling strung gems through cloths as it can stretch or weaken the string.
• Dry with a lint-free cloth, paying special attention around drill holes and knots to prevent moisture build-up.

Cleaning Gold Jewellery

• Even plain gold jewellery can collect grime over time—but gold is soft, so be gentle.
• Soak in warm water with a little washing-up liquid for a few minutes.
• Clean gently with a soft toothbrush.
• Pay attention to clasps, settings and crevices.
• Rinse thoroughly and dry with a lint-free cloth.
• If your gold piece includes gemstones, refer to the specific care advice for those stones.

When in Doubt, Ask

If you're unsure about cleaning a particular piece, or feel like it needs a little extra TLC, we’re always here to help. Whether it’s a professional clean, a repair, or just a bit of advice—get in touch and we’ll happily take a look.
After all, jewellery isn’t just something you wear—it’s part of your story. Let’s make sure it lasts.