Tips & Tricks on Caring for Your Jewelry

Whether it’s an heirloom piece or a brand-new bauble, caring for your jewelry is an absolute must. From cleaning tricks to storage tips, we’ve rounded up everything you need to keep your sparkle game strong.

Sterling Silver
Clean silver with a soft cotton cloth, but keep in mind that it can scratch if you aren’t careful! A soft bristle brush is also great, but choose wisely…we recommend a baby’s toothbrush or a horsehair silver brush for a delicate and scratch-free finish. Last but not least, sterling silver needs to be cleaned thoroughly as dirt left over from previous cleanings can scratch the surface.

Cubic Zirconia
We recommend a cotton or flannel cloth to keep cubic zirconia pieces clean. To clean, use straight, back and forth strokes, and polish your jewelry carefully. Circular motions will scratch the surface of your piece and leave it flawed. If you’re looking for a little more, use a jewelry cleaning solution (we love this liquid jewelry cleanser!), or simply grab some warm water and mild soap. Use a soft cosmetic applicator to reach all crevices. To store, keep pieces in a sealable plastic bag or lined jewelry box so they’re away from outside air.

Pearls
Because they’re so soft and delicate, pearls need special attention. Never store them in a jewelry box next to other jewelry because they can be damaged very easily. Instead, opt for a fabric-lined case or pouch. Your skins acid can also damage pearls, so it is recommended to wipe down your pieces after each wear with a wet or dry soft cloth (a drop of olive oil works too!). Just remember: never use any abrasive materials to clean your pearls.

Rhodium Plated Silver
Clean plated pieces with warm water and a mild liquid soap and rinse dry with a soft jewelry polishing cloth to avoid residue from water. Never use chemicals on these items or place in a cleaner.

Gold
As you probably know, gold never tarnishes, but it can be dirtied by the oils in your skin or cosmetics. To clean, use a soft toothbrush with mild detergent and a soft cloth. We also recommend keeping your gold jewelry safe and sound when you’re on-the-go with a convenient jewelry wallet.

Gold Plating
Wash gold plated pieces in lukewarm soapy water and a few drops of non-filmy dish soap (make sure it’s not antibacterial). Use a soft toothbrush to get into those hard-to-reach places, and rinse dry immediately after using with a soft polishing cloth.

Gemstones
While they’re as hard as a rock, gemstones can be damaged from careless handling. Gems can scratch, so never throw pieces directly in a jewelry box. Crystalline gemstones should be soaked in water with a little dish soap and organic gems should only be wiped with a moist cloth. If necessary, use a soft toothbrush to get to those hard-to-reach places then rinse the soap off and pat dry with a lint free cloth. It’s also crucial to be careful while using chemicals in many hair and beauty products as they can damage the stones over time.

Diamonds
Lotions and hair products can leave a film on precious diamonds that’ll prevent them from shining bright. This film can block light and give your sparkler a dull and lifeless appearance. To clean, opt for our trusty jewelry cleaner or soak your diamond in a warm solution of mild detergent and water and use a soft brush if necessary. Dry with a lint-free cloth and you’re set.

Any go-to cleaning tips you’d love to share? Sound off in the comment section below!