Caring for jewellery at home: cleaning, storing, wearing

Diamonds are the hardest stones yet still attract oil; gold is durable yet still scratches. The right care keeps jewellery looking new.

On last, off first

• Put jewellery on after make-up, perfume and lotion.
• Take it off before sea swimming, chlorinated pools, sport, cleaning with chemicals and cooking.
• Take it off to sleep so prongs do not snag on bedding.

Weekly cleaning at home

1. Mix warm water with a few drops of mild washing-up liquid.
2. Soak for 15 to 20 minutes.
3. Brush gently with a soft brush, especially under the stone where oil collects.
4. Rinse in clean water with the sink plug in.
5. Pat dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.

Avoid: toothpaste, baking soda, bleach and chlorine. Do not put coloured stones such as aquamarine, or treated stones, in a home ultrasonic cleaner.

Storage

• One compartment or soft pouch per piece. Diamonds scratch other diamonds and every metal.
• Close necklace clasps before storing to prevent tangles.
• Keep somewhere dry, coloured stones out of direct sun.

Monthly self-check

• Shake the piece gently near your ear: a rattle means a loose stone.
• Look at the prongs: thin, bent or snagging prongs need tightening.
• Check necklace clasps and earring backs.

If anything seems wrong, stop wearing it and bring it in.

Leave it to us

Ultrasonic cleaning, polishing, prong tightening and rhodium re-plating of white gold every 12 months are free for life at Kim Bảo Minh Châu. Weight before and after each service is logged. See Lifetime warranty.