JEWELRY CARE 101

 

Welcome to a comprehensive guide on how to care for and clean your precious jewelry! In this guide, I'll cover everything you need to know to keep your gold, silver, platinum, and precious stones looking their best no matter what season it is.

Let's dive in!

Part 1: Understanding Your Jewelry

Before you begin cleaning your jewelry, it's important to understand the materials it's made of. Different metals and stones require specific care. Take note of any metal stamps or gemstone identification to determine the appropriate cleaning methods. 

If it’s an Anna Kikue piece, you can always rest assured that it’s solid gold or sterling silver–designed with sustainability and longevity in mind, and meant to last for generations. No plating here.

Why Tarnish Can Happen

Sterling silver jewelry tarnishes due to a chemical reaction between the silver and sulfur-containing substances in the air, such as hydrogen sulfide. This reaction forms a thin layer of silver sulfide on the surface, resulting in tarnish. Factors like humidity, exposure to certain chemicals, and individual body chemistry can on occasion accelerate the tarnishing process.

Part 2: General Care and Storage

Handle your jewelry with care and follow these tips for regular maintenance and storage:

• Gently wipe away dirt and oils regularly using a soft cloth or a jewelry polishing cloth.
• Consider using a mild soap and water solution for a deeper clean, followed by thorough drying.
• If your collection is growing, consider investing in an at-home ultrasonic cleaner for regular use (but be mindful of any gems that shouldn't be used in them).
• Avoid using abrasive materials or harsh chemicals that can damage the jewelry.
• Store your jewelry in a cool, dry place, preferably in an airtight container or a zip-lock bag.
• Minimize exposure to humidity, chemicals (such as perfume or lotions), as they can accelerate tarnishing.

Part 3: Gold, Silver, and Platinum Jewelry Care

To properly clean and maintain gold, silver, and platinum jewelry, follow these techniques:

• Create a mixture of warm water and mild dish soap.
• Gently scrub the jewelry using a soft-bristled toothbrush.
• Rinse with warm water and pat dry with a soft cloth.

For tough tarnish on silver jewelry, you can also try the following DIY methods:

Method 1: Dish Soap Soak

• Boil water and pour it into a bowl.
• Add a dash of Dawn dish soap (not organic) and mix lightly.
• Let the jewelry soak in the soapy water until it cools (approximately 10 minutes).
• Gently scrub the jewelry with a soft-bristle toothbrush, then rinse and dry.

Method 2: Baking Soda and Aluminum Foil*

• Line a dish or bowl with aluminum foil, shiny side up.
• Place tarnished silver jewelry on the foil.
• Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the jewelry.
• Pour boiling water over the jewelry, fully submerging it.
• Allow the jewelry to sit for a few minutes to enable a chemical reaction.
• Gently remove the jewelry from the solution, rinse thoroughly with water, and dry.

*For chains or well loved pieces only–not those with a mirror shine or flat surfaces.*

Part 4: Precious Gemstone Care

To clean and care for precious gemstones such as diamonds, emeralds, rubies, and sapphires, try these techniques:

• Create a mixture of warm water and mild dish soap.
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently clean the gemstones.
• Rinse with warm water and pat dry with a soft cloth.

Part 5: Delicate Gemstone Care

To clean and care for pearls and delicate gemstones like opal, onyx, citrine, and others, try these techniques:

• Water and other liquids should not be used on porous gemstones such as opal or pearls. Instead, wipe them down with a soft cloth after each wear.
• Only use a moist towel to clean as needed. If your pearls are noticeably stained, make a solution of lukewarm water and mild dish soap, dip a delicate cleaning cloth in it, and wipe the pearls with it.
• For non-porous gemstones like citrine, use warm water and mild soap to clean them. Dry thoroughly with a soft cloth.
• Avoid using steam or ultrasonic cleaners, as some stones, like citrine or pearls, should not be subjected to heat and/or vibration.

Part 6: Polishing and Buffing Techniques

Restore the shine and luster of your jewelry with these techniques:

• Utilize over-the-counter jewelry cleaners (e.g., Connoisseurs) and closely following the instructions provided by the manufacturer.
• Use a silver polishing cloth or a mild silver cleaner for tarnished silver pieces.
• For gold and platinum jewelry, mix warm water with a few drops of dish soap, and use a soft cloth to polish.
• Avoid using abrasive materials or harsh chemicals that can damage the jewelry.

Buy a Pro-Polish Polishing Pad from Anna Kikue with your next order.

Part 7: Professional Cleaning

If your jewelry requires specialized attention or a professional touch, consider these options:

• Visit a local jewelry store or send your jewelry to a professional jeweler for a cleaning bath using industrial-grade cleaning solutions.
• For Anna Kikue pieces, contact hi@annakikue.com to inquire about sending your piece in for cleaning.

Part 8: Insurance

Protect your valuable jewelry with proper insurance coverage:

• Contact your insurance provider to inquire about adding your jewelry to your renter's or homeowner's insurance.
• Explore third-party insurance providers, like Jewelers Mutual, for comprehensive coverage.

Part 9: Final Thoughts and Expert Advice

Remember that proper care and regular maintenance are essential for preserving the beauty and longevity of your precious jewelry–and being a conscientious consumer. When in doubt, reach out or consult another professional jeweler for personalized advice on cleaning and caring for your specific pieces.

I hope this comprehensive guide has empowered you with the knowledge and tools to clean and care for your precious jewelry effectively. Share your sparkling success stories with me and keep your jewelry shining bright!