Tips to Make your Jewels Last Long
Jewellery is a big investment we all make in our lifetime. Whether it’s a necklace, an engagement ring or earrings, everybody owns some kind of precious jewels and metal be it gold, silver or platinum. For many people, a great sentimental value is attached to these pieces. Even a decade or two later, they still want their jewels to look as if they were just bought from a store. Well, for this reason, it’s important to take care of your jewellery. No doubt, it should be handled with care and treated well to ensure it can be passed down generations.
When you pursue a jewellery design and management programme with Vogue, you don’t just the art related to designing and manufacturing jewellery. You also learn how to care for jewellery to ensure it lasts long.
How to Care for Your Jewellery?
If you’re having a hard time making sure your jewels retain its original sheen and lustre, we have some expert tips that ensure every piece is given utmost care and attention. Whether it’s a new piece or an heirloom, here’s how you can keep your jewellery looking it’s absolute best:
Storing your Jewellery
If you want your jewellery to look good for years, you need to start by storing it properly. Store pieces separately. Don’t put everything in one box. This way, there are chances of it getting entangled too. A fabric lined jewellery box is recommended. You can even go in for individual jewellery boxes if you have enough space. Usually, jewellers only give nice and compact boxes when you purchase. Keep them in those. It should be kept in a place that is moisture-free and away from sunlight. You can even use a box with compartments. Storing too many pieces together can result in damage and scratches. In the case of a heavy diamond necklace, it’s better to store it in a plastic box lined with a handkerchief. Keep authenticity reports separately. Storing it well will make it last longer.
Regular, Gentle Cleaning
To maintain the sparkle and shine of your jewellery, regular cleaning is imperative. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or cloth to remove any kind of loose dirt or dust. Next, create your own cleaning solution. Just a solution of warm water and mild soap is enough. Abrasive and strong chemicals could completely damage the lustre of the gemstone or diamond. Regular household cleaners are a complete no-no. If you’re not sure about creating your own solution, simply buy a jewellery cleaner online. For pieces like earrings, you can even boil them in hot water. This will help remove all the dirt and grime. The shine will also improve over time.
Get into the habit of developing a cleaning routine for your jewels at least once a month. A quick wipe for regular-wear is a must.
Caring for Gold Jewellery
In India, women particularly tend to wear some kind of gold jewellery on a daily basis. Despite best care it is prone to tarnishing due to exposure to air, moisture and oil from your skin. It can also be affected by chlorine and harsh chemicals. Don’t wear your jewellery to swimming pools, showers and spas. Chlorinated water can cause colour changes and structural damage to your jewellery. Also, keep your jewellery away from creams, lotions and perfumes. It can cause discolouration. To clean gold jewellery, use a simple solution made from warm water, and mild soap or baby shampoo. If the stains are tougher, soak them for a few minutes and then wash under running water. After washing the jewellery, let it dry on a soft cloth for a few hours. Storing it damp or wet can lead to further damage. In case the Rhodium plating has worn off, you can get it done at your jeweller for a nominal fee.
Caring for Sterling Silver Jewellery
Just like gold jewellery, silver jewellery also tarnishes over time. Use a soft lint-free cloth to wipe and buff the metal. Silver jewellery tends to get black with time. Don’t worry, it’s completely normal and is a sign that the metal is genuine silver and not duplicate. If it doesn’t go black, it’s a sign of worry. To restore the shine of your silver pieces, there are several silver liquid polishes available in the market or online. They work wonders in restoring the shine. At no cost you should be using toothpaste to clean your jewellery. Contrary to popular belief, it worsens the piece rather than cleaning it. The chemicals in toothpaste are too abrasive.
Conclusion
The way you care and store your jewellery plays an important role in its longevity. Jewellery boxes and pouches are the best way to store your jewels. If certain pieces can’t be cleaned at home, we recommend you give it to the jeweller from whom you purchased it. They will restore it to its original condition but at an extra cost.
There are several tools and procedures used in the jewellery industry. If you’re looking for a jewellery design course in Bangalore, Vogue Institute of Art & Design has an array of options for you. Explore here https://www.voguefashioninstitute.com/jewellery-design-courses/.
