Jewellery care tips
Gold jewellery is a precious treasure that, if properly cared for, can last a lifetime and even be passed down from generation to generation. However, regular and appropriate care is essential if they are to retain their brilliance and value. Whether it’s a ring, bracelet, necklace, earrings or pendant, here are a few tips on how to look after your gold jewellery and keep it as shiny as ever. Gold jewellery is a precious object, and it is essential to avoid situations that could damage it.
1. Regular cleaning : an essential step
Over time, gold jewellery can accumulate traces of dirt, body oils or cosmetic products. Regular cleaning is the first step in keeping them in perfect condition.
To clean your gold jewellery, we recommend :
- Soap solution : Mix warm water with a few drops of Marseille soap or washing-up liquid (preferably use natural products). Soak your jewellery for around 10 to 15 minutes.
- Scrub : Use a very soft toothbrush (a hard toothbrush could scratch the gold or gems) to gently clean. Make sure you go around and under the gems.
- Rinsing : After cleaning, rinse the jewellery thoroughly under clear cold or lukewarm water. Be sure to rinse well to remove all traces of soap.
- Drying : Wipe your jewellery with a soft, non-abrasive cloth to avoid scratching.
2. Avoid contact with chemicals
Gold jewellery is sensitive to certain chemicals found in household products, perfumes, lotions and even chlorine in swimming pools. These substances can tarnish or damage your jewellery over time.
To protect your jewellery :
- Remove them before swimming, cleaning, washing up, gardening, etc.
- Apply your beauty products first (perfume, cream, make-up), then put your jewellery on last.
- Do not use any cleaning products other than soap to clean your jewellery.
3. Proper storage
Storing your jewellery is just as important as cleaning it. Improper storage can lead to scratches, knots or even deformation, especially if you have several pieces of gold jewellery.
Storage tips :
- Jewellery box lined with soft fabric : This protects your jewellery from scratches and knocks. Use separate compartments for each piece.
- Velvet bags or soft fabric pouches : If you don’t have a jewellery box, store your individual pieces in small fabric bags.
- Avoid damp environments : Moisture can damage certain precious metals such as white gold, which is often coated with rhodium.
4. Polishing and avoiding daily wear and tear
Polishing is an excellent way of restoring the shine to your jewellery, but it must be done with care to avoid wear and tear over time. It’s also important to take care of your jewellery on a daily basis to limit premature wear.
Tips :
- Polish with a special cloth for gold jewellery. This type of cloth is designed to revive the shine of your jewellery without damaging it.
- Limit the daily wear of delicate jewellery. Fine chains or rings with precious stones are more likely to be damaged if you wear them every day.
5. Professional maintenance : a necessity over time
Even with regular maintenance at home, it is advisable to have your gold jewellery checked by a professional jeweller every year, especially if it is set with precious stones. An expert can spot invisible problems, such as claws holding back stones or fragile solder joints.
Why consult a jeweller ? :
- General inspection : A professional will check the clasps, prongs and other sensitive parts of your jewellery.
- Professional cleaning : Jewellers use special techniques and products to clean thoroughly without damaging the gold or stones.
6. Avoid scratches
Gold is a relatively soft metal and can be easily scratched, especially if your jewellery is made of yellow gold or pure gold (24 carats). It is therefore essential to be careful to avoid rubbing against other hard objects. Avoid wearing your gold jewellery during physical activity. Repeated shocks or contact can damage the surface of the gold.
7. Protect your jewellery from knocks
Gold, although durable, can be deformed or broken by intense impact. Fine jewellery or jewellery set with precious stones is particularly vulnerable.
To avoid damage :
- Remove your gold jewellery before any intense manual activity, such as gardening, cooking or sport.
- Handle your jewellery with care. Store them carefully after each use.
- Remove your jewellery to sleep
8. Restoring your jewellery
If, despite cleaning, your jewellery appears scratched or duller than its original colour, you can restore it to its original brilliance by polishing yellow and rose gold or rhodium-plating white gold. Contact us for a quotation.
Maintaining your gold jewellery requires a little care and attention. By following these simple tips, you can prolong the life and shine of your jewellery. Remember that regular maintenance, proper storage and occasional visits to the jeweller are the keys to preserving the timeless beauty of your gold jewellery. By following these practices, you’ll not only ensure the longevity of your jewellery, but also keep it looking its best for years to come.
If you need any advice, have any doubts or have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us on the contact us page, by email hello@aupiho.com or by telephone on 06 77 26 72 76. We’ll be delighted to help.