How to Care for Fine Jewellery at Home

Fine jewellery is made to be worn, but regular wear exposes it to skin oils, cosmetics, dust, impact, and friction. Thoughtful care begins with knowing when to wear a piece, how to store it, and when professional inspection is more appropriate than cleaning at home.

Put jewellery on last

Apply perfume, lotion, makeup, and hairspray before putting on jewellery. Allow products to dry first. This reduces residue reaching gemstones, settings, chains, and polished metal.

Remove it for demanding activities

Take fine jewellery off before exercise, swimming, gardening, heavy cleaning, moving furniture, using tools, or activities placing repeated pressure on rings and bracelets.

Gold can scratch or deform, while even durable gemstones may chip after an unfortunate impact.

Store pieces separately

Diamonds and harder gemstones can scratch softer materials, while chains may tangle around rings and clasps. Store pieces individually in soft pouches, lined compartments, or original boxes. Fasten chains and lay them flat where possible.

Check before cleaning

There is no universal cleaning method for every gemstone. Consider gemstone type, known treatments, glued components, loose settings, pearls, enamel, and intentionally textured finishes.

If a stone moves, a clasp fails, or a component looks bent, stop wearing the piece and arrange an inspection.

A conservative method

For many uncomplicated gold, diamond, and sapphire pieces, lukewarm water, a small amount of mild soap, and a very soft brush may be suitable. Use light pressure, rinse carefully, and dry with a soft lint-free cloth. Protect the sink opening and never clean jewellery over an uncovered drain.

Warm soapy water is recognised by GIA as safe for sapphire, but filled, dyed, treated, or otherwise sensitive materials may need different care. When treatment is uncertain, request advice first.

Be cautious with machines

Ultrasonic and steam cleaning are not universally safe. Vibration, heat, treatments, smaller stones, soldered areas, and existing weaknesses must all be considered.

Arrange inspections

Frequently worn rings, bracelets, and gemstone settings benefit from professional inspection. This may reveal loose stones, worn prongs, weakened links, or damaged clasps before a small issue becomes a larger repair.

For advice about a particular Ceylon Artisans piece, contact the team with its product name, gemstone details, and photographs where needed. Learn more about Ceylon Artisans and its approach to making.

Editorial source

• GIA Sapphire Care and Cleaning Guide