The Complete Guide to Caring for your Jewellery and Gemstones
- Eoghan McGuinness
- Apr 9
- 3 min read
How to Care for Your Precious Metal Jewellery and Gemstones: A Complete Guide
Jewellery isn’t just about sparkle — it often carries sentimental value and is an investment in style and elegance. Whether it’s a gold necklace gifted on a special occasion, a silver ring passed down through generations, or a dazzling gemstone bracelet, proper care is essential to maintain the beauty and longevity of your pieces.
In this guide, we’ll cover simple yet effective ways to care for your precious metal jewellery and gemstones so they stay brilliant for years to come.
1. Store It Right
Jewellery can get scratched, tangled, or tarnished if not stored properly.
Here’s how to avoid that:
Separate and protect: Store each piece individually in a soft pouch or Our fabric-lined jewellery box which is coated with a tarnish inhibitor. Perfect for storing your Sterling Silver jewellery to help prevent tarnishing.
Avoid moisture: Precious metals like silver can tarnish when exposed to humidity. Store jewellery in a dry, cool place. Consider using anti-tarnish strips or silica gel packets in your storage space.
Organize smartly: Use divided compartments for different types of jewellery (rings, necklaces, bracelets) to avoid tangling and damage.

2. Know Your Metals
Different metals need different care routines:
Gold is less reactive but can still scratch. Clean with mild soap and warm water using a soft brush.
Silver tarnishes easily. Polish it gently with a silver polishing cloth or use a cleaner specifically formulated for silver.
Platinum is durable, but like all metals, it benefits from occasional professional polishing to maintain its luster.
Avoid using abrasive materials or household cleaners — these can dull finishes or cause long-term damage.
3. Treat Gemstones with Care
Gemstones may look tough, but many are surprisingly delicate:
Diamonds are hard but can still chip if hit at the wrong angle.
Softer stones like opals, pearls, and turquoise are vulnerable to scratches, chemicals, and heat.
Here’s how to protect your gems:
Clean with a soft brush and mild soapy water unless otherwise instructed.
Avoid ultrasonic cleaners unless you're sure the stone can handle it.
Remove gemstone jewellery before activities like swimming, gardening, or exercising.

4. Mind the Chemicals
Everyday products like lotion, perfume, hairspray, and cleaning agents can damage both metals and gemstones. To avoid buildup or tarnish:
Put on your jewellery after applying cosmetics and perfume.
Take it off before cleaning, swimming, or showering.
Use gloves if working with harsh chemicals or detergents.
A good rule of thumb is, Jewellery should be the last thing you put on and the first thing you take off.
5. Regular Checkups Matter
Even the most well-cared-for piece needs a little TLC now and then:
Inspect clasps, prongs, and settings regularly for signs of wear or looseness.
Take your jewelry to a professional jeweller for annual cleanings and checkups.
If you notice a loose stone or damaged setting, don’t wait — secure repairs can save your jewellery from more serious issues (or loss).
Final Thoughts
Caring for your jewellery isn’t complicated — it’s just about being mindful. A little extra effort in how you store, clean, and wear your jewellery can preserve its shine, structure, and sentimentality.
So take the time to care for your treasures. Your future self will thank you :-)
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