All jewellery needs a little care from time to time. Some pieces, particularly those worn daily, will naturally require more attention than others.

In this guide, we share simple, effective ways to clean your jewellery, how to store it properly, and what to look out for to help prevent damage. With the right care, your pieces will retain their beauty and continue to be enjoyed for years to come.

The Cleaning Process

Regular cleaning is one of the easiest ways to maintain your jewellery’s brilliance. Like anything well-loved, a little upkeep goes a long way.

A simple and effective method is to use lukewarm water with a small amount of washing-up liquid and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Gently brush the piece, paying particular attention to settings where dirt can build up. This will help restore its natural sparkle without causing damage.

For diamond engagement rings, a specialist cleaner such as the Diamond Dazzle Stik can be particularly effective. Twist the base until the solution appears on the brush, lightly dampen your ring and gently clean using the bristles. Rinse with cool water and dry thoroughly.

Drying Your Jewellery

Drying your jewellery properly is just as important as cleaning it. A soft, lint-free cloth is ideal, especially for more delicate pieces.

Alternatively, a hairdryer on a low heat setting can be used with care. Ensuring your jewellery is completely dry will help prevent water marks forming on both the metal and gemstones.

Storing Your Jewellery

It can be tempting to leave jewellery on a dressing table at the end of the day, but proper storage helps to prevent scratches, tangling and unnecessary wear.

Where possible, store each piece separately in a soft pouch or lined jewellery box. The original box your jewellery came in is often ideal, but a well-organised jewellery box is a worthwhile investment for keeping everything protected.

Certain gemstones, such as pearls and opals, can draw in moisture from the air, so they should always be stored in a cool, dry environment.

Avoiding Sunlight and Heat

Prolonged exposure to light and heat can affect some gemstones over time.

Opals may darken, while stones such as amethyst and topaz can fade if left in direct sunlight. For this reason, jewellery should not be stored on windowsills or anywhere exposed to strong, consistent light.

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Care & Repair

Checking Your Claws

If your jewellery features gemstones, particularly larger stones, it is important to check the claws regularly.

Over time, everyday wear can cause claws to lift slightly, which may loosen the stone. A simple way to check is to gently run your finger over the setting. If it feels smooth, the claws are likely secure. If you notice any roughness or raised edges, it is worth having the piece checked by a jeweller.

For softer gemstones, such as emeralds, it is equally important that claws are not too tight, as excess pressure can cause damage.

Jewellery Cleaning Video | WATCH NOW

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Caring for your jewellery does not need to be complicated. With a few simple habits, you can protect your pieces and keep them looking as beautiful as the day you first wore them.

At Browns Family Jewellers, we believe every piece tells a story, and with the right care, it can be passed down and treasured for generations