jewellery courses

Exposure to chemicals can damage or discolor precious metals like gold, silver and platinum and may harm some colored gems. Even everyday substances like hairspray, lotion, perfume or other cosmetics can contain chemicals that will permanently damage the surface of your pearls and other delicate or porous gems. Fine jewelry should be removed before diving into a chlorinated swimming pool or before using household cleaners. Many of these cleaners contain ammonia, which can be too harsh for delicate gems or vintage jewelry. Chlorine bleach, another common household solvent, can pit or damage gold alloys.

THE SAFEST AND THE EASIEST CLEANING METHODS

Most colored gems can be cleaned with warm water, mild dish soap (no chemicals) and a soft brush. A pulsed-water dental cleaning appliance and a soft, lint free cloth can also be used. Be sure to rinse your jewelry in a glass of water to remove cleaning solutions since you risk losing loose stones or even an entire piece of jewelry if you rinse directly in the sink. Soft gems, such as pearls, on the other hand, can easily scratch. Use a new, clean makeup brush and warm, soapy water to softly clean them. Lay a strand of pearls on a towel to dry. The wet silk thread can stretch and attract dirt so don’t touch your strand until it is completely dry. Pearls worn often should be restrung once a year.

SAFELY STORE YOUR JEWELRY

Proper jewelry storage is often overlooked. Jewelry should never be tossed into a drawer or on top of a dresser that’s asking for scratches and damaged gems. Most jewelry pieces come in a box or pouch from the store, which is a perfect place to keep them. Sterling silver, for example, should be kept in an anti-tarnish bag or cloth. Jewelry boxes that feature individually padded slots for rings and posts for hanging necklaces and bracelets are also ideal.