For centuries, jewellery has held a special place in our lives. It adorns our bodies, telling the beautiful and beloved stories of our heritage, and we use it to mark some of the most momentous occasions in our lives like weddings, anniversaries, and the birth of a child.
As goldsmiths, we’ve dedicated our daily lives to handmaking jewellery pieces that not only shimmer with beauty but will withstand the test of time.
But just like any other luxury object, all jewellery requires proper care to maintain its brilliance and its longevity.
To help you care for your jewellery, Aztec Jewellers, a jewellery store in Nelspruit, has some secrets learned at the jeweller’s bench that you can use to ensure that your treasured pieces continue to bring you joy for years to come.
Understanding Your Metals
The care your jewellery needs depends on the type of metal it’s made from.
Each metal requires not only different care but sometimes a different cleaning technique too.
And then there is the risk of damaging jewellery that you are not sure about. Often plated jewellery is mistaken for the real deal and damaged during a cleaning. When in doubt, always ask your jeweller to look at your jewellery first.
If you need a professional to look at your accessory, don’t be shy about popping into our jewellery shop in Nelspruit.
If you do know what your jewellery is made of, you can use this as your guide:
- Yellow Gold: A true, never-goes-out-of-style classic, yellow gold is loved for its warmth and vintage appeal. Regular cleaning with a soft polishing cloth, one specifically designed for gold, will remove everyday dust and grime. You should avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia, as these can dull the metal’s shine.
- Rose Gold: This romantic metal adds a touch of blush to any ensemble and has fast become a favourite, especially among brides. You should clean rose gold with a gentle gold polish or a mild dish soap solution followed by a thorough rinsing with clean water. Remember, rose gold is a delicate alloy, so avoid abrasive cleaners or vigorous scrubbing.
- White Gold: Often plated with rhodium for a bright, platinum-like finish, white gold requires a touch more TLC. A professional cleaning every few years is recommended to restore its pristine white sheen. At home, use a soft polishing cloth to buff away minor tarnish.
- Titanium: A lightweight and hypoallergenic metal, titanium is a popular choice for modern jewellery. Its inherent strength makes it highly resistant to scratches and tarnish. However, it can pick up fingerprints. A simple wipe with a damp cloth is all it takes to keep it looking sharp.
- Silver: Silver’s natural beauty lies in its cool sheen. However, it’s prone to tarnishing. A silver polishing cloth will remove the tarnish and restore its shine. For heavily tarnished pieces, a silver dip solution can be used, following the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Storing Your Heirlooms
Proper storage is just as important as cleaning. Here are some tips to ensure your jewellery remains safe and untangled:
- Invest in a jewellery box: Choose a lined box with compartments to prevent pieces from rubbing against each other and causing scratches.
- Separate different metals: Store silver jewellery away from gold or platinum pieces to prevent tarnishing.
- Keep it cool and dry: Avoid storing jewellery in direct sunlight or humid environments, which can accelerate tarnishing.
Why Professional Care is Still a Must
Even with the best home care, an annual professional cleaning by a jeweller is highly recommended. A trained jeweller, like Ron at Aztec Jewellers, a jewellery shop in Nelspruit, can inspect your pieces for loose prongs, worn clasps, or hidden dirt that might not be visible to the naked eye. They can also use specialised cleaning methods and equipment to restore the original brilliance of your jewellery, ensuring it continues to be a source of pride and joy for generations to come.
Think of your jewellery as an investment in your personal story. When you follow these simple care tips and schedule regular professional cleanings, you can ensure your treasured pieces remain radiant reflections of your style and the special moments they represent.
After all, a little care goes a long way in preserving the magic of jewellery.