Jewellery Care

The Facetelle guide

Jewellery Care

Small habits make the greatest difference: take jewellery off for the right tasks, clean it gently, store pieces separately and have settings checked when needed.

Wearing

Take it off for impact

Remove fine jewellery for sport, heavy lifting, gardening and hands-on cleaning. Diamond is hard, but it can still chip and settings can bend.

Keep chemicals away

Put jewellery on after perfume, hairspray and cosmetics. Remove it before swimming or using household cleaners; chlorine and other chemicals can damage metals and some gems.

Notice changes

A moving stone, catching claw, stretched chain or clasp that no longer closes cleanly is a reason to stop wearing the piece and have it checked.

Cleaning

For many plain gold, platinum and untreated diamond pieces, use lukewarm water with a small amount of mild washing-up liquid. Soak briefly, brush gently with a very soft brush, rinse in a bowl rather than over an open drain, and pat dry with a lint-free cloth.

Do not assume steam or ultrasonic cleaning is safe. Avoid it for pearls, opals, emeralds, turquoise, organic gems, fracture-filled stones, jewellery with surface-reaching fractures and delicate or antique settings. If you do not know the material or treatment, ask before cleaning.

Checked against GIA’s jewellery care guidance.

Storing

Separate pieces

Keep jewellery in individual pouches or lined compartments so diamonds, chains and polished surfaces do not rub together.

Fasten chains

Close clasps and lay chains flat or hang them separately to reduce tangling and strain.

Choose a stable place

Store away from damp, direct heat and sudden temperature changes. Keep pearl jewellery in a soft pouch rather than against harder stones.

Material-specific care

Gold and platinum

Expect fine surface marks with wear. Avoid abrasive pastes; professional refinishing removes a small amount of metal and should be considered rather than routine.

Diamonds

Oil and product residue can reduce sparkle. Clean gently and have claws and settings inspected if the ring is worn often.

Pearls

Wipe with a very soft cloth after wear. Keep away from perfume and acids; never use steam or ultrasonic cleaning. Let a wet strand dry fully before wearing.

Coloured gemstones

Care depends on the gem and any treatment. Heat, solvents, steam and ultrasonic cleaning can affect some stones, so check the specific advice first.

Servicing

How often a piece needs inspection depends on its design and how it is worn. Arrange a check if you notice movement, wear or impact, and before relying on an older piece for daily wear. Ask Facetelle what inspection, cleaning or repair is appropriate for your jewellery.

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