Caring for your jewelry is one of the best investments you can make to prolong your pieces' lustrous life. Listed below are a few helpful ideas to keep your jewelry looking brand new.

First, to protect the natural finish of your jewelry, avoid contact with hairspray, perfume, and lotions. All gemstones, pearls, 14kt gold fill, and sterling silver, can be safely cleaned with a very mild soap and water. Always store jewelry in clean, dry, fabric-lined boxes. Pearls should be stored separately in their own fabric pouches.

Second, it is normal for all metals — especially silver — to oxidize when exposed to air. When you are not wearing your jewelry, always try and keep it in airtight bags or in anti-tarnish pouches. If your jewelry does tarnish, you can clean it by hand with a metal appropriate cleaner. Never expose pearls or soft gemstones such as opals to metal cleaner. This type of cleaner will destroy the luster of these natural stones. Instead, use polishing cloths that are made of non-abrasive material.

And third, to really protect your jewelry, it is always a good idea to put it on last when getting dressed. This way you will prevent hairspray, perfume, and lotions from getting on or staining the metal or gemstones.

Please feel free to contact me if you have any jewelry care questions at info@studio16designs.com.