Monday, February 8, 2010

Storing and Caring for your Jewelry

Whether it is an heirloom or a new personal creation, our jewelry is precious to us! Here are some easy steps to take to ensure a long and shiny life for your jewels.
  • Always store pieces separately so that they won't damage or scratch each other.
  • Put jewelry on after applying make-up, perfume, or hairspray. Often these items contain chemicals that can damage your jewelry.
  • Remember to remove jewelry before swimming, soaking in a hot-tub, gardening, washing dishes, exercising or other strenuous activity.
  • Pieces strung on silk or thread (i.e. pearl necklaces, bracelets) should be stored flat as they do stretch over time.
  • Store Silver pieces in re-sealable bags due to the fact that oxygen causes Silver to oxidize (tarnish)
  • Pearls and opals, however, should not be stored in plastic because they need to "breathe."
  • Wipe all pieces with soft 100% cotton cloth after wearing and before storage.
  • Clean jewelry regularly with mildly sudsy water, rinse really well, and pat dry with a soft cloth.
  • Do not use commercial cleaners on the following stones: Amber, Aquamarine, Coral, Emerald, Jade, Lapis Lazuli, Malachite, Opal, Pearls, Shell & Turquoise

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