Caring for Fine Jewelry

Keep Your Treasures Beautiful

Taking care of your jewelry keeps it sparkling and lets you enjoy it for years to come. With a few simple habits, you can protect your favorite rings, necklaces, and bracelets from damage, dullness, or loss. For details about caring for specific types, check out our guides on diamond cleaning and gemstone cleaning.

How to Clean Fine Jewelry

1. Fill a small bowl with lukewarm water and a drop of mild dish soap.
2. Let your jewelry soak for 10 to 15 minutes.
3. Gently brush each piece with a soft toothbrush, especially around prongs and settings.
4. Rinse well with clean water to remove all soap.
5. Pat dry with a lint-free cloth and let your jewelry air dry before storing.

Pro Tip

Pearls and softer gemstones need special care. Never soak them, just wipe gently with a damp cloth. If your jewelry includes different stones or metals, always follow the cleaning instructions for the most delicate material. Have questions? Contact us for personalized advice.

Storage and Daily Care

Store jewelry separately in a soft pouch or lined box, and remove it before swimming, cleaning, or exercising. Put on lotions, perfumes, and hair products before your jewelry to help avoid residue buildup. For more information on storage and precious metals, visit our Precious Metals guide.

Gemstone Jewelry Care Guide

Do's

  • Store each piece in a soft pouch or lined jewelry box.
  • Remove jewelry before swimming, cleaning, exercising, or gardening.
  • Get your jewelry inspected and professionally cleaned at least once a year—consider making an appointment for a checkup.
  • Check for loose stones, prongs, or clasps regularly.

Don'ts

  • Use harsh chemicals, bleach, or toothpaste to clean jewelry.
  • Expose jewelry to high heat, humidity, or direct sunlight for long periods.
  • Wear jewelry while applying lotions, perfumes, or hair products.
  • Store jewelry in humid bathrooms or in direct sunlight.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I clean my fine jewelry?

How often should I have my jewelry professionally inspected?

What’s the safest way to clean antique or fragile jewelry?

Can I use an ultrasonic cleaner?

How should I store silver jewelry to prevent tarnishing?

What if my jewelry gets exposed to chemicals?

Should I take off my rings before bed or showering?