Jewelry Care

Jewelry Care Guide

Proper care protects your jewelry’s beauty, value, and longevity. Whether you own vintage pieces, estate treasures, or modern diamond classics, following these guidelines will help keep your collection looking its best.

Daily Care Essentials

Put jewelry on last.
Apply perfumes, lotions, hairspray, and cosmetics before wearing your pieces to prevent buildup and discoloration.

Take jewelry off first.
Remove pieces before showering, swimming, exercising, or sleeping to avoid unnecessary wear and damage.

Avoid chemicals.
Chlorine, household cleaners, and even some soaps can dull metals and weaken gemstones over time.

 

Cleaning at Home

Gold & Platinum

  • Use warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap.

  • Soak 10–15 minutes.

  • Gently brush with a soft toothbrush.

  • Rinse and dry with a lint-free cloth.

Diamonds

  • Clean the same way as gold, focusing on the underside of the stone where oils collect.

  • Avoid harsh abrasives; they can scratch the metal setting.

Colored Gemstones

  • Use a soft cloth and mild soapy water.

  • Avoid ultrasonic cleaners—many gemstones (emeralds, opals, sapphires with inclusions) are sensitive to vibration and heat.

Antique & Estate Pieces

  • Handle with extra care.

  • Avoid DIY polishing on fragile settings or older stones.

  • When in doubt, bring them in for a professional checkup.

Storage Tips

  • Store jewelry separately to avoid scratches.

  • Use soft pouches, individual boxes, or lined compartments.

  • Keep sterling silver pieces in airtight bags to slow tarnishing.

  • Never store pearls in plastic—they need airflow.

Professional Maintenance

We recommend a full inspection every 6–12 months.
A jeweler should check:

  • Prongs and settings

  • Stone security

  • Clasps and hinges

  • Watch seals and movement (if applicable)

Professional cleaning restores brilliance and ensures long-term durability—especially for estate and antique jewelry.

Special Care Notes

Pearls

  • Wipe with a soft cloth after each wear.

  • Keep away from perfumes and hairspray.

  • Restring regularly if worn often.

Opals & Emeralds

  • Sensitive to heat, dryness, and sudden temperature changes.

  • Avoid ultrasonic cleaners.

Vintage & Filigree Work

  • Extremely delicate.

  • Clean gently and avoid toothbrush bristles that may catch on metalwork.

When to Bring a Piece In

Seek professional help if you notice:

  • Stones shifting or rattling

  • Visible cracks or chips

  • Bent prongs

  • Broken clasps or links

  • Extreme tarnish on silver

  • Estate pieces showing structural wear

Need Help with a Specific Piece?

New York Estate Jewelry offers professional cleaning, inspection, restoration, and repair for gold, diamonds, vintage pieces, and family heirlooms. Our experts handle every item with precision and care.

If you need personalized guidance, reach out anytime.