Fine jewellery is both a gift of nature and the result of the jeweller’s craft. With proper care and correct handling, it can be enjoyed and worn for a lifetime.
Storage
Diamonds are the hardest natural substance, yet they can still scratch one another or chip if subjected to impact. Jewellery should never be stored loosely or jumbled together. Each item should be kept separately in a soft pouch or in its own compartment within a jewellery box.
Normal Wear
During everyday wear, jewellery inevitably comes into contact with surfaces harder than the precious metal from which it is made. The speed and extent of wear depend largely on how jewellery is handled and cared for.
Jewellery should be removed during activities such as gardening, mountaineering, gym exercise, sport, working with hand tools, or even washing steel cutlery. These activities can cause scratching, deformation, and gradual metal loss over time.
A strong impact may break claws on a ring or bend a fine band, allowing gems to loosen or fall out. Diamonds with very thin girdles may be damaged by impact, while diamonds with lower clarity may experience the extension of existing internal fractures.
Chains and bracelets require regular cleaning. Dust, body oils, and hand creams can combine to form an abrasive paste that clogs moving links and accelerates wear.
If jewellery comes into contact with mercury, wipe the item clean immediately and contact Prins & Prins for professional assessment. Chlorine, bleach, and other chemicals may cause pitting or discolouration of metal mountings.
Gold jewellery should be removed before showering, as soap residue dulls the surface. Jewellery should always be put on after make-up, perfume, or hairspray has been applied.
Tanzanite, opals, and certain other gemstones should never be cleaned using steam or ultrasonic cleaners.
Jewellery should be cleaned regularly using a professional cleaning solution obtained from a reputable jewellery store.
Pearls
Pearls require particular care. Never clean pearls using steam, ultrasonic cleaners, or toothbrushes. Detergents, baking soda, and ammonia-based cleaners should also be avoided.
Pearls should not be stored near heaters, in direct sunlight, or in sealed plastic bags, as they may dry out and crack. They are best kept in soft jewellery pouches to prevent abrasion.
Pearl necklaces should always be strung with a knot between each pearl to prevent loss should the thread break.
After wearing, pearls should be gently wiped with a damp cloth and mild soap foam.
Pearl necklaces stretch with wear, and the thread weakens over time. If worn regularly, pearls should be professionally cleaned and restrung approximately once a year.
For professional cleaning, repairs, inspections, and pearl stringing, please visit our Jewellery Services page or consult with our team at Prins & Prins.