Little rituals for lasting beauty
Antique and vintage jewels have already lived long, wonderful lives. A little thoughtful care helps keep them beautiful for the next chapter.
Store gently
Keep pieces separate to avoid scratches, tangles and little knocks.
Clean softly
Use a soft cloth and avoid harsh chemicals, dips or abrasive polishing.
Wear wisely
Remove jewellery for swimming, showering, cleaning and sleeping.
Check often
Have settings, clasps and stones checked by a jeweller when needed.
Old jewels prefer a softer touch
Antique jewellery was made to be worn and loved, but it should not be treated like brand new mass-produced jewellery.
Age, hand craftsmanship, older settings and delicate stones all deserve a little extra care.
When in doubt, keep things simple: dry storage, gentle handling and no harsh cleaning products.
Storage
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Store your jewellery somewhere dry, clean and away from direct sunlight.
Try to keep pieces separate, especially chains, pearls, softer stones and anything with raised settings.
A soft pouch, lined box or individual compartment is ideal for preventing scratches and tangles.
Cleaning
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For most pieces, a soft dry cloth is the safest place to start.
Avoid jewellery dips, ultrasonic cleaners and harsh chemical products unless a professional jeweller has confirmed they are suitable for that exact piece.
Foiled, closed-back, pearl, turquoise, opal and enamel pieces should be kept away from water and cleaning solutions.
Everyday wear
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Jewellery should usually be the last thing you put on and the first thing you take off.
Avoid wearing antique jewels while showering, swimming, exercising, cleaning, gardening or sleeping.
Perfume, lotions, hairspray and household products can dull surfaces, affect stones and weaken delicate materials over time.
Professional checks
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If you wear a piece regularly, it is sensible to have it checked by a trusted jeweller from time to time.
Claws, settings, clasps, hinges, jump rings and chain links can all loosen naturally with age and wear.
This is especially important for rings, fine chains, lockets and pieces with gemstones.
A little extra care
Some antique materials are more delicate than others. These pieces are beautiful, but they prefer gentle handling.
Pearls
Keep away from perfume, water and chemicals. Wipe gently after wear and store separately from harder stones.
Turquoise & opals
These stones can be porous or sensitive to heat, moisture and chemicals. Avoid soaking or sudden temperature changes.
Enamel & foiling
Older enamel and closed-back stones can be fragile. Avoid water, ultrasonic cleaning and pressure on decorated areas.