Home

A beautiful necklace can be a cherished heirloom or a stunning fashion statement. But to keep your pieces looking radiant and ensure they last for years, proper care is crucial. Whether it's a delicate chain, a bold pendant, or a strand of pearls, here are expert tips for maintaining your necklaces:

1. Smart Daily Wear Habits:

• Dress Last, Remove First: Put on your necklace after applying makeup, perfume, and hairspray. These products contain chemicals that can damage metals and dull gemstones. Similarly, take off your jewelry before showering, swimming (chlorine and salt water are very damaging), exercising, or household cleaning.
• Tangling Troubles: When putting on necklaces, especially finer chains, fasten the clasp first, then drape it around your neck. To prevent tangling in storage, store each necklace individually or use specialised jewelry organizers with compartments or hooks.
• Avoid Rough Handling: Necklaces, especially those with gemstones, can scratch if knocked against hard surfaces. Be mindful during daily activities.

2. Gentle & Regular Cleaning:

• The Basics: For most solid gold, platinum, sterling silver, and gemstone necklaces (excluding softer stones like pearls, opals, or coral), a simple soak works wonders. Use a bowl of lukewarm water mixed with a few drops of mild, non-abrasive dish soap.
• Details Matter: Allow the necklace to soak for 5-15 minutes. Gently agitate it in the solution. Use a very soft-bristled toothbrush dipped solely in the soapy water to carefully clean intricate links, chain details, or settings around stones. Avoid scrubbing gemstones aggressively.
• Pearls & Delicate Pieces: Never submerge pearls, opals, coral, or amber. Simply wipe them gently with a soft, damp cloth after wearing to remove skin oils and residue. Dry immediately with another soft cloth.
• Rinse & Dry Thoroughly: Rinse the necklace under lukewarm running water, ensuring all soap residue is removed. Pat it completely dry with a clean, soft, lint-free cloth. Trapped moisture can lead to damage, especially for silver. Air drying on a soft towel is also effective.

3. Proper Storage:

• Separate & Protected: Don't throw necklaces together in a drawer. Chains tangle easily and harder stones can scratch softer metals or gems. Store each necklace separately.
• Environment: Keep your jewelry away from sources of heat, humidity, and direct sunlight. Use anti-tarnish strips for silver jewelry if storing long-term. Silk pouches or acid-free tissue paper offer extra protection.
• The Right Holder: Utilize a jewelry box with necklace hooks, dedicated necklace trees, or organizers with velvet-lined compartments. Store necklaces lying flat or hanging to prevent kinks.

Following these simple but essential steps significantly extends the life and brilliance of your necklaces. Taking just a few moments for proper care ensures your treasured pieces remain captivating for years to come. Invest in protecting the beautiful necklace you love, and enjoy its sparkle daily with confidence.