Jewellery Care Guide

Put your jewellery on after applying perfume, lotion, and cosmetics — and remove it first at the end of the day. These residues dull stones and tarnish metals.

Remove pieces before swimming (chlorine), cleaning (bleach and ammonia), or heavy work. Harsh chemicals can etch metals and damage softer stones.

Diamonds will scratch other gemstones and even each other. Keep each piece in its own soft pouch or compartment to prevent abrasion and tangled chains.

Soak in warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap, then gently brush with a soft toothbrush. Ultrasonic cleaners are safe for untreated diamonds. Avoid steam if the stone has fractures.

Durable and suitable for everyday wear. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic cleaning is safe for most untreated stones; avoid if the stone is oiled or fracture-filled.

Often treated with natural oils to enhance clarity. Never use ultrasonic or steam cleaning — heat and solvent will strip the oil and may widen inclusions. Wipe gently with a damp, soft cloth only.

Soft and porous. Avoid water immersion, heat, and chemicals. Wipe pearls with a soft cloth after each wear; opals prefer stable humidity. Have strands re-strung annually if worn often.

Store the original GIA report in a fireproof location and keep a digital copy. The report number is laser-inscribed on the girdle of most diamonds — verify it matches at each service.

Use your GIA report for accurate insurance coverage. Re-appraise every 3–5 years, as market values for fine stones can rise substantially over time.

Bring your piece in once a year so our jewellers can check prongs and settings. A loose stone is the most common cause of loss — a quick re-tip can save your investment.

Never polish aggressively over the hallmark area — it confirms the metal's purity (e.g. 750 for 18ct gold, 950 for platinum). A soft polishing cloth is all you need for routine care.

Platinum develops a natural, sought-after patina over time. If you prefer a mirror finish, our jewellers can re-polish it. Platinum is dense and rarely loses metal, so it's ideal for heirlooms.

White gold is rhodium-plated for a bright white finish. Re-plating every 1–3 years restores its brilliance. Yellow and rose gold need only a gentle polish to keep their warm tone.

Keep pieces in lined jewellery boxes away from direct sunlight and humidity. Fasten chains to prevent tangling, and store rings upright to protect settings. A small sachet of silica gel prevents tarnish in damp climates.

Book a professional service if stones feel loose, claws look worn, or a ring no longer sits straight. We offer complimentary cleaning and security checks with every appointment at our Blantyre atelier.