Jewellery is more than a mere accessory—especially custom pieces that capture memories, carry emotional significance, and often become cherished heirlooms. At Gemz by Emz, we understand the importance of protecting your investment, ensuring it remains as beautiful and meaningful as the day you received it. Whether it’s a photo pendant featuring a loved one, a bracelet engraved with a special date, or a custom ring crafted just for you, proper care can make all the difference in how long your jewellery lasts.
In this post, we’ll walk you through simple yet effective ways to clean, store, and maintain your custom jewellery, so it can bring joy for generations. Let’s dive in!
1. Clean with Care
When it comes to cleaning your jewellery, especially custom pieces, a gentle approach is key. Many cleaning products on the market can be too harsh for delicate materials and intricate engravings, which is why we recommend these steps:
A Gentle Soap Solution
Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water. Soak your jewellery for a few minutes, then gently scrub using a soft toothbrush to remove dirt and oils without scratching the metal. Be especially cautious with pieces featuring photos or other custom designs, like our Photo Jewellery, to avoid any direct pressure on delicate areas.
Skip the Harsh Chemicals
Avoid bleach, ammonia, and other chemicals, as they can discolor metals, dull stones, and cause lasting damage. Many of Gemz by Emz’s custom pieces are made with premium metals like sterling silver and high-quality plating, so gentle cleaning is often all they need to keep their shine.
Pat Dry with a Soft Cloth
After rinsing, use a soft cloth (preferably microfiber) to pat your jewellery dry. Avoid paper towels, which can scratch surfaces. Let each piece air dry fully before storing to prevent moisture buildup, which could lead to tarnishing.
2. Store Safely
Storing your jewellery properly can prevent a multitude of issues, from scratches to tarnishing, and even breakage. Here are some tips on keeping your custom jewellery safe when it’s not being worn:
Separate Each Piece
Keeping each item separate is essential to prevent scratching or tangling. Invest in a jewellery box with individual compartments or pouches, or even store each item in a soft, fabric-lined box. For delicate items, such as necklaces with photo pendants, consider a pouch to cushion it further.
Limit Exposure to Air and Humidity
Tarnishing occurs more quickly when metals are exposed to humidity and air. When not in use, store items in airtight bags to slow down the tarnishing process. For jewellery with sentimental value, like a custom-engraved bracelet or an initial necklace, consider desiccant packets in your jewellery box to absorb moisture.
Consider a Jewellery Organiser
If you have several custom pieces, a high-quality jewellery organiser can make it easy to keep track of everything while providing extra protection. Choose one with padded compartments and drawers to avoid tangling and scratching.
3. Protect from Harmful Elements
Certain everyday activities and substances can degrade your jewellery over time. Here’s how to make sure your pieces stay safe from harmful exposure:
Remove Before Physical Activities
Before exercising, swimming, or any physical work, remove your jewellery to avoid damage from impact, sweat, or chemicals. Chlorine in pools and saltwater can weaken metal, while sweat can cause tarnishing, especially on silver items.
Avoid Contact with Lotions, Perfumes, and Household Cleaners
Lotions, oils, and perfumes can leave residues that dull jewellery over time. Try putting on your jewellery last after getting ready to minimize exposure. When cleaning around the house, take off rings, bracelets, and necklaces to avoid contact with harsh cleaning products.
Store Away from Direct Sunlight
Direct sunlight can fade certain gemstones and photo engravings over time. Always store your jewellery in a cool, shaded place.
4. Make Maintenance a Routine
Even with proper care, jewellery benefits from regular check-ups to keep it looking its best. Here’s how to make maintenance a habit:
Polish Regularly but Gently
For pieces that are starting to lose their shine, a polishing cloth can work wonders, particularly for metals like sterling silver. Be gentle with photo jewellery and engraved pieces to avoid dulling or scratching detailed work.
Check Clasps and Settings
It’s a good idea to periodically check the clasps, chains, and any prongs or settings on rings and necklaces. If something feels loose, it’s best to have it checked by a professional jeweller to prevent any part from becoming lost or damaged.
Plan an Annual Deep Clean
Once a year, take your most valuable or sentimental pieces to a jeweller for a professional cleaning and inspection. A jeweller can reach the intricate areas you might miss at home, ensuring your jewellery continues to look pristine.
Find Your Perfect Keepsake
At Gemz by Emz, we create pieces meant to last a lifetime, from custom photo necklaces to personalised rings and engraved bracelets. These pieces are designed to keep your memories close, making their care even more meaningful. Following these simple steps will protect your jewellery’s beauty, helping it stay just as stunning as the day you first wore it.
By investing in proper care, you’re not just preserving a piece of jewellery; you’re safeguarding a piece of your story.
