Fine jewellery is built to last generations, but it isn't indestructible — and most of the damage that shortens a piece's life happens quietly, through everyday habits rather than accidents. A little care goes a long way, and most of it costs nothing but attention.
The basics: on and off
The single most protective habit is also the simplest: put jewellery on last, and take it off first. Perfume, hairspray and lotion all contain chemicals that dull metal and cloud stones over time, so getting dressed before putting on rings and necklaces avoids most of that contact entirely. The same logic applies at the end of the day — jewellery off before washing hands, showering, or going to bed, since soap residue and the friction of sleep are both quietly hard on settings.
Know your stone
Not all gemstones handle the world the same way. Diamonds are the hardest natural material, which makes them relatively low-maintenance day to day — but even diamonds can chip on a hard edge if struck at the right angle. Softer stones like opals, pearls and emeralds are far more sensitive to knocks, chemicals and even changes in humidity, and are generally better suited to occasion wear than daily use. If a piece has a stone you're unsure about, it's always worth asking rather than guessing — the right care routine is different for every gem.
Cleaning at home
Most fine jewellery can be safely cleaned at home with nothing more than warm water, a drop of mild dish soap, and a soft-bristled brush (an old, clean toothbrush works well). Gently work the brush around the setting where dust and residue collect, rinse thoroughly, and dry with a soft cloth. What to avoid: ultrasonic cleaners for anything with fracture-filled or heavily included stones, and household chemicals like bleach or chlorine, which can pit gold and damage certain gemstones on contact.
Storage that actually protects
Jewellery stored loose in a drawer is jewellery that scratches other jewellery — diamonds in particular are hard enough to mark gold, platinum and softer stones on contact. Keeping pieces separated, whether in individual pouches or a lined box with divided compartments, is one of the easiest ways to prevent the kind of fine surface scratching that dulls a piece's shine over months and years.
When to bring a piece in
Some things are worth a professional look rather than a home fix:
- A stone that feels even slightly loose when nudged gently
- Visible wear on prongs or claws holding a stone in place
- A clasp that's becoming stiff or difficult to close
- Any noticeable bend in a ring band or chain link
None of these are emergencies, but they're the kind of small issues that are inexpensive to fix early and expensive to fix late — a loose stone caught in time is a five-minute repair; a lost stone is a much bigger job.
A simple annual habit
Beyond daily care, it's worth having fine jewellery — especially pieces worn often, like engagement rings and everyday chains — checked roughly once a year. A quick inspection catches the early signs of wear long before they become visible problems, and it's a habit that costs very little against the alternative.
If it's been a while since a piece has had a proper look, or something just doesn't feel quite right when you wear it, bring it into the workshop. A quick check is often all it takes.
