Jewellery Care Guide
Caring for Your Jewellery
Fine jewellery is designed to be worn and enjoyed for many years. With the right care and regular maintenance, your jewellery will continue to look its best while helping to protect gemstones and precious metals from unnecessary wear.
Everyday Jewellery Care
Although precious metals are durable, jewellery should be treated with care. Remove jewellery before heavy lifting, gardening, DIY, contact sports, swimming, using cleaning products or any activity that may expose it to knocks, chemicals or excessive force.
Cleaning Your Jewellery
Regular cleaning helps maintain the brilliance of your jewellery. Warm water, a small amount of mild washing-up liquid and a soft brush are suitable for cleaning most gold, platinum and diamond jewellery. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft, lint-free cloth. If you are unsure whether your jewellery is suitable for cleaning at home, please contact us for advice.
Storing Your Jewellery
Store jewellery separately in a soft pouch or lined jewellery box to help prevent scratching. Avoid allowing pieces to rub against each other, particularly diamonds, which can scratch other gemstones and precious metals.
Regular Inspections
We recommend having your jewellery professionally inspected on a regular basis. Claws, settings, clasps and mountings naturally wear over time and should be checked periodically to ensure gemstones remain secure.
Caring for Gold Jewellery
Gold is a durable precious metal but can become scratched through everyday wear. Regular cleaning and occasional professional polishing will help maintain its appearance. Avoid exposing gold jewellery to harsh chemicals such as bleach and household cleaning products.
Caring for Platinum Jewellery
Platinum naturally develops a soft patina over time as it is worn. This is a normal characteristic of the metal and many people appreciate its appearance. Professional polishing can restore a brighter finish if preferred.
Caring for Diamond Jewellery
Diamonds are extremely durable but are not indestructible. A hard impact may chip a diamond or loosen a setting. Regular cleaning helps maintain their sparkle, while routine inspections ensure that claws and settings remain secure.
Caring for Coloured Gemstones
Different gemstones have different care requirements. Some gemstones, such as sapphires and rubies, are suitable for everyday wear, while others, including emeralds, opals, pearls and tanzanites, require additional care due to their natural characteristics. If you are unsure how to care for your gemstone jewellery, our team will be happy to advise you.
Caring for Pearls
Pearls are delicate organic gemstones and should be protected from perfumes, hairsprays, cosmetics and household chemicals. Wipe pearls gently with a soft cloth after wearing and store them separately to help preserve their lustre.
Professional Cleaning & Maintenance
Professional cleaning, polishing and routine maintenance can help keep your jewellery looking its best. Our experienced team can inspect your jewellery, check gemstone settings and advise if any maintenance is recommended.
Protecting Valuable Jewellery
We recommend insuring valuable jewellery against accidental loss, theft or damage. Keeping your jewellery valuation up to date will help ensure appropriate insurance cover.
Need Expert Advice?
If you have any questions about caring for your jewellery or would like your jewellery professionally cleaned or inspected, please contact Andrew McCulloch Jewellers or visit our showroom. Our experienced team will be happy to help.
Visit us
McCulloch Jewellers, 7 The Square, Beeston, Nottingham NG9 2JG. Telephone 0115 925 7552.