Tips for Caring for Jewelry

Use Ultrasonic Cleaners with Caution
Ultrasonic cleaners can be effective for certain types of jewelry, but not all gems are safe to clean this way.

Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners on:

  • Heat-treated gemstones

  • Stones sensitive to heat or temperature changes, such as tanzanite, iolite, lapis lazuli, opal, turquoise, zircon, and others

  • Organic gems like amber, pearls, ivory, and coral

  • Gems with fractures or inclusions that have been filled with substances like wax, resin, or oil

Ultrasonic machines work by generating high-frequency vibrations to remove buildup, but this motion can also loosen stones from their settings.

For the best results, always consult a professional jeweler before using an ultrasonic cleaner.
Better yet—let us handle it for you. We offer free professional jewelry cleaning to help keep your pieces safe, secure, and sparkling.

Avoid Chemicals Around Jewelry
Everyday chemicals can be surprisingly harsh on both gemstones and precious metals — even diamonds. Delicate gems like pearls and turquoise are especially vulnerable to damage from common substances.

Always remove your jewelry before:

  • Swimming in pools or hot tubs (chlorine can cause permanent damage)

  • Using household cleaning products

  • Applying lotions, perfumes, or hair sprays

To protect your jewelry’s beauty and longevity, it’s best to take it off before handling any chemicals. A little caution goes a long way in preserving your most cherished pieces.

Storing Your Jewelry
Proper jewelry storage is often overlooked, but it plays a crucial role in preserving the beauty and condition of your pieces.

Avoid:

  • Tossing jewelry into drawers, onto nightstands, or dressers — this can lead to scratches, tangles, and unnecessary damage.

Best Practices:

  • Use a dedicated jewelry box to keep pieces organized and protected. The original box is fine for short-term storage, but a larger, compartmentalized jewelry box is ideal for keeping everything secure in one place.

  • Sterling silver should be stored in a plastic zip-top bag with an anti-tarnish cloth to prevent oxidation.

  • When traveling, store pieces separately to avoid scratching, especially when carrying delicate gemstones or mixed materials.

A little care in storage goes a long way in keeping your jewelry safe, sparkling, and ready to wear.