Jewellery is more than just an accessory, it’s often a gift, a keepsake, or a cherished reminder of a special moment. Whether it’s your engagement ring, a pair of everyday earrings, or a statement necklace, proper care can keep your pieces shining bright for generations.
Here are our top jewellery care and cleaning tips to help you protect your treasures.
1. Keep It Clean, But Gently
Over time, dust, lotions, and natural oils can dull the sparkle of your jewellery.
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Gold & Silver: Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water. Soak for 10–15 minutes, gently scrub with a soft toothbrush, rinse, and pat dry with a lint-free cloth.
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Gemstones: Use the same gentle soap and water method, but avoid soaking porous stones like opal, pearl, and turquoise. Instead, wipe them with a damp cloth.
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Never use harsh chemicals — bleach, alcohol, and ammonia can damage metals and loosen settings.
2. Store Smart
How you store your jewellery can make a big difference.
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Keep pieces separated to avoid scratching — soft pouches or lined compartments work best.
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Store in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight and moisture.
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For silver jewellery, consider anti-tarnish strips or cloths to reduce oxidisation.
3. Remove Before Everyday Tasks
It might be tempting to leave your jewellery on all the time, but everyday activities can take a toll.
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Take off your rings before cleaning, gardening, or exercising.
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Avoid wearing jewellery while swimming, chlorine and salt water can erode metals and weaken settings.
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Apply perfumes, lotions, and hairspray before putting on your jewellery.
4. Know When to Get It Checked
If you wear your jewellery often, especially engagement or wedding rings, have them professionally inspected and cleaned once a year. A jeweller can check for loose stones, worn claws, or signs of damage that could lead to loss.
5. Special Care for Pearls & Costume Jewellery
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Pearls love to be worn (the skin’s natural oils keep them lustrous), but always wipe them clean after use and store them flat.
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Costume jewellery should never be soaked. Simply wipe with a soft cloth and store in a dry place to prevent tarnish.
6. Give Your Jewellery a Little TLC
Even the best-made pieces need occasional care. Make it a routine, a few minutes every month can help your jewellery stay looking as beautiful as the day you got it.
If you’re unsure about how to clean a specific piece, feel free to call into Maynooth Jewellers, we’re always happy to help with professional cleaning, repairs, or advice.
💍 At Maynooth Jewellers, we believe every piece deserves to shine, and with the right care, it will.