Rub-A-Dub: Caring For Your Jewellery Collection

The Art of Caring For Your Jewellery

Fine jewellery is a narrative held in gold and stone.

Whether a contemporary commission or a vintage heirloom, preserving its beauty for years to come requires thoughtful care and attention.

At Pieces of Eight, we create and curate pieces intended to be worn for decades, eventually to be passed to the next generation. However, the environmental factors of daily life, perfumes, lotions, and even natural oils, can dull the brilliance of your most cherished items.

To help you maintain the integrity of your collection, our specialists have compiled an essential guide to at-home care and professional maintenance.

1. The Golden Rule of Storage

The way you store your jewellery is as important as how you wear it. To avoid scratches and tangles:

• Individual Compartments: Harder gemstones, like diamonds, can easily scratch softer ones such as opals or pearls, and even gold itself. Store pieces in individual soft pouches or lined compartments.

• Climate Control: Excess moisture can lead to premature tarnishing of some alloys. Keep your jewellery box in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

2. Gentle At-Home Cleansing

For your gold and diamond pieces, a simple ritual can restore their light:

• The Method: Use a bowl of warm water with a few drops of pH-neutral, fragrance-free dish soap. Soak for 10 minutes, then gently brush with a very soft-bristled toothbrush.

• The Warning: This method is not suitable for porous stones like pearls, opals, or emeralds. These require only a soft, damp cloth and should never be submerged.

3. Mindful Wear

Chemicals are the silent enemy of fine jewellery. Make it a habit to follow the "Last On, First Off" rule:

• Your jewellery should be the final touch after applying perfume, hairspray and lotions.

• Remove your rings before heavy lifting, gardening, or swimming in chlorinated pools, as chlorine can chemically weaken gold over time.

4. The Professional Check-up

Just as an artwork requires occasional conservation, fine jewellery benefits from a professional eye. Over time, the claws holding your gemstones can wear down or snag, risking the loss of a stone.

Time For A Deep Clean?

Is your collection ready for a seasonal refresh? We invite you to visit our Melbourne gallery for a professional assessment. Our team can provide ultrasonic cleaning for eligible pieces and inspect your settings to ensure your diamonds and gemstones are secure.

Book in a Complimentary Ring Clean or Annual Service via this link.