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Jewelry Care 101: How to Keep Your Rings, Bracelets, and Handchains Sparkling

Jewelry Care 101: How to Keep Your Rings, Bracelets, and Handchains Sparkling

Mar 01, 2025

Noura Schärer

Your jewelry is more than just an accessory—it’s a reflection of your style and cherished memories. Whether it’s a dazzling ring, a delicate bracelet, or a trendy handchain, proper care ensures your pieces stay beautiful for years to come. In this guide, we’ll share simple yet effective tips to keep your jewelry looking as stunning as the day you bought it.


1. Cleaning Your Jewelry at Home

Regular cleaning is essential to maintain the sparkle of your jewelry. Here’s how to clean different materials safely:

  • Gold Jewelry:
    Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water. Soak your gold rings, bracelets, or handchains for 10-15 minutes, then gently scrub with a soft toothbrush. Rinse and dry with a lint-free cloth.

  • Silver Jewelry:
    Create a paste with baking soda and water. Gently rub the paste onto your silver pieces, rinse thoroughly, and polish with a microfiber cloth. For tarnished silver, use a specialized silver cleaner.

  • Gemstone Jewelry:
    Use a soft cloth dampened with water and mild soap to clean gemstones. Avoid harsh chemicals, as they can damage certain stones like opals or pearls.

Pro Tip: Always remove your jewelry before applying lotions, perfumes, or hairspray to prevent buildup.


2. Storing Your Jewelry Properly

How you store your jewelry can make a big difference in its longevity. Follow these tips:

  • Separate Pieces: Store rings, bracelets, and handchains separately to prevent scratches. Use a jewelry box with compartments or soft pouches.

  • Avoid Humidity: Keep your jewelry in a dry place, as moisture can cause tarnishing.

  • Use Anti-Tarnish Strips: Place these in your jewelry box to protect silver pieces from tarnishing.

Pro Tip: Hang delicate handchains or bracelets on a jewelry stand to prevent tangling.


3. When to Seek Professional Cleaning

While at-home cleaning works for most jewelry, some pieces need professional care:

  • Complex Designs: Intricate settings or multi-stone pieces may require a jeweler’s expertise.

  • Deep Cleaning: Professionals use ultrasonic cleaners to remove dirt from hard-to-reach areas.

  • Stone Tightening: Regular check-ups ensure gemstones are secure in their settings.

Pro Tip: Schedule a professional cleaning every 6-12 months for high-quality pieces.


4. Daily Habits to Protect Your Jewelry

Small changes in your routine can make a big difference:

  • Remove Jewelry During Activities: Take off rings, bracelets, and handchains before swimming, exercising, or cleaning.

  • Avoid Chemicals: Keep jewelry away from chlorine, bleach, and other harsh substances.

  • Polish Regularly: Use a polishing cloth to maintain shine between cleanings.

Pro Tip: Put your jewelry on last when getting ready to minimize exposure to cosmetics and hair products.


5. Special Care for Handchains

Handchains are delicate and require extra attention:

  • Avoid Snagging: Be mindful of clothing or surfaces that could catch the chain.

  • Store Flat: Lay handchains flat in a jewelry box to prevent bending or breaking.

  • Clean Gently: Use a soft cloth to wipe down handchains after each wear.

Pro Tip: Rotate your handchains to reduce wear and tear on individual pieces.


Conclusion: Love Your Jewelry, Care for It Well

Your rings, bracelets, and handchains are more than just accessories—they’re treasures that deserve proper care. By following these simple tips, you can keep your jewelry sparkling and ensure it lasts for generations.

Ready to add more timeless pieces to your collection? Explore our jewelry shop for handcrafted rings, bracelets, and handchains designed to inspire.