Jewelry Care And Cleaning Tips
The cleaning process that is right for each piece of your jewelry depends on the materials and the type and quality of workmanship that went into making the piece.
Properly cleaned and cared for, your jewelry will look great for a lifetime of wearing pleasure.
There are many commercial liquid cleaning solutions on the market. Most solutions are safe to use in most cases, but if it contains ammonia, it can attack cultured pearls and many of the materials used in costume jewelry. In addition, any solution containing bleach can pit gold alloys. Your best bet is to purchase an ammonia free jewelry cleaner.
Most costume jewelry cleans well with mild, soapy water and a soft brush. When cleaning, use a few drops of mild detergent mixed with a little warm water. Don’t soak glued pearl or gemstone jewelry or any pieces of jewelry made with rhinestones. Remove jewelry when you are done cleaning, and dry off with a soft cloth.
There are three important guidelines to follow in caring for your jewelry: separate it, avoid jewelry contact with perfume, hair spray and makeup, and don’t wear it during a vigorous activity.
Most jewelry comes packaged in soft sacks, boxes, tissue paper, or zip-lock plastic bags. There is a good reason for this individual packaging: jewelry is supposed to rest against your body, not other pieces of jewelry.
When something hard, such as a diamond or glass, rubs against something soft, such as gold, pearls, or plastic, the softer materials come out the losers. That’s why it is a poor idea to toss your rhinestone earrings in the bottom of your jewelry box right next to your string of cultured pearls or sterling silver bangle. Separating your jewelry in individual boxes, bags, or the compartments in your jewelry box will help it to last a lifetime.
Put your makeup, hairspray, and perfume on first and then put your jewelry on. The chemicals in these products can damage costume jewelry when applied directly onto them.
Finally, no jewelry holds up well under hard physical activity. Whether you are doing heavy chores, playing a set of tennis, or taking a dip in a chlorinated pool, your jewelry isn’t strong enough to go with you. Removing all jewelry before beginning physical activities can help prevent a disappointing damage or loss later.
About the Author:
Dreassing for Success! Don’t Forget the Earrings! Find out more about Hoop Earrings at http://HoopEarring.eabout.info
Written By: Jens J.Grafe
