Jewellery care

Fine jewellery is made to be worn. A little care keeps it bright and secure for years. Here are simple fixes and habits you can follow at home, and the signs that a piece needs a jeweller.

Untangling a chain

• Lay the chain flat on a clean, smooth surface in good light.
• Open the clasp so both ends are free.
• Place a drop of baby oil or a little talc on the knot. This helps the links slide.
• Use two fine needles or pins to ease the knot apart from its centre, working outwards.
• Be patient. Do not pull on the ends, as this tightens the knot and can break fine links.
• Once free, wash the chain in warm soapy water to remove the oil, then dry it gently.

Fastening a bracelet on your own

• Tape one end of the bracelet to the inside of your wrist with a small piece of soft tape, then bring the clasp round to meet it.
• Or hook an unfolded paperclip through the ring at one end. Hold the paperclip in your fingers while you fasten the clasp with your other hand.

A hoop that will not close

If a hinged hoop no longer clicks shut, the post may have moved slightly out of line. Look closely to see where it meets the catch. A very gentle press can sometimes bring it back. If it resists, do not force it. Take it to a jeweller.

Cleaning gold

• Mix a few drops of mild, unscented washing-up liquid into a bowl of warm water.
• Soak the piece for 10 to 15 minutes.
• Brush gently with a very soft toothbrush, paying attention to the back and the links.
• Rinse in clean warm water. Close the sink plug first.
• Dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.

Cleaning diamonds

Diamonds attract oil from skin, lotion and soap, which dims their sparkle. A gentle clean brings back their light.

• Use the same warm soapy water and soft toothbrush as for gold.
• Brush the underside of the stone, where most residue gathers.
• Rinse well and dry with a lint-free cloth.
• Avoid touching the stone with your fingers once clean.

What to avoid

• Chlorine, bleach and household cleaners. They can weaken gold alloys.
• Toothpaste, baking soda and abrasive cloths. They scratch metal and wear away rhodium plating.
• Ultrasonic and steam cleaners at home, unless a jeweller has confirmed they are safe for that piece. Vibration can loosen stones.
• Perfume, hairspray and lotion on your jewellery. Put jewellery on last and take it off first.
• Swimming pools, the sea, the gym, the garden and heavy lifting.

Storing your jewellery

• Keep each piece apart, in its own soft pouch or a lined compartment. Diamonds can scratch other diamonds and metal.
• Fasten chains and lay them flat, or hang them, to prevent tangles.
• Store away from heat, direct sun and humidity.
• When travelling, use a padded jewellery roll or case and keep it with you.

When to see a jeweller

• A stone moves, rattles or catches on fabric.
• A claw looks bent, flattened or worn.
• A clasp does not close firmly.
• A chain has a stretched or damaged link.
• White gold has begun to show a warmer tone and needs re-plating.
• A ring no longer fits well and needs resizing.
• Any repair that involves heat, soldering or resetting a stone.

It is wise to have pieces you wear every day checked by a jeweller from time to time, even when nothing appears wrong.

For a private consultation, in person or by video, please visit our concierge.