Jewelry Care

Caring for Your Gemstone Jewelry: Simple Tips to Keep It Beautiful

Gemstone jewelry is more than just an accessory—it’s a little piece of the Earth’s art, shaped and crafted into something you can wear and enjoy every day. With just a bit of care, your pieces can stay as stunning as the day you first put them on.

Here are some practical, no-fuss tips for cleaning and caring for your gemstone jewelry.

💎 General Care Tips

• Avoid harsh chemicals: Perfume, hairspray, cleaning agents, and even lotions can dull or damage your stones over time. Put your jewelry on last, after you've finished getting ready.

• Remove before activities: Take your jewelry off before swimming, exercising, gardening, or cleaning. (Excess sweat can damage many items on these necklaces.)

• Store it safely: Gemstones can scratch each other if stored together. Wrap pieces individually in soft cloth or use a divided jewelry box to keep them protected.

🧼 How to Clean Your Jewelry (Without Water 🚫)

Because my necklaces are strung on braided, flexible metal wire, they should never be submerged, soaked, or sprayed to be cleaned.

Here’s how to clean your pieces safely:

1. Use a soft, dry cloth – A jewelry polishing cloth works well for gently wiping down metal components and beads.

2. Use a small, soft-bristled paintbrush – Ideal for textured stones, grooves, or detailed areas where dust may collect over time. This allows you to gently clean without using moisture.

3. Avoid all liquids, soaps, or cleaning solutions – These can damage both the stones and the structure of the piece, especially materials like turquoise, malachite, opal, or bone. If absolutely needed, a cotton swab very lightly dampened can be used for careful spot-cleaning.

4. Handle with clean, dry hands – Oils and residues from skin or lotion can build up and affect the appearance of certain stones. A quick dry wipe after wear helps preserve your piece long term.

⚠️ Stones That Need Extra Care

Some stones are more delicate than others. If you own jewelry with any of the following, treat them with extra TLC:

• Turquoise – Porous and sensitive to moisture and oils. Do not soak; use only a very lightly dampened cloth if needed.

• Malachite – Easily damaged by acids or water. Wipe gently and avoid cleaners.

• Labradorite – Beautiful but soft. Avoid bumping, dropping, or friction.

• Opal – Moisture-sensitive and delicate; avoid pressure, oils, and heat.

🧡 Jewelry That Tells a Story

Whether it’s a vibrant strand of turquoise or a bold copper-wrapped pendant, your jewelry deserves care not just because it’s beautiful—but because it’s a reflection of your unique style. A few simple habits can help your pieces stay lovely for years to come.

If you ever have questions about how to care for a specific piece from my collection, feel free to reach out. I’m always happy to help – hello@zoewrightjewelry.com