Jewelry Care

Diamond Care

While a diamond is the hardest mineral known to man, it still requires special care. Regular cleanings are a must to maintain a diamond's brilliance. A solution of half-ammonia and half-cold water works just fine. Let your diamond soak for 30 minutes, then dry it with a lint-free cloth. There are those who say you can place your diamond in a glass of vodka to restore its sparkle. Everyday activity can be pretty rough on your jewelry, so be sure to have it checked every six months to ensure your diamonds are secure in their settings.


Metal Care

Different metals can require very different levels of care. While both tungsten and platinum are very durable, for example, tungsten needs little attention, while platinum is susceptible to scratches. It is recommended you have your platinum buffed every six months. You can remove build-up with jewelry cleaner or mild soap and water. And regular polishing can keep your silver from looking tarnished. Silver jewelry from Jared is sterling silver, which is damaged less easily than regular silver.
Gold is another metal that needs gentle care. Soap film easily builds on the surface of gold, so it's best to remove your gold jewelry before showering or using household cleaners or chemicals. Chlorine has also been known weaken gold, causing it to break more easily. Placing your gold jewelry in a solution containing a few drops of ammonia, mild detergent and warm water will bring back its shine. Rubbing alcohol can also be used to remove grease and body oil from gold jewelry.


Cultured Pearl Care

Cultured pearls are especially soft and vulnerable. They should be the last item you put on and the first item you take off. Makeup, hair spray, perfume and other chemicals are very harmful to cultured pearls. It's a good idea to wipe them with a clean, damp cloth after each use to remove build-up, dirt and oil. Also, make sure your cultured pearls are completely dry before putting them away. Hot water, steam, extreme temperatures and ultrasonic cleaners should be avoided as well.  Upon inspection, some jewelers may also recommend restringing your cultured pearls.


Color Stone Care

Every color stone has its unique colors and qualities, and therefore, care is different for each one. A good reference is the Moh's Scale of Hardness, which measures durability of materials with 10 (diamonds) being the hardest. In some cases, the more durable a stone is, the less likely they are to become damaged in daily activity or regular cleaning.  Most color stones can be cleaned in soapy water, but special care is required for certain stones.

Emeralds are treated with oils and waxes to improve clarity. This enhancement is not permanent, and long exposure to soapy water can remove the protective coating. Also, emeralds should not be exposed to hot water, steamers and ultrasonic cleaners.

Tanzanite is 6 1/2 on the Moh's Scale, making it a very brittle stone.  Delicate washing in warm water with mild soap is suitable, but it should never be exposed to vigorous activity, ultrasonic cleaners and excessive temperatures. Extreme temperatures can actually change the color of some stones.

Also, unlike other color stones, opal is not internally solid but rather gelatinous. It ranks about a six on the hardness scale and is very susceptible to scratches and cracks. Impacts should be avoided as well as ultrasonic cleaners, excessive heat, hot water and steam. It is recommended to clean opals with baby or olive oil to prevent them from drying out.

Steam cleaners should also be avoided for garnet, amethyst, peridot, tourmaline and citrine. If you are uncertain about the right care for your stone, visit our Color Stone Guide for more information.