Caring for Fine Jewelry
While our jewelry was created to last a lifetime, there are some factors that can contribute to the everyday wear and tear of your fine jewelry.
Overview
Caring for fine jewelry is simple: clean it at home by soaking in lukewarm water with a drop of mild dish soap for 10–15 minutes, then gently brush with a soft toothbrush, rinse, and pat dry (pearls should only be wiped, never soaked). Store pieces separately in soft pouches or a lined box, away from humidity and sunlight, and take jewelry off before swimming, exercising, cleaning, or applying lotions and perfume. Have your jewelry professionally inspected and cleaned at least once a year — Mead Jewelers in Enid is happy to help.
Key facts
- Clean most jewelry at home with lukewarm water and a drop of mild dish soap, then a soft brush.
- Pearls should only be wiped with a damp cloth — never soaked.
- Store pieces separately in soft pouches or a lined box, away from humidity and sunlight.
- Take jewelry off before swimming, exercising, gardening, or applying lotions and perfume.
- Have jewelry professionally inspected and cleaned at least once a year.
- Mead Jewelers in Enid offers professional cleaning and inspection — serving since 1968.
Keep Your Treasures Beautiful
Taking care of your jewelry keeps it sparkling and lets you enjoy it for years to come. With a few simple habits, you can protect your favorite rings, necklaces, and bracelets from damage, dullness, or loss. For details about caring for specific types, check out our guides on diamond cleaning and gemstone cleaning.
How to Clean Fine Jewelry
- Fill a small bowl with lukewarm water and a drop of mild dish soap.
- Let your jewelry soak for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Gently brush each piece with a soft toothbrush, especially around prongs and settings.
- Rinse well with clean water to remove all soap.
- Pat dry with a lint-free cloth and let your jewelry air dry before storing.
Pro Tip
Pearls and softer gemstones need special care. Never soak them, just wipe gently with a damp cloth. If your jewelry includes different stones or metals, always follow the cleaning instructions for the most delicate material. Have questions? Contact us for personalized advice.
Storage and Daily Care
Store jewelry separately in a soft pouch or lined box, and remove it before swimming, cleaning, or exercising. Put on lotions, perfumes, and hair products before your jewelry to help avoid residue buildup. For more information on storage and precious metals, visit our Precious Metals guide.
Fine Jewelry Care: Do’s
- Store each piece in a soft pouch or lined jewelry box.
- Remove jewelry before swimming, cleaning, exercising, or gardening.
- Get your jewelry inspected and professionally cleaned at least once a year—consider making an appointment for a checkup.
- Check for loose stones, prongs, or clasps regularly.
Fine Jewelry Care: Don'ts
- Use harsh chemicals, bleach, or toothpaste to clean jewelry.
- Expose jewelry to high heat, humidity, or direct sunlight for long periods.
- Wear jewelry while applying lotions, perfumes, or hair products.
- Store jewelry in humid bathrooms or in direct sunlight.