As the weather cools down and warm knitwear becomes a daily essential, autumn brings a few unique challenges for keeping your fine jewellery looking its best. Cold air, heavy layers, and rich hand creams can affect how your pieces look and feel.
Here are four simple, practical steps to protect and care for your jewellery this season.
1. Watch Out for Sweater Snags
Thick knits, scarves, and wool sweaters are notorious for catching on raised gemstone prongs, delicate chain links, and intricate ring settings.
The Rule of Thumb: Put your jewellery on last when getting dressed, and take it off first when changing.
Check Your Prongs: If you feel a piece catching on clothing, stop immediately and inspect the setting. Loose or bent prongs should be inspected by a professional before continuing to wear the piece to avoid losing a gemstone.
2. Protect Pieces from Heavy Creams and Lotions
Autumn skin care usually calls for thicker creams and oils. While great for your skin, heavy lotions leave a film on diamonds, precious stones, and metals, dulling their natural sparkle.
Apply hand creams, body oils, and lotions first, allowing them to absorb completely before putting on rings or bracelets.
Avoid applying rich creams directly over rings or stone settings.
3. Gentle At-Home Cleaning Method
You do not need harsh chemicals or specialized machines to keep fine jewellery clean. A safe at-home cleaning method works effectively for most gold, platinum, and diamond pieces:
Soak: Fill a bowl with warm water and add a few drops of mild dish soap. Let your pieces soak for 10 to 15 minutes.
Brush Gently: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush (preferably a baby toothbrush) to gently remove buildup under stones and behind settings.
Rinse & Dry: Rinse thoroughly in clean water (ensure the drain is plugged!) and pat dry with a lint-free soft cloth.
Note: Organic or porous stones like pearls and opals require extra care and should never be submerged in soapy water or scrubbed vigorously.
4. Proper Storage When Not in Use
When taking off rings, necklaces, or bracelets, avoid tossing them together in a single dish or drawer. Harder stones like diamonds can easily scratch softer gems or precious metals when stored together.
Store each piece in individual compartments, original soft pouches, or lined jewellery boxes.
Keep chains fastened and laid flat or hung upright to prevent tangles and knots.
Keep Your Jewellery Shining Year-Round
Taking a few minutes to clean and store your jewellery properly ensures it stays brilliant throughout the autumn season and beyond. If you need a professional inspection, prong check, or deep clean, visit us in-store at MH2 Diamond—we are always happy to help you keep your favourite pieces in top condition.
