How to Clean and Care for Your Fine Jewellery at Home

How to Clean and Care for Your Fine Jewellery at Home

Fine jewellery is made to be worn and loved, but everyday life leaves its mark: hand cream, soap and natural skin oils quickly dull a diamond’s sparkle. The good news is that a few gentle habits will keep your pieces looking beautiful for generations.

Cleaning diamonds, gold and platinum

  1. Fill a small bowl with warm (not hot) water and add a few drops of mild washing-up liquid.
  2. Soak your jewellery for 15–20 minutes to loosen everyday build-up.
  3. Gently brush behind the stone and around the claws with a very soft toothbrush.
  4. Rinse under lukewarm running water — with the plug in!
  5. Pat dry with a lint-free cloth and let it air-dry completely.

Caring for pearls, opals and softer gems

Pearls, opals, emeralds and turquoise need a lighter touch. Wipe pearls with a soft, slightly damp cloth after wearing and never soak them. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, steam and sudden temperature changes for these stones. A simple rule for pearls: last on, first off — put them on after perfume and hairspray, and take them off first.

What to avoid

  • Chlorine in swimming pools and hot tubs, which can weaken gold alloys
  • Household cleaning products, bleach and abrasive powders
  • Toothpaste, which can leave fine scratches on metal
  • Gym sessions and gardening, where knocks can loosen stones

Storing your jewellery

Diamonds can scratch other jewellery — and even other diamonds — so store each piece separately in a soft pouch or a lined box with compartments. Fasten chains to prevent tangling, and keep pearls flat rather than hanging, so the silk does not stretch.

Book an annual check-up

Once a year, have a jeweller inspect claws, clasps and settings. Small signs of wear are easy to fix before a stone becomes loose. Every Hatton Diamond piece includes a complimentary clean and claw check in its first year — simply get in touch to arrange yours.

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