Jewellery Cleaning & Storage Guide

How to Clean, Store and Protect Your Jewellery Safely

Jewellery is designed to be worn and enjoyed, but everyday life can take its toll. Knowing how to clean and store your jewellery properly will help preserve its beauty, prevent damage, and extend its lifespan.

This guide explains how to care for your jewellery at home, what to avoid, and when it’s best to seek professional help.

Cleaning Your Jewellery Safely

Everyday Cleaning (Safe for Most Jewellery)

For regular maintenance:

  • Wipe jewellery gently with a soft, lint-free cloth

  • This removes fingerprints, oils and light dirt

  • Ideal after wearing, especially for rings and bracelets

Avoid tissues or paper towels, which can scratch metal surfaces.

Cleaning Metal Jewellery (Gold, Silver & Platinum)

You can safely clean most metal jewellery at home if it does not contain delicate gemstones.

Method:

  1. Use lukewarm water and a small amount of mild washing-up liquid

  2. Gently clean with a soft toothbrush or cloth

  3. Rinse thoroughly

  4. Dry completely with a soft cloth

This works well for:

  • Plain gold jewellery

  • Sterling silver

  • Platinum

  • Diamond jewellery (if settings are secure)

Cleaning Jewellery with Gemstones

Not all gemstones should be cleaned in the same way.

Generally Safe (with care):

  • Diamonds

  • Sapphires

  • Rubies

These can usually tolerate gentle cleaning with mild soap and water.

Handle With Extra Care:

  • Emeralds

  • Opals

  • Pearls

  • Turquoise

  • Amber

  • Moonstone

For these stones:

  • Avoid soaking

  • Do not use brushes

  • Clean gently with a barely damp cloth only

If you’re unsure, it’s safest not to clean the piece yourself.

What to Avoid When Cleaning Jewellery

Never use:

  • Harsh chemicals or bleach

  • Jewellery dips (unless manufacturer-approved)

  • Ultrasonic cleaners on delicate stones

  • Toothpaste or baking soda

  • Alcohol or solvents

These can cause:

  • Discolouration

  • Surface damage

  • Loose stones

  • Permanent gemstone deterioration

Professional Jewellery Cleaning

Professional cleaning is recommended if:

  • Stones feel loose

  • Jewellery is antique or sentimental

  • There is heavy tarnish or ingrained dirt

  • You’re unsure how the piece should be cleaned

A jeweller can also check settings at the same time — helping prevent stone loss.

How to Store Your Jewellery Properly

Correct storage is just as important as cleaning.

Store Pieces Separately

  • Store items individually to prevent scratching

  • Diamonds can scratch other jewellery — and each other

  • Use pouches, compartments or individual boxes

Avoid Moisture, Heat & Sunlight

  • Store jewellery in a cool, dry place

  • Avoid bathrooms due to humidity

  • Prolonged sunlight can fade some gemstones

Silica gel sachets can help reduce moisture in jewellery boxes.

Prevent Tangling & Damage

  • Fasten necklaces before storing

  • Lay chains flat or hang individually

  • Avoid piling jewellery together

Travelling With Jewellery

  • Use a padded travel jewellery case

  • Keep pieces separated

  • Avoid carrying valuable jewellery loose in bags

Jewellery Storage ideas

Storing Different Types of Jewellery

Silver Jewellery

  • Store in airtight bags or boxes if possible

  • Helps slow down tarnishing

  • Anti-tarnish strips can be useful

Gold Jewellery

  • Less prone to tarnish but can scratch easily

  • Store separately from other metals

Pearl Jewellery

  • Store flat in a soft pouch

  • Do not seal in airtight containers

  • Pearls need some moisture to stay healthy

When to Seek Professional Help

Take your jewellery to a professional if:

  • Stones move or rattle

  • Clasps feel loose or worn

  • Chains kink or weaken

  • Jewellery has been damaged or bent

Early attention often prevents more expensive repairs later.

Frequently Asked Questions About Jewellery Cleaning & Storage

Can I clean all jewellery at home?

No. Some gemstones and antique pieces require specialist care. If unsure, it’s best not to clean it yourself.

How often should I clean my jewellery?

Light cleaning with a soft cloth can be done after wearing. Deeper cleaning should only be done occasionally.

Is it safe to sleep or shower in jewellery?

It’s best to remove jewellery before sleeping, showering or swimming to prevent wear, damage and exposure to chemicals.

Does silver tarnish faster if worn?

Silver tarnishes more when exposed to air and moisture. Wearing it regularly can actually help reduce tarnish if cleaned properly.

How should I store jewellery long-term?

Clean it first, store pieces separately, keep them dry, and avoid direct sunlight.

Final Thoughts

Gentle cleaning, careful storage and knowing when to seek professional help will keep your jewellery looking beautiful for years to come.

If you’re ever unsure how to clean or store a particular piece, a professional jeweller can advise you and help protect both its appearance and its value.