Shine Bright Forever: Borivali West Jewellers’ Guide to Jewellery Preservation

Om Jewellers, the best in Borivali, understand the importance of preserving these precious items that are not just accessories but heirlooms and stories passed down through generations. This guide is a testament to our commitment to helping you maintain the timeless beauty of your cherished pieces, from casual adornments to special occasion masterpieces.

Understanding Indian Jewellery and Its Preservation

Indian jewellery, with its diverse materials, designs, and sentimental value, requires a nuanced approach to preservation. From the gold and diamond jewellery that graces weddings and festivals to the silver and semi-precious stones that adorn daily wear, each piece demands care and attention to ensure its longevity.

Gold Jewellery

For gold jewellery, a gentle cleansing routine using mild dish soap mixed with warm water can do wonders. Using a soft-bristle brush to reach into those intricate crevices helps eliminate dirt, ensuring your gold pieces remain as resplendent as ever. Following a thorough cleanse, drying your gold items with a soft cloth is crucial to prevent any tarnish from setting in. It’s wise to avoid the use of harsh chemicals or rough materials for cleaning, as these can mar the surface of your gold jewellery. Equally important is to store gold pieces separately from other metals to prevent unwanted scratches or reactions that could tarnish their glow.

Diamond Jewellery

Diamond jewellery, with its unrivalled sparkle, benefits greatly from a cleaning solution made of ammonia mixed with water. This blend works effectively on diamonds encased in platinum or gold settings. A brief soak, about 20-30 minutes, followed by a gentle brushing with a soft toothbrush, can bring back the sparkle without harming the setting.

Silver Jewellery

Silver jewellery possesses a unique lustre that, unfortunately, is prone to tarnishing. Using a special silver cloth for polishing can help maintain its shine. For a deeper clean, a paste made from baking soda and water applied with a soft, lint-free cloth can effectively remove tarnish. Storing silver jewellery in anti-tarnish pouches or alongside silica gel packs can significantly reduce exposure to air and moisture, helping to maintain its gleaming surface. Avoiding environments with salty air or sulphur and refraining from using rubber bands for storage can also prevent tarnish.

Pearl and Coral Jewellery

Pearl and coral jewellery require a touch of gentleness in their care. Simply wiping these pieces with a damp cloth after wear can remove substances that might dull their natural lustre. Storing them in a soft bag separately from other pieces can keep them scratch-free. Given their porous nature, it’s crucial to avoid acidic cleaners and soaking in water, as these practices can damage the delicate surface of pearls and corals or weaken their threading.

Gemstones (Emeralds, Sapphires, Rubies)

For those adorned with gemstones such as emeralds, sapphires, and rubies, a simple solution of warm soapy water used alongside a soft brush can keep them clean without compromising their integrity. Many of these gemstones come with treatments or natural inclusions that necessitate gentle care. Thorough drying and separate storage are key to preventing scratches and preserving their vibrancy. It’s vital to protect these gems from sudden temperature changes and harsh chemicals, which can cause damage.

Daily Wear and Casual Jewellery

For pieces that accompany you in your day-to-day life, regular maintenance is key. After wearing, gently wipe your jewellery with a soft, lint-free cloth to remove oils and sweat that can dull the surface.

Special Occasion Jewellery

Heavier, more intricate pieces often used in weddings and grand events demand a bit more care. After each wear, inspect for any loose stones or settings and clean gently with a mild soap solution using a soft-bristled brush. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth. These pieces should be stored flat in individual boxes with soft padding to maintain their shape and protect delicate designs.

Flimsy and Intricate Pieces

Intricate filigree work, delicate chains, and flimsy designs are especially susceptible to damage. When not in use, hang chains on hooks to prevent tangling and store items with delicate work in separate compartments.

Climate Considerations

India’s varied climate, from the humid coastal regions to the dry northern plains, poses unique challenges for jewellery preservation. Humidity can tarnish and corrode, while dry air can cause materials like pearls to dry out and crack. It’s crucial to store your jewellery in a controlled environment, preferably in a fabric-lined jewellery box that keeps moisture at bay. Silica gel packets can be a boon in humid conditions, absorbing excess moisture and protecting your treasures.

Professional Cleaning

While regular at-home care is crucial, certain conditions and materials require professional attention. We recommend an annual check-up for your precious pieces, allowing experts to assess and address issues like loose settings or worn threads in pearl necklaces. It is best not to resort to DIY on your treasured jewels when you can get help from professionals like us. Om Jewellers offers specialised cleaning and repair services to maintain the integrity and beauty of your jewellery.

Om Jewellers: Your Preservation Partner

At Om Jewellers, we’re not just about selling jewellery; we’re about ensuring its care through generations. Our cleaning service is designed to rejuvenate your jewels, making them sparkle like new. For pieces requiring more than just a simple clean, our restoration services can repair wear and tear, ensuring your jewellery remains as stunning as the day it was purchased.

Preserving Indian jewellery is an art and a science, blending careful maintenance with the joy of wearing and celebrating these beautiful creations. At Om Jewellers, Borivali West, we’re committed to being part of your jewellery journey, offering expert advice and services to ensure your pieces remain as meaningful and beautiful as the moments they commemorate.

For expert advice on jewellery care and to explore our curated collection, call (226) 158-7000. Visit our stores in Borivali, Mulund, or Bandra for an exclusive experience.