HOW TO CLEAN JEWELLERY
Over time, jewellery loses its lustre, which is why our most delicate accessories require careful maintenance to keep them in their original state at all times. As our Founder Damian Alexander-Du'bel says, "Performing certain simple tasks will help you to always keep your jewellery looking like it is the first time it's been worn."
Maintenance advice
Hair spray and perfumes can damage jewellery. We recommend wearing your jewellery once you have applied these products. The same goes for sweat, so remember to take off your jewellery before doing any physical activity that will cause a lot of sweating.
We also recommend removing your rings when you wash your hands or apply lotions, so you can keep your jewellery free of dirt.
Mention that how you store your jewels is very important. Mixing silver and gold-plated for too long can result in tarnishing, so we advise to store the same materials with each other.
Cleaning advice
When washing your Bella Mayford jewellery, it's a good idea to keep the chlorine out of your reach, as the piece can become discoloured, and if you're planning to do it in the sink, don't forget to plug up the drain!
We have to take into account that each piece of jewellery is different from another and will have to be cleaned differently. Here are some cleaning tips depending on the material:
Gold and silver are durable materials, but, over time, they often darken or become dull. Whether it's rings, bracelets or chains, there are methods to make the colour and shine of your jewellery go back to the way it was.
When it comes to cleaning gold jewellery, the best thing to do is to take a warm water bath, pouring a few drops of mild detergent into a small container. Place the jewellery in a small strainer, and put it in the container to soak for about ten minutes. Then it would be best if you cleaned the cracks in each piece with a soft-bristled toothbrush; the more, the better. Return each piece to the strainer, rinse under running water and dry with a soft cloth.
If your gold jewellery is very dirty, you can add a couple of drops of ammonia, but do not abuse this substance, as it could damage the metal alloy or the pearls/stones embedded in a piece of jewellery.
Silver is a less resistant metal than gold, but not less popular, and if you want to clean and avoid tarnishing your silver pieces, you have two options you can do at home:
1. For parts that are opaque, transparent or starting to discolour: mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water and immerse in a soft cloth. Rub the jewellery, then rinse with cold water and polish with a cloth until dry.
2. For removing tarnish: mix three parts baking soda with one part water. Wet the silver and apply the cleaner with a soft, lint-free cloth. Work the paste into the cracks, turning the cloth as it turns grey, then rinse and dry. Avoid rubbing silver jewellery too much, as this could wear away the finish.
We have to add that silver gets brighter the more it is worn (friction decreases tarnish), so don't leave it in your jewellery box!
Although silver and gold are very common in our jewellery boxes, we do not forget the other materials that can be part of our collection, and that also need care:
Cleaning opaque pearls:
Because they are so porous, pearls quickly lose their lustre. Whether they are real or replica, you must clean them carefully. First, put the string on a soft cloth. Dip a small, clean makeup brush in a mixture of warm water and a little shampoo, and check each pearl. Finally, rinse the pearls with a clean, damp cloth and wring them well. Allow the string to dry completely to prevent the string from stretching.
Cleaning gemstones:
Many natural precious stones are treated or improved and traditionally accepted from the jewellery industry (except for diamonds). These treatments can affect how your coloured gemstone jewellery should be cleaned and cared for. In these cases, it is best to consult your jeweller, either to have him clean it himself or to give us advice on how to do so.
Generally, emeralds, rubies and sapphires should be cleaned after use with a clean, slightly damp cloth. This will ensure that they are always clean and maintenance-free.
Afterwards, and once every two years, you should take them to your jeweller and have them professionally maintained.
Don't forget that if you have any significant doubts, you should go to your trusted jeweller, who will advise you on how to clean the jewel. As a professional, he will also be able to do this work for you effectively and without danger to your jewellery.
And last but not least, deep clean your Bella Mayford jewellery every few months. Being gentle is key!