As a third generation family business, Whidby Jewelers has offered the highest quality jewelry for over a century. Since opening our doors in 1901, we’ve seen it all. Through the decades we’ve helped our customers preserve their most prized possessions. We want to help you safeguard your collection, too. So, if you want your treasures to shine through generations, check out our tried and true fine jewelry care tips below.
The Basics
Before we dive into the specifics, let’s touch on some general care tips we’ve used over the years to ensure our products stay the best quality possible.
First, depending on the type of jewelry you have, you should consider storing your pieces in felt-lined jewelry boxes to avoid scratching. These containers are a great option for storage because they remain cool and dry, which are ideal conditions for most types of metals and stones. Separating your jewelry into individual boxes will also prevent it from tangling. Most of our jewelry comes in individual boxes anyway, so you wouldn’t have to go out of your way to secure this option.
Second, you should avoid exposing your jewelry to anything that could cause it damage. For example, get ready before you put your pieces on to avoid exposing them to the chemicals in beauty products. By adding a few extra steps to your prep throughout the day, you can make sure your gorgeous new accessories stay in perfect condition.
If you’re still unsure about how to store or care for your prized pieces, ask a Whidby team member. We would be happy to help.
Polish the Good Silver
Nowadays, silver jewelry is a very popular option due to its light and durable properties. What most don’t know is that this precious metal is sensitive to many of the conditions we encounter on a daily basis. If not worn regularly, silver can tarnish with air exposure. If you want your silver jewelry to last, store it alone in an airtight bag or wrap it in a soft piece of cloth or felt. Polishing silver with an abrasive product like paper towels or tissues can scratch it. To maintain its beautiful shine, buff your silver jewelry with a non-abrasive polishing cloth.
Go for the Gold (and Platinum)
You know when you’re looking through your grandma’s estate jewelry and you find an antique, greenish piece of gold jewelry? Fine metals are more sensitive than you think. Over time, gold and platinum jewelry will patina. When metals patina they grow a thin, matte layer of green or brown discoloration due to air exposure. To avoid this, regularly polish your gold and platinum jewelry. Additionally, if you own gold or platinum jewelry that has prong-set gemstones, bring your jewelry to Whidby’s to have it checked and retipped once every six months. We want to make sure everything is in good, working condition so your pieces will last a lifetime.
Set in Stone
Taking care of your gemstone jewelry is all about knowing the properties of the gemstones. For example, softer gemstones like emerald, tanzanite, topaz, opal and moonstone should be cleaned with a simple solution made of dish soap and warm water. More delicate stones like pearls require a higher level of attention in the care department. It’s best to occasionally wipe pearl jewelry off with a soft cloth and warm, soapy water. If in doubt, be sure to ask a team member at Whidby’s how to take care of your specific gemstone jewelry.
Carats of Care
While they might be the hardest gemstone found, diamonds aren’t unbreakable. Although it’s rare, it is possible to chip to this shining gemstone if not handled and cleaned properly. In order to make sure they stay as bright and clear as day one, you should bring your diamonds in to be checked about every six months. On top of getting them quality checked twice a year, we recommend you avoid allowing your diamonds to come in contact with chemicals, oils and other unnatural products. Exposing this brilliant gemstone to things like lotion or chlorine could affect its quality in the long run.
Keep It Good as New with Whidby’s
Taking care of your fine jewelry is the best way to ensure it lasts lifelong. On top of this, it’s a smart idea to have your pieces professionally cleaned and inspected every six months. At Whidby Jewelers, we offer these services so we can guarantee your priceless accessories stay looking as shiny and new as they did when you bought them. So next time you stop by our West Jefferson Street location, ask one of our expert team members about our cleaning services.