The Art of Jewellery Care
How To Care For Your Ola Gorie Jewellery
In a world where possessions are often treated as mere trinkets, disposable and interchangeable, there is something undeniably captivating about jewellery. These gleaming pieces of metal and stone can serve as symbols of love, markers of achievement, and talismans of good fortune.
The first step in caring for jewellery is to understand its nature.
Jewellery is made from various materials, each with its own properties and sensitivities. Gold, for example, is a soft metal that can easily be scratched or bent, while diamonds are the hardest substance known to man, but can still be chipped or damaged. On the other hand, Pearls, such as the ones found in our Meadowlark White Pearl Pendant, are organic gems that can be damaged by chemicals, heat, or friction.
To preserve the beauty of jewellery, it is important to clean it regularly and remove any dirt, oils, or other substances that can dull its appearance. This can be done with a soft cloth, a mild soap solution, or a specialized jewellery cleaning solution, depending on the type of jewellery. For example, gold can be cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft brush, while diamonds can withstand more powerful cleaning solutions.
At Ola Gorie, we usually recommend using silver or gold dip, available from most jewellers. Dip the jewellery in the solution; do not leave it to soak as this can have an adverse effect on the jewellery and it will need refinishing; rinse in cold water; pat dry with a towel and then to make sure it is completely dry use a hairdryer on a warm setting.
Another important aspect of jewellery care is storage.
When not in use, the jewellery should be stored in a safe place, away from light and moisture. Avoid storing multiple pieces of jewellery together, as this can cause scratches and tangles. If you have delicate pieces, such as pearl necklaces, consider using a jewellery box with compartments or a soft cloth pouch to prevent damage.
In addition to regular cleaning and storage, jewellery may also require periodic professional cleaning. This is especially important for precious stones, as they may become dull or discoloured over time.
A professional jeweller can gently clean and polish the stones, restoring their brilliance and beauty. Similarly, if your jewellery has become damaged, a professional jeweller can often repair it, saving it from being lost forever.
Finally, it is worth mentioning the importance of insuring your jewellery.
Jewellery can be costly, and it is important to protect it in case of loss, theft, or damage. At Ola Gorie, we always hope your jewellery will last a lifetime, through every moment of your life, highs and lows! There are many insurance options available, from stand-alone jewellery policies to coverage offered through homeowners' insurance.
Be sure to choose the option that best fits your needs and consider having your jewellery appraised to ensure it is adequately covered.
Over the years, we have worked hard to replace any missing Ola Gorie jewellery. In the case of one missing earring, we can sell earrings singly; you do not need to buy a pair. With some of our earrings, there is a difference between the left and right earrings, however, we will check this with you when you contact us. We almost always ask you to send up the ‘surviving' earring so we can be sure we are creating an exact match. We will also take the opportunity to clean and polish your old earring, so it matches the nice shiny new one.
Jewellery is a precious and personal item that deserves to be cared for with love and attention. By regularly cleaning, storing, and insuring your jewellery, you can ensure that it remains beautiful and cherished for years to come. The art of jewellery maintenance is a simple and rewarding task, one that will reward you with a lifetime of glittering memories.
Check out our Orkney Collection page for Ola Gorie jewellery that lasts a life time.
