Hello dear friends and newcomers,
I’m Ken Bowers, the soul behind The Quarter Smith, your trusted source for the most exquisite estate jewelry. While our passion lies in curating pieces with history and elegance, we also feel strongly about helping you keep those treasures as stunning as the day you first laid eyes on them. So, today let’s talk about the proper care and maintenance of your estate jewelry.
The Beauty and Fragility of Time-Honored Pieces
Estate jewelry often comes from different periods, crafted with techniques and materials that might differ significantly from modern-day jewelry. What binds them all, however, is the need for love and care. Remember, these pieces have already survived the test of time; our job is to ensure they keep doing so.
Storage is Key
Proper storage isn’t just about a jewelry box; it’s about maintaining the integrity of your pieces. Each item should be stored separately to avoid scratching. For gemstone jewelry and pearls, soft-lined compartments are crucial. Pieces with softer gemstones like opal or turquoise should be kept in a humid-free environment to prevent cracking.
Cleaning with Care
Your cleaning approach should suit the jewelry type. For items featuring harder stones like diamonds, a gentle scrub with a toothbrush and soapy water usually does the trick. However, softer stones demand a softer touch—often a simple wipe with a moist cloth. Ultrasonic cleaners should only be used for diamonds and robust metals like gold; it can damage other delicate pieces.
Routine Check-ups
Consider taking your estate jewelry to a professional for regular check-ups. These experts can spot signs of wear and tear that you might overlook. It’s far better to invest in preemptive repairs than to cope with a gemstone that’s loosened and lost.
Handle with Clean Hands
Always ensure your hands are free from oils, creams, or dirt before touching your jewelry. Residue can accumulate in the crevices of your pieces, dulling their sparkle and potentially harming the material.
Know When to Remove Your Jewelry
Your estate jewelry is designed to be shown off, but there are times when it’s better left safely at home or in its storage. Activities like swimming, gardening, or even heavy lifting can scratch, damage or dirty your precious items. Remember, it’s not just about preserving the material but also the craftsmanship.
Keep an Eye on Temperature
Certain gemstones are sensitive to temperature changes. Extreme heat or cold can affect their color or even cause cracks. Always store your jewelry in a stable environment and be mindful when moving from one extreme to another.
Special Care for Pearls
Pearls demand their own set of care instructions. These delicate gems are highly susceptible to scratching and should be stored separately, preferably in a soft bag. After wearing, wipe them gently with a soft cloth to remove oils or residues. Also, pearls need moisture; do not store them in a too-dry environment, as they could crack.
Consider Insuring Your Pieces
For items of significant value—either monetary or sentimental—consider taking out an insurance policy. In the unfortunate event of theft or loss, you’ll be grateful for the security it provides.
Final Thoughts
While the heart of The Quarter Smith is to offer you curated, timeless pieces of estate jewelry, our commitment doesn’t end there. We’re as passionate about helping you maintain those pieces so they can continue to tell their story, now interwoven with your own.
Thank you for entrusting us not just with your business, but with the care of the treasures that add brilliance to your life’s journey. As always, we’re here to guide and support you every step of the way.
Until next time, take care and treasure your jewels as they’ve treasured their past.
Warm regards,
Ken Bowers
Owner, The Quarter Smith