Protect The Past: How To Prevent Damage To Your Antique Jewelry
If you have antique jewelry, you'll need to pay close attention to proper care. Antique jewelry is extremely delicate, but that doesn't mean you can't enjoy wearing it from time-to-time. However, it does mean that you need to take extra steps to prevent damage. Here are four steps that will protect your antique jewelry.
Focus on Careful Cleaning
When it comes to caring for your antique jewelry, you need to focus on the cleaning process. To protect your jewelry, you should give it a thorough cleaning after each use. If you keep your jewelry in storage, you should wash it at least once a month. Begin by placing a soft cloth on your counter. Fill a bowl with warm water and add a few drops of mild dish detergent. Dip a soft toothbrush into the solution and use it to carefully clean your jewelry. Place the jewelry on the cloth and allow it to sit for a minute or two. Rinse the jewelry with clear water and gently pat dry.
Reach for the Mineral Oil
Antique jewelry can dry out and become brittle if not properly protected. Mineral oil is the best way to protect your jewelry. About once a year, you'll need to apply a thin layer of mineral oil to all your antique jewelry; preferably after you've thoroughly cleaned it to remove dirt and grime. Dip a cotton applicator into the mineral oil and then apply it to the surface of your jewelry. Place your jewelry on a soft cloth and allow the oil to soak in overnight. In the morning, carefully wipe away the excess oil and then clean your jewelry with warm sudsy water. Be sure to thoroughly dry your jewelry and then allow it to continue air-drying for about 30-minutes before placing it back into storage.
Take Care With Storage
If you own antique jewelry, be sure to take care with the storage. Newer jewelry can be stored together inside your jewelry box. However, that practice can cause considerable damage to antique jewelry. To protect your antique jewelry, carefully wrap your pieces in a soft cloth, or store them in soft jewelry pouches. Once you have your antique jewelry wrapped in soft cloth, place them in a separate jewelry box or chest.
Ensure Annual Inspections
If you want to protect your antique jewelry, you need to ensure that your pieces receive annual inspections from a professional. Annual inspections can identify issues such as broken clasps, loose gems, or scratches. If your inspections do identify problems, be sure to have them repaired as soon as possible.