Look for bottles or jars of jewelry cleaners that specifically say they are safe for costume jewelry.
Read labels to be sure that the product doesn't contain ammonia, vinegar, acid or alcohol. These substances can be too harsh for delicate materials. If your piece contains pearls or stones, be sure that the cleaner indicates that it will not harm them.
Buy a small, extra-soft toothbrush that you can use to clean your jewelry.
Keep a very soft cloth that can also be used to wipe your pieces and polish them to a shine.
Always dry your jewelry after washing, because moisture can damage surfaces and cause them to rust or become pitted.
Store your costume jewelry separately in soft pouches or boxes so the pieces don't scratch each other.
Keep your jewelry away from dust, which can be damaging to the stones.
Just as icing is the last thing you put on the cake, so should it be with your costume jewelry. Simply put, your faux pieces need to be the LAST thing you put on just prior to leaving the house in the morning, and the FIRST thing you remove upon arriving home in the evening. Keeping this practice will mean less wear/tear on your jewelry, giving you longer use out of it. Put your piece(s) away ASAP to avoid any damage or harm to it. Also, by putting it where it belongs will ensure its being there when you need to wear it again.
Spray free zone: Do not spray any perfumes or hairsprays after you've put your faux jewerly on, because this will alter the finish on the piece. It could change colors or get ruined somehow, and you wouldn't want this for your new investment. Some costume jewelry is quite pricey!
Lotion is a no-no: Do not wear lotion around your neck or wrists when wearing costume jewelry for the same reasons listed above--it could ruin the finish on the necklaces/bracelets. Try not to touch or let others touch your jewelry, as the oil from your/their fingers will transfer onto the pieces. Remembering to occasionally use a cotton cloth to wipe down the jewelry is a good idea, but you don't have to be overly fanatical about this.
Take off before you wash up: Removal of faux rings prior to hand washing would also be a good preventive measure for longer-lasting wear of your new ring(s). Know that by following these simple steps, you will have many happy years together with your new jewelry additions.
If you store jewelry in plastic bags, this will enable the jewelry to resist moisture. Wrap loosely and store in boxes, drawers, or plastic containers. If displayed in an open area, cover with a soft cloth that will not catch the prongs.
Do not place the jewelry close together. This can shift the prongs and loosen the stones.
Like glassware, extreme heat and cold creates damage. Changing environments may also affect the jewelry.
When storing earrings, place them on earring holders, if possible. If not, lay them flat.
Bracelets and necklaces should be flat with stones turned upward.
Do not place the jewelry in water. If water is between the stone and backing, it can tarnish the stone. Gently clean with a Q-tip and glass cleaner, watching that the prongs do not catch. Depending on the piece, you may want to use dish washing soap. Then use a jeweler’s cloth or a soft cloth to polish. Store in an area that is not damp. Weather can ruin the finish, and extreme heat or cold can loosen the stones.
Remove jewelry before sports, swimming in salt water, etc.
Contact Me: Olga Renteria [email protected] Brownsville, TX 78521 956-346-6730