As part of our ongoing jewellery FAQ series, we explore the essential topic of jewellery care, cleaning, storing and maintenance. Fine jewellery is more than just an accessory; it’s a legacy that connects generations and commemorates special moments. To help you maintain the lustre of your cherished pieces, we spoke with Camille Sze, president of K S Sze & Sons, a century-old family jeweller in Hong Kong. As the proud granddaughter of the founder, Sze brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of jewellery care.
Here, she shares with Tatler her expertise on the ins and outs of jewellery care, from professional cleaning to at-home maintenance.
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A model wearing jewellery by K S Sze & Sons (Photo: courtesy of K S Sze & Sons)
How often should I have my jewellery professionally cleaned?We recommend professional assessment of high jewellery pieces after two to three social occasions. It allows the jewellery to be checked for loose clasps, any loosening setting that may be easily repaired and can prevent loss. We encourage jewellery lovers to reach out to professional jewellers every three to six months. An engagement ring will continue to shine with brilliance with regular cleaning.
What are the best home remedies for cleaning jewellery?Take a smidge of dishwashing soap mixed with warm water in a bowl. Then dip your soft cloth (usually a courtesy accessory that comes with high jewellery or upon request by jewellers.) And yes, even the soft cloth you use for your sunglasses will do. You want this self-cleaning cloth to be on the barely damp side as opposed to soaked in suds. In a well-lit setting, gently remove residue that will cling to jewellery via human oils. Try to remove sweat. Softly remove make-up. Always polish gently. Try to think of this cloth-to-gem practice the way one might gently dust an orchid.
How can I store my jewellery to prevent tarnish and damage?Keep it out of direct sunlight, boxed flat in a box or pouch. We hold a strong belief that the jewellery you love should be worn as often as you like to wear it. Try not to overcomplicate your fine jewellery storing system to the point that feels too out of the way to celebrate through wearing.
What are the best practices for jewellery care when it comes to gold jewellery?Clean gold jewellery regularly using a mild soap and warm water. Gently scrub with a soft-bristle brush. Store gold jewellery separately from other metals to prevent scratches and corrosion. Keep it in a cool, dry place away from moisture, chemicals, and sunlight.
How do you take care of chain jewellery?Store chains separately in jewellery boxes or pouches to prevent them from getting tangled. Always fasten clasps securely when putting on and taking off chains. Avoid putting excessive stress on clasps, as this can cause them to break over time. At K S Sze & Sons Jewels, clients will sometimes visit with a large baking ziplock bag, and a tangle of fine jewellery chains will emerge—like Chow Mein. With the recent trend of layering chains, jewellery lovers have found themselves in a bit of a tangle. If you’re someone on the go, we recommend hanging chains on a simple display bust or hanging chains on hooks. De-knotting a chain, for example, corrects the permanent bending of a link. Eventually, these bends in the metal may later lead to chainlink tears and later loss.
A model wearing jewellery by K S Sze & Sons (Photo: courtesy of K S Sze & Sons)
How can I make my jewellery last longer?Clean jewellery regularly using a mild soap and soft-bristle brush. This gentle cleaning helps maintain the piece’s lustre and prevents the buildup of oils and dirt. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners, harsh chemicals, or abrasives which can damage metals and stones. Have jewellery professionally cleaned and inspected every six to 12 months. Jewellers can use specialised techniques to deeply clean and revitalise pieces.
What are the dos and don’ts of jewellery care?Store jewellery properly, and use jewellery boxes, pouches, or trays to prevent scratches and tangles. Keep in a cool, dry place away from moisture, heat, and sunlight. Check clasps, prongs, and settings regularly for any looseness or wear and remember to take them to a jeweller for any needed repairs. This proactive approach can prevent the loss of stones or entire pieces due to worn settings or faulty clasps.
Avoid exposing your pieces to harsh chemicals, including those found in cleaning products and cosmetics. Remove jewellery before swimming, as chlorine can damage many materials. Be cautious when doing manual work—take off rings and bracelets to prevent scratches or bending. Finally, don’t wear the same pieces daily. This practice helps distribute wear and tear, maintaining the appearance of your entire collection for longer.
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