So many clients consistently ask me how to care for their jewelry, so I thought it would be a good idea to talk about it.

I would like to start by saying the jewelry that I design is manufactured in NYC. I take pride in constructing my jewelry to last and withstand everyday wear, but there are some things you can do to help keep it looking beautiful. Avoid physical tasks when wearing your jewelry, so damage does not occur. Apply cosmetics, hair spray, perfume and lotions before putting your jewelry on, to avoid damage from certain chemicals in these products. Remove your jewelry when showering to avoid soap build up, which could make your metal and stones look cloudy.

The best results to keep your sterling silver and gold jewelry looking clean is to use a treated polishing cloth, which will clean and bring the shine back to your silver or gold. Do not use paper towel it can scratch the metal. If your jewelry has dirt and soap build up its best to clean it first with warm water, mild soap and a soft toothbrush. This is good for your metal and also the diamonds and gemstones in your jewelry . Never soak pearls, opals and turquoise in water just dampen a soft cloth and carefully dust over them.

If you don't wear your silver and gold jewelry often it can tarnish faster, so it is best to keep it covered in a fabric pouch or a covered box to preserve it better. 

Stay away from Ultrasonic cleaners because it can loosen your stones and damage gemstones that are not hard enough. Be extra diligent with EMERALDS  they are one of the softest fine gems with natural inclusions which can be disrupted if you clean or handle them too roughly. Emeralds are often oiled and fracture filled so if you use Ultrasonic or even steam cleaning it can cause damage and the oil or filling will sweat out of the stone and it will need to be retreated for appearance and and sometimes stability. So stick to the warm soapy water and a soft toothbrush for Emerald jewelry.  

I hope this was helpful. Please don't hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.