Whether inherited, gifted, or purchased yourself, antique and vintage jewelry are valuable items to own. These wearable pieces of history have a special charm and appeal that make them stand out from modern designs. Due to their age, these one-of-a-kind heirlooms must be properly cared for to preserve their timeless beauty and lifespan. Here are a few key steps to keeping your treasures in good condition.
Tips for Maintaining Your Heirloom Jewelry Pieces
Use Proper Cleaning Practices
Just as with any jewelry, it’s important to use the right tools and take a gentle approach when cleaning your antique and vintage pieces. Warm, soapy water and a soft toothbrush will help eliminate dirt and debris. Brush in a slow circular motion while applying light pressure. It’s best not to submerge items for any length of time, as liquid can be damaging to some materials.
After cleaning, make sure the piece is rinsed and dried thoroughly to keep soap residue from forming. Also, steer clear of ultrasonic cleaners. The vibrations from these machines could end up harming older jewelry.
Reconsider Polishing
Over the years, antique and vintage jewelry will build up a patina, giving pieces extra character and charm. If you wish to retain this aged appearance, you’ll want to refrain from polishing your items. Even done gently, polishing can remove the patina, leaving your older jewelry looking shiny and brand new. Instead, you can get rid of tarnish with a thin pencil eraser.
Avoid Damaging Elements
While you shouldn’t be afraid to wear your precious heirloom jewelry, there are certain times it’s better to leave it stored in a safe place. You want to limit exposure to things like sweat, harsh cleaning chemicals, chlorinated or saltwater, and dirt. Thus, you should take pieces off before engaging in activities such as exercising, swimming, and gardening to prevent extra wear and tear.
Get Regular Checkups
To ensure your antique and vintage jewelry stays in great shape, it’s wise to have it professionally inspected at least once a year. Your jeweler will check for loose stones, broken clasps, worn out prongs, and any other signs of wear that should be addressed. This will provide insight into repairs you might need to consider having done to reduce the risk of losing a valuable stone or the entire piece. They can also elaborate further on proper cleaning techniques for your specific item.
At Steve’s Precious Metals, we’re committed to helping maintain the longevity of your antique and vintage jewelry. Our specialists are knowledgeable in the care and repair of these cherished items and take pride in the quality of service we provide. Our store in Redding, CA also carries a variety of stunning older pieces that are waiting to find a new home. Call (530) 223-0170 to learn more or visit our website to shop.