How to Care for Sustainable Jewelry

How to Care for Sustainable Jewelry

At BRILLIANT CARATS, we believe that sustainable jewelry should be cherished and protected to maintain its beauty and integrity. Caring for eco-friendly materials, such as lab-grown diamonds, recycled metals, and ethically sourced gemstones, helps ensure they remain stunning for years to come. Here are the best practices for maintaining your sustainable jewelry and preserving its value. 

General Care Tips for Sustainable Jewelry

To keep your sustainable jewelry looking its best, there are a few simple steps you can incorporate into your routine:

  • Remove Jewelry During Physical Activities: Whether working out, cleaning, or doing outdoor activities, it’s best to remove jewelry to avoid scratches or damage.
  • Store Jewelry Properly: Use a soft, lined jewelry box or separate pouches to prevent pieces from scratching each other.
  • Avoid Contact with Harsh Chemicals: Perfumes, hairsprays, and cleaning products can affect both gemstones and metal finishes, so apply them before putting on jewelry.
  • Regular Cleaning: Clean your jewelry periodically to maintain its shine. Use a soft cloth or mild soap and water to gently remove dirt and oils.

Taking these precautions will help preserve the integrity and appearance of your jewelry. 

Caring for Lab-Grown Diamonds

Lab-grown diamonds are durable and require minimal maintenance, but they can still accumulate oils and dirt over time. Here’s how to care for them:

  • Cleaning: Soak in warm, soapy water for a few minutes, then gently brush with a soft toothbrush to remove any residue.
  • Polishing: For added sparkle, gently polish with a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners to protect the diamond’s surface.
  • Regular Inspection: Check prongs and settings to ensure your diamond is secure, especially in rings that see daily wear.

Lab-grown diamonds are as resilient as mined diamonds but maintaining them with regular cleaning and inspection can keep them looking their best. 

Caring for Recycled Metals

Recycled metals like gold, silver, and platinum offer the same beauty and durability as newly mined metals, but they require regular care to retain their luster:

  • Polishing: Use a soft polishing cloth to remove tarnish on silver, or bring gold and platinum back to their original shine.
  • Avoid Moisture: Moisture can lead to tarnishing, particularly in silver. Store your jewelry in a dry, cool place to reduce tarnish buildup.
  • Professional Cleaning: Periodically take your jewelry for professional cleaning to maintain its quality and shine, especially for items worn daily.

Recycled metals are durable and eco-friendly, but regular maintenance helps protect them against scratches and tarnish. 

Caring for Ethically Sourced Gemstones

Each gemstone type has unique properties, so caring for them individually ensures they retain their color and clarity. Here are some general tips for maintaining ethically sourced gemstones:

  • Avoid Direct Sunlight: Some stones, such as amethyst and topaz, can fade if exposed to prolonged sunlight. Store them in a shaded area.
  • Gentle Cleaning: Use a soft cloth and mild soap to clean gemstones. Avoid harsh chemicals, as they can damage the stone’s surface.
  • Check Settings Regularly: Gemstone settings should be inspected to ensure stones are securely held, especially for more delicate stones.

With proper care, ethically sourced gemstones can retain their natural beauty and value. 

Professional Maintenance for Sustainable Jewelry

For jewelry that sees frequent wear, such as engagement rings or family heirlooms, periodic professional maintenance can extend its lifespan. At BRILLIANT CARATS, we offer services to clean, inspect, and repair your sustainable jewelry, ensuring it remains as beautiful as the day you received it. This includes:

  • Prong Tightening: Over time, prongs holding gemstones may loosen. Professional tightening secures the stones and prevents loss.
  • Re-Polishing and Re-Finishing: Our experts can reapply finishes, including high polish or matte textures, to restore the jewelry’s original appearance.
  • Restoration: For older or heirloom pieces, restoration services can repair damage and revive the piece to its former glory.

Professional care is recommended annually to ensure your sustainable jewelry remains in excellent condition. 

Why Sustainable Jewelry Care Matters

Caring for sustainable jewelry is an investment in both beauty and responsibility. By taking care of these eco-friendly materials, you ensure they continue to look stunning while also respecting the values that sustainable jewelry represents. Proper care extends the lifespan of each piece, making it a lasting, meaningful addition to your collection.