How to Care for Your Fine Jewellery During Summer Travels and Holidays
Fine jewellery is more than an adornment—it's an investment and often holds deep personal meaning. While these treasured pieces can effortlessly elevate your summer looks, the warm season calls for extra care. Whether you're lounging at a Mediterranean beach, exploring coastal villas, or enjoying a private yacht getaway, the combination of sun, sand, and sea can take a toll on even the finest jewels.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best practices for protecting your fine jewellery during the summer months, ensuring it remains as radiant as the day it became yours. From safeguarding against saltwater and sunscreen to preserving the brilliance of diamonds, gemstones, and moissanite, these tips will help you enjoy your summer travels without compromising your jewellery’s longevity.
1. Protecting Jewellery from Saltwater and Chlorine
Saltwater and chlorinated pools may add to the charm of summer, but they can be unforgiving to your fine jewellery. Precious metals such as gold, platinum, and silver are particularly vulnerable to the corrosive effects of salt and chlorine, which can lead to tarnishing and weakening over time. The abrasiveness of saltwater can dull the finish of gemstones, while chlorine can erode metal alloys, leaving your jewellery more prone to damage and wear.
To ensure your jewellery’s longevity, it’s always advisable to remove your pieces before taking a dip in the sea or pool. Store them in a protective pouch or case while swimming to keep them safe from harmful elements.
2. Avoiding Sunscreen, Lotions, and Oils
Sunscreens, moisturisers, and oils are a summer essential for skin care, but they can have adverse effects on fine jewellery, particularly on moissanite stones. One common issue is the “oil slick” effect that occurs when these oily products accumulate on the surface of moissanite. This residue can leave an unsightly, rainbow-like film that diminishes the stone’s brilliance, causing it to look dull or cloudy.
To prevent this, apply your sunscreen and lotions before wearing your jewellery, giving them enough time to absorb fully into your skin. After a day in the sun, be sure to clean your pieces with a soft, lint-free cloth to remove any product residue. For more intricate or delicate pieces, a professional clean will restore their sparkle and keep them looking flawless throughout the season.
3. Organising and Storing Jewellery While Travelling
Summer is often synonymous with travel, and taking your jewellery along for the journey requires mindful organisation. Diamonds, although incredibly hard, can scratch softer gemstones like emeralds or pearls if stored together. To avoid this, each piece should be stored individually in soft pouches or a jewellery case with separate compartments. This prevents tangling, scratching, or accidental damage, ensuring your treasured pieces remain immaculate.
When packing, resist the urge to toss your jewellery loose into a bag. A little organisation goes a long way in preserving their pristine condition, especially when transporting pieces across different climates and settings.
4. Cleaning and Regular Maintenance
The combination of summer heat, perspiration, and environmental elements like dust and sand can leave a residue on your jewellery, affecting its appearance. After each wear, clean your pieces gently with a soft cloth to wipe away oils, dirt, and moisture. For more stubborn grime, especially on intricate settings, consider using a mild cleaning solution specifically designed for fine jewellery.
Additionally, a routine visit to your jeweller is always a wise move. Professional inspections can ensure that your clasps, prongs, and settings are secure and that your stones are as brilliant as ever. They can also provide deep cleaning services that restore the lustre of your jewellery, making it look as stunning as the day it was made.
5. Special Attention for Moissanite Stones
Moissanite, known for its incredible fire and brilliance, requires special care, particularly in the summer. The high refractive index of moissanite is what gives it that dazzling sparkle, but oils from sunscreen, lotions, or even natural skin oils can cause the stone to develop a visible “oil slick.” This effect creates a rainbow-like sheen, dulling the stone's otherwise breathtaking appearance. Regular cleaning is essential to maintain moissanite’s brilliance. A simple rinse with mild soap and water followed by drying with a soft cloth will help to restore its sparkle.
It’s also advisable to remove your moissanite jewellery before applying any skincare products and to clean the stones regularly during the summer months to keep them radiant.
With these thoughtful practices, you can travel and enjoy your summer adventures with the confidence that your fine jewellery will remain as exquisite as ever. By taking the time to care for your pieces, you're preserving not just their beauty but also the legacy of fine craftsmanship that defines them. Each jewel tells a story, and with proper care, those stories can be passed down for generations to come.
