Keep Your Jewelry Beautiful for Years to Come
Jewelry Care
Fine jewelry is meant to be worn, enjoyed, and passed down through generations. Whether it’s an engagement ring, anniversary gift, or family heirloom, a little care goes a long way in protecting both its beauty and its value.
At Shannon Jewelers in Spring, we’re always happy to help with professional jewelry cleaning and inspections for clients throughout Spring, The Woodlands, and the surrounding North Houston communities. Between visits, these simple care tips will help keep your jewelry looking its best.
How to Care for Diamond Jewelry
Diamonds are remarkably durable, but everyday wear can still allow oils, lotions, and residue to build up behind the stone. To safely clean diamond jewelry at home:
- Fill a small bowl with warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap.
- Let the jewelry soak for about 20 minutes.
- Gently clean the piece with a soft jewelry brush, focusing on the back of the diamond where buildup often collects.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
- Dry with a lint-free cloth.
A quick cleaning once or twice a week helps maintain the brightness of your diamond between professional cleanings.
Caring for Colored Gemstones & Pearls
Most colored gemstones can be cleaned using warm water, mild soap, and a soft brush. However, some gems require extra care.
Pearls are delicate and should never be submerged in water.
To clean pearls:
- Use a soft cloth lightly dampened with a mild soap and water mixture
- Gently wipe the surface
- Lay the strand flat on a soft cloth to dry
Pearls should always be the last thing you put on, and the first thing you remove when getting undressed.
Everyday Jewelry Care Tips
Avoid Excessive Heat & Sunlight
Some gemstones are sensitive to prolonged sunlight and heat. Stones such as amethyst, topaz, and pearls may fade or discolor with extended UV exposure.
Remove Jewelry Before Gardening or the Beach
Sand and soil can act like sandpaper against precious metals and gemstones. If you’re gardening in Spring or spending a day outdoors around The Woodlands, it’s best to remove your jewelry beforehand.
Keep Jewelry Away From Chemicals
Household cleaners, chlorine, perfume, and lotions can damage metals and certain gemstones. Remove jewelry before:
- Swimming in pools
- Using cleaning products
- Applying hairspray or perfume
- Using lotions or cosmetics
Even gold and platinum can be affected by prolonged chemical exposure.
Use a Soft Jewelry Brush
A toothbrush can sometimes be too abrasive and may apply pressure in the wrong places. A small, soft brush designed for jewelry is the safest option for cleaning.
Should You Use an Ultrasonic Cleaner?
Ultrasonic cleaners can be effective but are not appropriate for all jewelry. The vibrations may loosen stones, especially in:
- Pavé settings
- Vintage jewelry
- Delicate gemstone pieces
If you’re unsure whether your jewelry is suitable, it’s best to let us handle the cleaning.
Proper storage prevents scratches and damage. We recommend:
- Storing each piece separately
- Using a padded jewelry box or soft pouch
- Keeping chains clasped to prevent tangling
Avoid placing multiple pieces together where they may rub against each other.
While fine jewelry is designed for daily wear, certain activities can increase wear and tear.
Consider removing jewelry when:
- Sleeping
- Exercising
- Swimming
- Doing yard work or home repairs
Precious metals can scratch, and constant friction can gradually loosen stones.
If you're traveling from the Spring or North Houston area, pack jewelry carefully. Helpful tips include:
- Use a travel jewelry case with separate compartments
- Wrap individual pieces in soft cloth or tissue
- Thread necklaces through a straw to prevent tangling
A little preparation helps ensure your jewelry arrives safely.
Just like a car needs routine maintenance, fine jewelry benefits from regular professional care.
We recommend bringing your jewelry to Shannon Jewelers in Spring once a year for a professional inspection and cleaning.
During your visit, our team will:
- Inspect prongs and gemstone settings
- Check clasps and structural integrity
- Clean and polish your jewelry
- Reapply rhodium plating to white gold if needed
These small preventative steps help protect your jewelry for years to come.
Cleaning Your Engagement Ring at Home
To clean your ring safely:
- Soak it in warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap for 20–30 minutes.
- Gently brush around the setting and underneath the diamond.
- Rinse thoroughly (make sure the drain is closed).
- Dry with a soft cloth.
This simple routine removes everyday buildup from lotions, soap, and environmental residue.
What to Avoid
Certain cleaning methods can damage your ring.
Avoid:
- Bleach or chlorine
- Acetone or harsh chemicals
- Toothpaste or abrasive cleaners
- Hard-bristled brushes
When in doubt, bring your ring to us and we’ll be happy to clean it professionally.
How Often Should You Clean Your Ring?
For rings worn daily:
- At-home cleaning: every 1–2 weeks
- Professional cleaning and inspection: once per year
During your annual visit, Shannon Jewelers will check prongs, examine the setting, clean & polish the ring, and make sure everything remains secure.
