Fine jewelry from a designer like ILA not only embodies exceptional craftsmanship and artistic expression but also holds sentimental value. These treasured pieces often symbolize and capture significant milestones, fond memories, and profound emotions. To protect your fine jewelry, meticulous care and maintenance are essential.

Different gemstones possess unique characteristics, making them susceptible to various forms of damage if not handled properly. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best practices for caring for fine jewelry,  diamonds, and the following gemstones: emeralds, sapphires, turquoise, and tourmalines.
Let's dive in!

Fine Jewelry

Regular Cleaning

Diamonds, known for their unmatched brilliance and durability, are the hardest gemstone on Earth. Nevertheless, they still require regular care to retain their luster:

Regular Cleaning

• Soak diamonds in a solution of warm water and mild dish soap.
• Gently scrub using a soft toothbrush.
• Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a soft, lint-free cloth

Storage

• Keep diamonds separate from other gemstones to prevent scratching.
• Store in a fabric-lined jewelry box or in an ILA jewelry box or pouch.
  
  

Professional Inspection

• Have your diamond jewelry professionally inspected and cleaned annually.
• Experts can check for loose prongs or any potential issues.
  
  

Precautions while wearing

• Avoid wearing diamond jewelry while engaging in activities that may expose them to chemicals, such as cleaning agents or chlorine.
• Remove diamond jewelry before participating in sports or any physical activities that may subject them to impact or rough handling.
• Be cautious while applying lotions, creams, or perfumes, as these substances can dull the brilliance of diamonds.

Emeralds 

Emeralds, prized for their vivid green hue and stunning clarity, require delicate care to preserve their beauty:

Gentle Cleaning

• Avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and steamers.
• Wipe emeralds with a soft, damp cloth.
• Dry thoroughly to prevent moisture damage.
  
  

Avoid Extreme Temperatures

• Emeralds are sensitive to temperature changes.
• Avoid exposing them to extreme heat or sudden temperature variations.
• Remove emerald jewelry before swimming in hot tubs or saunas.

Protective Storage

• Store emerald jewelry in a soft pouch or individually lined compartments.
• Keep away from other gemstones to avoid scratches.
  
  

Precautions while wearing

• Protect emeralds from excessive exposure to direct sunlight, as it can cause fading or discoloration.
• Avoid wearing emeralds when engaging in activities that may subject them to impact or rough handling.
• Remove emerald jewelry before using harsh chemicals or household cleaning agents.

Sapphires 

Sapphires, available in various hues and loved for their beauty and durability, can maintain their brilliance with these care tips:

Gentle Cleaning

• Clean sapphires with a soft cloth and mild soapy water.
• Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth.
  
  

Avoid Abrasive Materials

• Sapphires can scratch easily, so avoid contact with abrasive materials.
• Remove sapphire jewelry before engaging in rigorous activities.
  
  

Periodic Inspections

• Regularly check prongs and settings for signs of wear.
• Have your sapphire jewelry inspected and serviced by a professional.

Precautions while wearing

• While sapphires are durable, it's still advisable to remove them before engaging in activities that may subject them to extreme impact or pressure.
• Avoid wearing sapphire jewelry while applying lotions, creams, or perfumes to prevent build-up that can dull their brilliance.
• Protect sapphires from exposure to household chemicals or chlorine, which can damage the gemstone.

Turquoise 

Turquoise, cherished for its vibrant blue color and unique patterns, requires special care and attention to prevent damage:

Avoid Contact with Chemicals

• Turquoise is porous and can be easily damaged by chemicals.
• Remove turquoise jewelry before using perfumes, lotions, or cleaning products.

Cleaning

• Wipe turquoise gently with a soft, damp cloth.
• Avoid soaking or using harsh cleaning agents.

Protection from Heat and Sun

• Turquoise is sensitive to heat and prolonged exposure to sunlight.
• Store in a cool, dry place and avoid direct sunlight.

Precautions while wearing

• Turquoise is relatively soft and can be easily scratched, so it's best to remove turquoise jewelry before engaging in activities that may subject them to abrasion or impact.
• Avoid exposing turquoise to extreme temperatures or rapid temperature changes, as it can cause cracking or color changes.

Tourmalines 

Tourmalines, known for their vibrant range of colors and excellent durability, require proper care to maintain their brilliance:

Gentle Cleaning

• Clean tourmaline jewelry using warm, soapy water and a soft brush.
• Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a soft cloth.

Avoid Extreme Temperatures

• Protect tourmal

Avoid Extreme Temperatures

• Protect tourmalines from sudden temperature changes or exposure to excessive heat.
• Remove tourmaline jewelry before using hot tubs, saunas

Precautions while wearing

• While tourmalines are relatively durable, it's advisable to remove them before engaging in activities that may subject them to impact or rough handling.
• Protect tourmalines from exposure to harsh chemicals, including household cleaning agents and chlorine.
• Avoid wearing tourmaline jewelry while applying lotions, creams, or perfumes, as they can build up and dull the gemstone's shine.

Caring for your fine jewelry, especially when it features precious gemstones like diamonds, emeralds, sapphires, turquoise, and tourmalines, is essential to ensure their longevity and beauty. By following the specific care guidelines outlined for each gemstone and diamonds, you can enjoy your jewelry for years to come. Remember to clean them gently, store them properly, and take precautions while wearing them to minimize the risk of damage. With a little attention and care, your fine jewelry will continue to sparkle and captivate for generations.

We do recommend having your ILA jewelry periodically checked by our workshop to ensure it’s longevity. Please see our FAQ for more information.