Many of the pieces in our shop have already lasted fifty years or more. With a little care, they will last another fifty. Here is how we recommend wearing, cleaning and storing your finds so they stay as lovely as the day they arrived.
Last on, first off
The simplest habit makes the biggest difference. Put your jewelry on after perfume, hairspray, lotion and makeup, and take it off before you wash your hands, swim, shower or exercise. Chemicals and moisture are the main causes of dull stones, worn plating and tarnish.
Vintage costume jewelry and rhinestones
Most vintage rhinestones are backed with a thin layer of foil that gives them their sparkle. If water seeps behind the stone, the foil can darken and the stone loses its shine for good. Never soak costume jewelry or put it in an ultrasonic cleaner. To clean it, use a soft, dry brush such as a clean makeup brush or a soft toothbrush to lift dust from around the stones. For a little more cleaning, lightly dampen a cotton swab, wipe the surface, and dry the piece right away with a soft cloth. Many stones are set with glue, so go gently around the settings.
Faux pearls
Faux pearls get their glow from a coating over a glass or plastic bead, and that coating can wear away with friction, water and chemicals. Wipe them with a soft, dry cloth after wearing, keep them away from perfume and hairspray, and store them flat so the strand does not stretch.
Gold-tone and silver-tone pieces
Gold-tone and silver-tone jewelry is plated, meaning a thin layer of finish sits over a base metal. Polishes, dips and abrasive cloths can wear right through that layer. A soft, dry cloth is all these pieces need. Some light wear on a vintage piece is part of its history, and we always note it in the listing.
Sterling silver
Sterling silver tarnishes naturally when it meets air and moisture. Wearing it often actually helps keep it bright. To remove tarnish, use a silver polishing cloth and work gently. Avoid liquid silver dips on pieces with darkened details, since those dark recesses are often intentional and part of the design. Keep sterling away from chlorine and harsh cleaners, and store it in an anti-tarnish bag or a closed box when you are not wearing it.
Enamel
Whether it is true enamel, which is glass fused to metal, or the painted finish often used on costume pieces, enamel can chip if dropped or knocked. Wipe it with a soft, damp cloth, dry it right away, and store it where it will not rub against other pieces.
Watches
Treat any vintage or preowned watch as if it is not water resistant, even if the dial says otherwise, because seals age over time. Keep it dry, wipe the case and band with a soft cloth, and have a jeweler or watch repair shop replace the battery when it runs down.
Storing your jewelry
Store each piece separately so stones and finishes do not scratch one another. A lined jewelry box with compartments, or individual soft pouches, works well. Fasten necklaces and lay them flat or hang them to prevent tangles, and close the pin on brooches. Keep everything in a cool, dry place, out of the bathroom, where humidity can harm both rhinestones and silver. A small silica gel packet in your jewelry box helps absorb moisture.
When to see a professional
If a stone is loose, a clasp is weak, or a piece needs more than a gentle cleaning, take it to a jeweler who works with vintage pieces. Small repairs made early keep a favorite piece wearable for years to come.
Have a question about caring for something you bought from us? Just get in touch. We are always happy to help.