Sterling silver should be polished with a soft cotton cloth or a chemically treated cloth. Also avoid using paper towels or tissue paper as they can easily scratch silver.
Gemstones and Crystals may be immersed in warm soapy water and dried with a soft cotton cloth. Avoid chlorinated water, salt water, abrasives and sterling silver dips or cloths to be on the safe side. If you choose to use a jewelry cleaner, read the directions very carefully to make sure it is recommended for the particular stone or metal you are cleaning. If you have any doubt about these cleaners damaging your jewelry, do not use it. Take the time to clean your jewelry by hand to avoid any damage.
Pearls, coral, and porous stones should be kept away from dirty water and oils to avoid discoloration. Never clean pearls with chemicals, abrasives, jewelry cleaners or jewelry cloths. Wash pearls with a good cleaner made especially for pearls or just warm soapy water, then rinse and dry with a soft cloth. Allow to dry before putting them away.
Take off your jewelry when doing any work that may damage it. If you are very active, take extra precautions with some types of gemstones since some activities may cause damage.
Storage: Keep your jewelry in a fabric-lined jewelry box or wrap pieces individually so they will not scratch each other. Keep your jewelry in a clean, dry place. Air tight zip-lock plastic bags are an excellent economical alternative and will help prevent tarnishing. Hair spray, perfume and perspiration may cause jewelry to become dull. Apply all cosmetics, perfumes and colognes before putting on colored gemstone jewelry. Make sure to wipe your gemstones with a damp cloth after wearing them to remove any chemicals, oils or perspiration.
