Jewelry pieces, whether it's meteorite bracelets or a set of heirloom pearls, deserve utmost care and attention. After all, they hold sentimental and often monetary value. If you're looking to keep your jewelry looking new for years to come, then this guide is for you. Here's how to take care of your meteorite jewelry:
Storage
Storing your jewelry in a cool and dry place is a must. Keep them away from sunlight, dampness, and excessive heat to prevent scratches and damage. It's best to keep each piece separately in sealed plastic bags or compartments of a jewelry box.
Wearing
Avoid wearing your jewelry during strenuous activities like sports, swimming, or gym workouts. Also, remove them before sleeping, cooking, cleaning, or showering. When applying cosmetics, lotions, or perfumes, let them dry before putting on your jewelry. Exposure to chemicals and acids can be damaging, especially for meteorites, pearls, and opals.
Cleaning Meteorite Jewelry
Meteorite jewelry requires special care due to its iron-based Muonionalusta composition, which can rust over time. Follow these steps to keep your meteorite jewelry in top shape:
- Cover other materials and gemstones with high-quality, waterproof tape or electrician's tape before cleaning.
- Use a cotton swab to apply 90% rubbing alcohol to the meteorite section(s), then gently scrub with a toothbrush.
- Dry the item with a soft cloth or paper towel, then air dry for at least 20 minutes.
- Apply a small amount of gunmetal oil to a dry toothbrush and gently scrub the meteorite.
- Wipe off excess oil with a clean cloth.
How to Clean Gemstone and Sterling Silver Jewelry
Cleaning gemstone and sterling silver jewelry is also essential to maintain their shine and sparkle. Here's how to clean them:
- Gemstone jewelry: Gently rub the gemstone with your fingers and "oil" it to remove white spots. You can also wash it with lukewarm water and mild soap or polish it with a soft cloth.
- Sterling silver jewelry: Use a silver cleaning cloth infused with anti-tarnishing agents, or soak the jewelry in soapy water for ten minutes before brushing and rinsing.
Taking care of your jewelry may seem like a small task, but it goes a long way in ensuring they last for generations. With these tips, you can maintain the beauty and elegance of your precious meteorite, gemstone, and silver jewelry.