Sun Valley Jewelry Care
LEARNING CENTER
Diamonds are forever, but they still must be cared for to assure their most brilliant performance.
CLEANING: Lotions, powders, soaps and even natural skin oil can reduce the brilliance of your diamond. While your jeweler can clean your diamond pieces, here are four methods you can use at home.
The Detergent Bath
Prepare a small bowl of warm suds with a mild liquid detergent. Brush the pieces with an eyebrow brush while they are in the suds. Transfer them to a wire tea strainer and rinse under warm running water. Pat dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.
The Cold Water Soak
Make a half-and-half solution of cold water and household ammonia in a cup. Soak the pieces for 30 minutes. Lift out and tap gently around the back and front of the mounting with an eyebrow brush. Swish the solution once more and drain on tissue paper.
The Quick-Dip Method
Buy a name brand liquid jewelry cleaner and follow the instructions on the label. Don't touch your clean diamonds with your fingers, and be sure to handle your jewelry by its edges.
The Ultrasonic Cleaner
There are many types of these small machines on the market that will in minutes clean any piece of jewelry that can be dipped in liquid. Since each machine is slightly different, read the instructions very carefully before use.
Special note about diamond watches: A wristwatch should never be "dipped" in any liquid. The best way to clean diamond watches is to buff with a jeweler's polishing cloth. Be extra gentle on the diamonds, so as not to loosen their settings.
STORING: It is important that you give your diamond proper attention, even when it is not being worn. Keep your precious pieces in a fabric-lined jewel case or box. If you're using an ordinary box, wrap each piece individually in tissue paper. Don't jumble your diamond pieces together because they can scratch other jewelry-and each other.
TRAVELING: You should give your diamonds the same care when you travel as you do at home. Choose a carry-case designed specifically for jewelry travel. They come in all sizes and price ranges, and most have velvet pads inside to attach pins or earrings and compartments for other pieces. Pack a small bottle of jewelry cleaner with your cosmetics for quick cleanings away from home.
Information on Gems, Gemological Societies, and Jewelry Resources
Here are several links for researching gems, gemological organizations, and other resources that will help you learn about jewelry. Be sure to discuss your findings with the trained experts at Barry Peterson Jewelers, as nothing replaces knowledgeable, in-person information and advice.
Websites on gems, diamonds:
Websites for gemological organizations:
The International Gemological Society, www.igiworldwide.com
The Gemological Institute, www.gia.org
The European Gemological Laboratory, EGL USA, www.eglusa.com
