Jewellery Care
Jewellery Care
We always recommend bringing your jewellery in-store for a professional cleaning and polishing. Our expert team can safely remove tarnish, reduce surface scratches, and refresh the finish—helping restore a bright, like-new shine.
At Karen’s Fine Jewellery, every piece is made to be worn, loved, and kept. With the right care, your jewellery can stay beautiful for years. Below are simple care tips for each material in our collection so you can confidently care for your pieces at home.
Sterling Silver (925)
Sterling silver is a high-quality precious metal known for its bright shine and everyday durability. It’s made from 92.5% pure silver blended with 7.5% copper, which adds strength while keeping the look of fine silver.
What’s Good
✔ Polish gently with a soft silver cloth to maintain shine
✔ Remove before showering, swimming, or exercising
✔ Store in a pouch or jewellery box to reduce exposure to air (helps slow tarnish)
What to Avoid
✘ Harsh chemicals (household cleaners, perfumes, hairspray)
✘ Storing in humid areas (like the bathroom)
Solid Gold (10K–18K)
Gold is prized for its rich colour, lasting value, and long-term wearability. 10K gold is strong and practical for everyday wear. 14K and 18K gold have higher purity and a richer gold tone, making them a popular choice for fine jewellery.
What’s Good
✔ Wear often—solid gold is durable and does not tarnish
✔ Clean with warm water and a gentle soap if needed
✔ Dry fully with a soft cloth after cleaning
What to Avoid
✘ Chlorine or bleach (can damage gold over time)
✘ Wearing while using strong cleaning products
Gold Vermeil (Sterling Silver with Thick Gold Plating)
Gold vermeil is made by layering a thick coat of real gold over 925 sterling silver. It gives the look of solid gold, while still being made with a genuine precious-metal base.
What’s Good
✔ Wipe gently with a clean, dry, soft cloth after wear
✔ Store in a pouch or box to reduce exposure to air and moisture
✔ Apply perfume, lotion, and hairspray before putting on jewellery
✔ Keep pieces separate to prevent rubbing and scratches
What to Avoid
✘ Water—remove before washing hands, bathing, or swimming
✘ Friction against rough surfaces (can wear down the gold layer faster)
✘ Storing loose in a bag where pieces can rub together
Stones (Cubic Zirconia, Lab-Grown Diamonds, Natural Diamonds)
Cubic Zirconia
Cubic zirconia offers a diamond-like sparkle at a more accessible price, making it a popular choice for everyday shine.
Lab-Grown Diamonds
Lab-grown diamonds are created using advanced technology and have the same brilliance and durability as mined diamonds. They’re increasingly popular for their value and ethical appeal.
Natural Diamonds
Natural diamonds are rare and classic—ideal for heirloom-quality jewellery meant to be worn for generations.
What’s Good
✔ Clean gently with warm water
✔ Wipe with a microfiber cloth to keep stones bright and clear
✔ Store carefully so stones don’t rub against other jewellery
What to Avoid
✘ Impact or pressure—stones can chip or loosen
✘ Wearing during heavy activity (gym, sports, lifting)
✘ Chemicals that can dull shine or weaken settings over time