Get your jewellery to shine again

Be it a simple gold chain or a gold necklace with stones on it, they need to be protected from getting damaged. To maintain its shine one can try various methods, including polishing to washing with soap and water, say jewellers.

"Gold jewellery can be cleaned with a mild detergent diluted in warm water. After cleaning, it should be dried and polished with a soft cloth," Chandresh Zaveri, director of Zaveri & Co, told IANS.

The simple cleansing method will make your gold pieces shine again, but the ones with gemstones need extra care.

"Don't submerge the piece into a bowl of water and soap. Use a clean, dry cloth that has been dampened with the mixture. Take a cloth to clean your jewellery and gently rub over the gemstones. Use a separate, slightly damp cloth that hasn't been dipped in soap water to rinse the jewellery," said Sanjay Jagwani, director of Notandas & Sons Jewellers.

The pieces should be stored in small individual pouches or boxes wrapped in tissue paper individually. Zaveri also said that ensure they don't get tangled.

Exposure to air effects silver jewellery or other items' shine. To restore its shine and remove that dark black coating, Jagwani suggests to store them in a cool and dry place.

"Silver tarnishes when exposed to air, so it's a good idea to keep your silver in airtight zip lock plastic bags or an airtight container when not in use. This will help to slow the tarnishing process," he added.

While swimming, remove your silver jewellery.

"Take a professional jewellery polishing cloth to clean silver. The cloth is treated with cleaning chemicals and not only will the cloth last a long time, it will give you an amazing shine. Rub gently in a lengthwise motion and it will also make the stones shine," Zaveri said.

Known for its intense lustre, platinum doesn't get tarnished, but keeping it clean is advised.

"Either use a mild solution of soap and warm water and gently rub it with a soft cloth, or buy a jewellery cleaning solution," said Zaveri.