KNOW YOUR METALS-PLATINUM,GOLD,DIAMONDS AND PEARLS

PLATINUM:

Platinum is one of the most durable metals. It is resistant to tarnishing and discolouration due to chlorine and other chemicals. However, despite its durability, platinum jewellery needs to be properly cared for. Platinum jewellery can be cleaned the same way as other fine jewellery. There are many jewellery cleaners which work with platinum,Store your jewellery separately, as even platinum can be scratched. If visible scratches appear, a professional polish may restore it to its beauty.

Watches need the same amount of attention as fine jewellery.
No matter how handy you are, don't attempt "do it yourself" watch repairs. Only a professional should try to repair your watch. Replace broken or scratched faces immediately. Even a hairline crack can allow moisture and dust in the working mechanism.
Remove watch when showering or when in contact with water, unless your watch is water-resistant.
Oils from your skin can build up on a watch. To clean, use a slightly damp cloth and dry.

GOLD:

Remove all gold jewellery before showering. Soap can cause a film to form on the pieces making them appear dull.
Be careful of chlorine. Chlorine can permanently damage or discolour your gold jewellery.
To remove tarnish from your jewellery, you can use a jewellery cleaner, or by using soap and water mixed with a few drops of ammonia. Carefully brush with a soft bristle brush. An old toothbrush can also be used.


DIAMONDS:


Diamonds may be the hardest substance known to man, but they can still be damaged or dulled.
Don't wear your diamonds when doing rough work. Even though a diamond is durable, it can be chipped by a hard blow.
Don't let your diamond come in contact with chlorine bleach or other chemicals, as they can discolour the mounting.
To clean, prepare a small bowl of warm suds with any mild liquid detergent. Brush pieces gently while they are still in the suds. Transfer to a wire strainer and rinse under warm running water.
You can also soak your diamond jewellery for 30 minutes in a mixture of half ammonia and water.


PEARLS:


The delicate nature of pearls makes them particularly susceptible to damage.
Apply cosmetics, hair sprays and perfume before putting on any pearl jewellery. When you remove your pearl jewellery wipe it carefully with a soft cloth to remove any traces of these substances.
Keep your pearl jewellery separate as its surface is soft and can be scratched by hard metal edges or by gemstones of other pieces.
Bring your pearls into your jewellers to have them restrung once a year.