Jewellery Care Guide
To ensure your jewellery continues to shine and stand the test of time, proper care and maintenance are essential. At Carat Years, we want you to enjoy your jewellery forever — so we've created this simple guide filled with expert care tips to keep your diamonds and gold looking as radiant as the day you received them.
Carat Years Education • June 2026
Diamond Care
Diamonds may be forever, but regular cleaning helps them maintain their sparkle. Over time, dirt, oils, and product build-up can dull your diamond's brilliance. Here are some key tips to keep your diamond jewellery looking flawless:
Remove diamond jewellery before showering
Soap residue can create a film over diamonds, dulling their shine. It's also a great opportunity to let your skin breathe — or let your jewellery soak gently in a mild cleaning solution while you wash.
Use a soft toothbrush for cleaning
A soft-bristled toothbrush with warm water helps remove dirt from the prongs and restore shine to the stone. Be gentle to avoid loosening the setting.
Remove jewellery when applying creams
Creams, sunscreen, and perfume can build up behind stones and between prongs. Always apply these products before putting on your jewellery to prevent tarnish or residue on the metal.
Be cautious with ultrasonic cleaners
While ultrasonic cleaners are effective, the vibrations can loosen diamonds from their settings. Use them sparingly and have your jewellery checked periodically by a professional.
Gold Care
Gold jewellery is stunning but can be delicate, especially in higher carats. Everyday wear exposes gold to dirt, scratches, and chemicals, so here are some essential care tips:
Remove jewellery before swimming or using a hot tub
Chlorine and other pool chemicals can damage or discolor gold. If you swim often, store your jewellery in a soft cloth or its original box while in the pool.
Avoid using toothpaste for cleaning
Although often recommended, toothpaste is abrasive and can scratch soft gold metals like 18ct gold. Use gentle cleaning solutions instead.
Remove gold jewellery when cleaning
Cleaning agents like bleach and sprays can tarnish or erode gold. Remove jewellery before household cleaning and wash your hands before putting it back on.
How to Clean Different Jewellery Types
How to Clean a Ring
Mix a small amount of mild washing-up liquid with warm water and let your ring soak for 15–30 minutes. Gently scrub prongs and crevices with a soft toothbrush before drying with a clean, soft cloth.
How to Clean a Necklace
Remove any pendant before soaking the chain. If the pendant contains glued stones, wipe gently with a damp cloth instead. Soak the chain in warm, soapy water, then dry carefully with a soft cloth.
How to Clean Earrings
Clean earring hooks and posts with an alcohol swab between wears for hygiene. For the earrings themselves, gently brush diamonds or prongs with warm water and a soft toothbrush, then pat dry.
Regular maintenance not only preserves the shine of your jewellery but also protects its sentimental and lasting value. For deeper cleaning or repairs, visit your nearest Carat Years boutique or contact our care team.
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