Caring for Your Gemstone Jewellery
At Gaia's Heirlooms, we believe in creating jewellery that’s not only beautiful but also built to last. We carefully select each crystal bead and design every piece with the intention of timeless beauty and dependable durability.
Just as these stones have lasted for aeons, we want our jewellery to last for years to come. That's why we craft each piece with high-quality materials – from genuine gemstones to 925 Sterling Silver and 14k Gold Filled metals (never plated!) – so you can wear them every day.
But just like any treasured piece, a little extra care goes a long way. Our gemstones are gifts from the earth, each with its own unique history and delicate nature. By giving them a little love and attention, you can ensure they stay as brilliant as the day you first wore them.
You've probably seen certain jewellery care guidelines before, but it's not always clear why such recommendations are made. Well, here it is...
The Whys Behind the Care
• Keep Chemicals Away: Before you apply perfume, lotion, or hairspray, make sure to put your jewellery on last. The chemicals in these products can dull your gemstones and cause a reaction with the metals, which may lead to discolouration over time.
Remove Before Swimming: Chlorine and salt water are also tough on jewellery. Chlorine can corrode metals and weaken gemstone settings, while salt water can cause metals to tarnish. It's best to remove your pieces before swimming in a pool or the ocean to keep them safe.
• Say No to Harsh Cleaners: While you might be tempted to give your jewellery a deep clean, avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or harsh soaps. The powerful vibrations from an ultrasonic cleaner can be too aggressive for softer gemstones and can even loosen stones from their settings. Harsh chemicals in soaps and detergents can strip the shine from metals and even damage the surface of certain gemstones.
• Polish with a Soft Cloth: For a quick refresh, the best way to restore your jewellery’s natural shine is with a soft, dry cloth – you get a free jewellery polish cloth with every Gaia's Heirlooms item! This simple step gently removes oils and dirt without risking any damage, revealing the beautiful lustre underneath.
• Avoid Prolonged Direct Sunlight: Just as we protect our skin from the sun, it's a good idea to protect your gemstones too. Over time, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause certain stones (like amethyst or rose quartz) to fade and lose their vibrant colour.
• Handle with Care: Each gemstone is a natural wonder, but some are more delicate than others. Stones like opals can be fragile and brittle, so it's best to avoid dropping them or hitting them against hard surfaces. Think of it as handling a precious, tiny sculpture: a gentle touch is all it needs.
• Store Them Separately: Try not to toss all your pieces together into a single jewellery box. The hardness of different stones and metals varies, and they can easily scratch one another. Storing each piece in its own soft pouch or separate compartment will keep it from getting damaged.
• Keep Out of Reach: This is especially important if you have children. Small pieces of jewellery can be a choking hazard if they are broken or swallowed.
By following these simple steps, you're not just protecting your jewellery; you're preserving the story and the natural beauty of the heirloom Gaia has offered and you’ve chosen. We hope you wear your pieces with joy, knowing that with a little care, they will stay with you for years to come.
Ah, and don't forget: your piece has a 1-year guarantee, so if you have any issues, just get in touch and we’ll be happy to help!