How to Care for Your Jewellery and Keep It Sparkling for Longer

Your jewellery is made to be worn, loved and enjoyed. Whether it’s your everyday favourite necklace, a bracelet you never want to take off, or a special pair of earrings chosen with love, the right care can help keep each piece looking bright, polished and beautiful for longer.

At Little Hearts Jewellery, our pieces are designed for everyday beauty, but like all beautifully finished jewellery, they still deserve a little attention. A few simple habits can make a big difference.

Remove your jewellery before water, perfume and exercise

One of the easiest ways to care for your jewellery is knowing when to take it off.

We recommend removing your jewellery before showering, swimming or exercising. Water, sweat, chlorine and salt can all affect the finish of your pieces over time. The same goes for perfume, lotions, hairspray and cosmetics, which can leave residue and reduce shine.

A good rule to remember is:

Jewellery should be the last thing you put on and the first thing you take off.

Apply your perfume, creams and makeup first, allow everything to dry, then add your jewellery as the finishing touch.

Keep it away from cleaning products

Household cleaning products can be much harsher than they seem. Chemicals found in sprays, detergents and soaps may affect the surface of your jewellery, especially pieces with polished or plated finishes.

Before cleaning, washing up, gardening or doing household tasks, it’s best to remove your jewellery and place it somewhere safe.

Wipe it gently after wearing

After wearing your jewellery, gently wipe it with a soft, dry cloth before putting it away. This helps remove natural oils, moisture and everyday residue from the surface.

It only takes a few seconds, but it is one of the best habits for keeping your jewellery looking fresh and polished. Avoid rough cloths, tissues or abrasive materials, as these may scratch delicate finishes.

Store each piece carefully

When you are not wearing your jewellery, store it in a dry place, ideally in its pouch or box. Keeping pieces separate helps avoid scratches, knots and tangling, especially with delicate chains.

Try not to leave jewellery loose in a handbag, bathroom, windowsill or dressing table tray where it can rub against other items or be exposed to moisture.

A soft pouch, lined box or individual compartment is ideal.

Be gentle with chains, clasps and adjustable pieces

Delicate jewellery should always be handled with care. When putting on or removing necklaces and bracelets, avoid pulling hard on the chain or clasp.

For adjustable pieces, gently slide the mechanism rather than forcing it. This helps preserve the shape, movement and finish of your jewellery.

Take extra care while sleeping

Where possible, remove your jewellery before sleeping. Chains can catch, earrings can bend, and bracelets may be pulled while you move during the night.

It may feel tempting to keep your favourite pieces on all the time, but giving them a little rest helps them stay beautiful for longer.

Understand natural wear over time

Even well-made jewellery can naturally show signs of wear depending on how often it is worn and how it is cared for. This is normal, especially for pieces worn every day.

Gentle handling, careful storage and regular cleaning with a soft dry cloth will help preserve the sparkle and finish of your jewellery for years to come.

A little care goes a long way

Jewellery is there to bring joy, confidence and sparkle to your everyday moments. With a few simple care habits, your favourite pieces can keep looking special each time you reach for them.

Wear them often, love them well, and treat them with a little care.