The honest guide from someone who makes it, sells it, and wears it every day.
By Paola Incisa di Camerana
Let me start with something I tell every client. Your fine jewelry is made to be lived in. The way gold softens slightly over time, the tiny marks that appear from a life well worn, that is not damage. That is the beginning of its story as a future heirloom.
That said, there are things that will genuinely shorten the life of your pieces. I would rather tell you now.
Gold and Sterling Silver
Both gold and sterling silver need the same basic respect. Take your jewelry off before the gym, the pool, the shower, and bed. Lotion, perfume, sunscreen, chlorine, and hair products dull the sparkle and can permanently discolor your pieces over time. Put your jewelry on last, after everything else. Take it off first when you come home.
Sterling silver tarnishes naturally when exposed to air and moisture. That is not a flaw. It is silver doing what silver does. A gentle polish with a soft cloth brings it right back.
For cleaning both gold and silver, warm water, a small amount of mild dish soap, a soft brush, rinse well, and pat dry. That is all you need.
If You Have a Charm Ring or Clip-On Charm
These need extra attention because of the moving parts. Check periodically that your heart charm has not gotten caught on a zipper, a bag strap, a leash, or a pocket. The loop connecting the heart to the band is the most vulnerable point. If it feels loose, send it back to us. We will tighten it.
Same for clip-on charms. Make it a habit to check the clip after putting on or taking off clothing. If you would prefer your charm soldered as a pendant, we are happy to do that.
Your Gemstones
Not all stones are created equal. Here is what you need to know about the stones we work with at Dolce Amore Vault.
Diamonds, rubies and sapphires are the most durable stones for everyday wear. Warm water, mild soap, and a soft brush keep them sparkling. These are your workhorses.
Emeralds need a gentler touch. Most emeralds are naturally fracture-filled with oils or resins, which is completely normal and beautiful. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, steam, and sudden temperature changes. Clean with warm soapy water and a very soft brush. No harsh chemicals ever.
Aquamarine loves water but not heat or direct sunlight, which can cause fading over time. Clean gently with warm soapy water and keep it out of prolonged sun exposure.
Pink sapphires follow the same care as blue sapphires. Durable, beautiful, warm soapy water is all they need.
Pearls are the most delicate stone we work with. Always the last thing you put on and the first thing you take off. Wipe them with a soft damp cloth after wearing. Never spray perfume directly on pearls. Never soak them. Store them flat in a soft pouch. Pearls need to breathe so avoid airtight containers.
Onyx and turquoise are both porous stones. They can absorb chemicals, oils, and lotions and discolor permanently. Clean with a barely damp soft cloth only. No soaking, no chemicals, no ultrasonic cleaners. Keep them away from perfume and beauty products entirely.
Storage
Store pieces separately to avoid scratching. Harder stones like diamonds can scratch softer ones like turquoise and pearls. A soft lined jewelry box with individual compartments, or small pouches for each piece, is ideal. Keep your jewelry away from direct sunlight and extreme heat.
When in Doubt
If something needs attention on a Dolce Amore Vault piece, reach out and show me what's going on. I'll assess what's needed and give you a quote. From there, you can decide whether you'd like to send it back for repair or take it to a local jeweler. Sometimes shipping alone costs more than the fix, and I'll always be upfront about that.
Once a year, have your fine jewelry professionally cleaned and checked. A jeweler can inspect prongs, clasps, and settings for wear you might not notice. It's a small habit that goes a long way.
Fine jewelry is an investment. Treat it like one.
For our complete care guide visit dolceamorering.com/pages/how-to-care-for-your-fine-jewelry.