Care and keeping

None of this is precious, but a few habits will keep everything looking new for years rather than months.

The three rules

Keep it out of the shower, the pool and the sea. Chlorine and salt are what actually kill gold plating.

Put jewelry on after perfume, lotion and hairspray, never before. Alcohol dulls enamel faster than anything else.

Store pieces flat and separately. Cords twist and chains tangle when things get thrown in together.

Cleaning

A dry soft cloth is enough for almost everything. For enamel and glass, breathe on it and buff, the way you would with glasses.

Never use jewelry dip or silver polish on plated brass. It strips the plating and it does not come back.

Pearls specifically

Freshwater pearls are the softest thing we use. Wipe them after wearing, keep them away from anything acidic, and do not store them anywhere hot.