Looking after it between visits.
How to clean it at home, and what quietly wears a piece out. No special product, and nothing you have to buy.
Cleaning it yourself.
Warm water, a drop of dish soap, and a soft toothbrush will do almost everything a jeweler’s machine does.
- Step 1 Soak A few minutes in warm soapy water loosens the hand cream and soap film that is dulling the stone.
- Step 2 Brush Behind the stone as well as the front. The underside of a setting is where residue collects, and it is what makes a diamond look flat.
- Step 3 Rinse Over a bowl, or with the drain plugged.
- Step 4 Dry A soft cloth. Paper towel scratches softer metals.
What actually causes damage.
Rarely a dramatic event. Usually something repeated for years.
- Chlorine and bleach
Chlorine attacks the alloys in gold over time and can weaken the metal holding a stone. Take rings off before a pool or a hot tub.
- Sunscreen and lotion
Harmless to the metal, but it is the single biggest reason jewelry looks dull on vacation. On Maui this matters more than most places.
- Sleeping in it
Bends thin bands and loosens prongs slowly. A dish by the bed solves it.
- Storing pieces loose together
Diamond scratches everything, including other diamonds. Separate pouches or a lined box.
- Ultrasonic cleaners at home
Fine for some pieces, risky for others: emerald, opal, and anything already loose. Ask before you buy one.
And when you are next on the island.
Bring it in. The safety check is the part that matters: it is how a loose stone gets caught before it is lost rather than after.
What lifetime care covers
Cleaning and a safety check are included on anything bought here, for as long as you own it. Stated exactly, so there is nothing to be disappointed by later.
Repairs and resizing
Most of it is done on the bench here. Bring anything, whether or not it came from us.