Jewelry Care & Maintenance

We hope you treasure and enjoy your handcrafted jewelry for years to come! With a little mindful care, your favorite pieces will maintain their brilliance, structure, and luster for generations.

General Best Practices

Avoid direct contact with perfumes, lotions, and oils when possible. Prongs and pavé settings can also catch on fine fabrics.
Jewelry should be the last thing you put on and the first thing you take off.
Steer clear of sudden temperature changes and abrasive surfaces.
Prolonged exposure to sunlight can affect some gemstones—avoid leaving colored gems in direct sun.
Remove your jewelry during strenuous activities like workouts, gardening, or heavy lifting.
When traveling or storing your piece, keep it in its pouch, box, or a soft dish—never loose in a pocket or at the bottom of your bag.

Cleaning Diamond & Hard Gemstone Rings

Soak: Fill a small glass with warm water and a few drops of gentle, non-detergent dish soap (like Dr. Bronner's or Ivory). Soak for 5–10 minutes.
Brush Gently: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clear away oil and debris around and beneath the setting.
Rinse & Dry: Rinse under warm water and pat dry with a lint-free cloth.

How to Care for Pearls

Pearls are organic gems created by living mollusks, making them porous and distinct from traditional minerals. They need gentle care to keep their outer nacre glowing:

Wipe After Wearing: Skin oils and sweat can slowly erode pearl luster. Wipe your pearls with a soft, slightly damp cloth after each wear before storing them.
Avoid Chemicals & Immersion: Never use baking soda, vinegar, steam, or ultrasonic cleaners on pearls. Keep them away from harsh soaps, perfumes, and cosmetics.
Store Flat: If your pearls are strung on silk thread, store them laying flat. Hanging them causes the silk cord to stretch out over time.

How to Care for Opals

Opals are truly magical—their captivating interplay of color is created by tiny spheres of hydrated silica that trap microscopic amounts of water. Because opals naturally contain water, they are far softer and more sensitive than traditional gemstones:

Protect from Drying & Thermal Shock: Extreme heat, low humidity, intense sunlight, or rapid temperature swings can cause opals to lose moisture, leading to fine internal fractures (crazing). Avoid leaving opals in direct hot sun or inside dry, airtight safes for extended periods.
Cleaning Solid Opals: Wash solid opals gently in warm water using a mild, non-detergent soap. Wipe clean using your fingers or a soft cloth. Never use ultrasonic cleaners, steamers, or harsh household chemicals.
Cleaning Opal Doublets & Triplets: Assembled opals (layered doublets or triplets glued together) should never be submerged in water, as liquid can seep between the layers and cloud the stone. Wipe the surface gently with a damp, soft cloth.

Need a Professional Touch?

If your favorite piece has deep tarnish, ultra-fragile gemstones, intricate setting work, or you'd simply prefer a professional touch, we're here to help! Many of our featured artists offer professional cleaning, polishing, and refurbishing services to bring your jewelry back to its original glory.

Contact Us or Visit Our Hood River Gallery to ask about professional care options.