Your Antique Jewelry Likes to be Pampered Too!
Cleaning antique jewelry,antique vintage costume jewelry, antique sterling silver jewelry
Any kind of jewelry fascinates women, never mind if it is contemporary
or ancient! The trend of exhibiting antique gold and silver ornaments
especially is fast catching on, considering that few modern craftsmen
can imitate the marvelous creations of those times! On the practical side,
such items can rake in large profits in times of need. Thus, if you are
the proud owner of such antique jewelry, then it is imperative that you
lavish good care on them.
Tarnish is one of the greatest foes of antique jewelry—this can lead to
deterioration if not treated regularly. Yes, different materials do require
different ways of handling, for the problems presented by each can vary.
(1) Let us start with your silver pieces. You might discover that while
some are made of solid silver, there are a few that are electro-plated
(silver coating over base metal). Now, when you try to remove tarnish
from silver-plated jewelry, do not be too harsh with your rubbing and
scrubbing. You might end up with the bottom coating revealed for all eyes
to see. Do not expect a good value for damaged items if you are planning
to dispose of them.
Even cleaning of solid silver jewelry is better attempted only if you
are confident of not damaging your pieces; otherwise, let a professional
take over. Use a very soft cloth for polishing. Are you planning to store
the items after cleaning them? Wrap each one in acid-free paper first,
and provide additional wrapping with an old newspaper. The storage area
should be dry, dark and cool.
(2) Gold can be high in density and extremely hard; it can be soft too.
Softer gold is targeted by tarnish more easily, considering that it is
combined with other materials. “Hard” gold is not free from problems either—it
can get scratched quite easily.
Anyway, the amount of care you lavish on your gold jewelry is proportional
to the karat. If it is 24-karat gold, you are going to be exceedingly
careful when you are cleaning your precious stuff! Cleaners which tend
to be abrasive in nature are to be avoided. Go in for a very soft toothbrush
(meant for babies and children) along with warm soapy water. It is still
advisable to allow a professional to handle your antique gold.
(3) Sometimes, jewelry comes with precious stones studded in the pieces.
If the casings holding the stones in place get loose, the stones will
fall out. And that will be the end of your pride and joy! Again, let a
conservator take over the job, since the value of your antiques will reduce
if there are visible damages. You will have no one to blame but your carelessness!
