Your Guide To Diamond Jewelry Care
Proper care not only preserves your jewelry’s appearance but also ensures its longevity. Following these simple guidelines will keep your treasured items looking beautiful for years.
Understanding your Jewelry
Diamonds
While extremely hard and resistant to scratching, diamonds can attract dirt, oils, and debris that collect in the prongs and beneath the stone, affecting brilliance and light reflection. Settings can also loosen over time, increasing the risk of stones shifting or falling out, especially in frequently worn pieces. Smaller diamonds, particularly in pavé settings, can be more prone to loosening due to their delicate prongs.
Solid Gold
Both 18K and 14K solid gold are durable materials designed for everyday wear, but like all fine jewelry they will naturally show signs of life over time. Light scratches and a softening of the surface shine are normal, especially with 18K gold, which has a higher pure gold content and is therefore a little softer than 14K. This gradual patina is part of how real gold ages and develops character, reflecting the way the piece is worn and loved rather than a flaw in the material.
Essential Care Tips
Proper Storage
Store your pieces in the packaging provided to preserve their condition. Separate jewelry pieces to prevent gold from scratching.
Regular Cleaning
Each tinxx purchase comes with a soft cloth. Use it to wipe away smudges, fingerprints, and light buildup to keep your jewelry looking its best between deeper cleans.
Deep Cleaning
Soak jewelry in lukewarm water with a few drops of mild dish soap. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently clean around diamond settings and crevices before rinsing and patting dry. Use a soft cloth to wipe down the gold surfaces to remove any skin oils, sweat, and dirt.
Professional Maintenance
Periodic professional cleaning and inspection help ensure diamonds remain secure and settings are in good condition while removing buildup that at-home cleaning may not reach.
What to Avoid
Harsh Chemicals
Keep jewelry away from bleach, chlorine, and household cleaners, which can weaken gold and dull diamonds.
Lotions & Perfumes
Avoid contact with lotions and perfumes to prevent buildup that can cloud gemstones and metals.
Heavy Impact & Sports
Remove jewelry during physical activities to prevent pressure on settings and potential deformation.
Extreme Temperature Changes
Sudden shifts from hot to cold environments (e.g., hot tubs to ice water) can stress metal and affect its structural integrity.
Common Concerns and FAQs
Can I shower with my jewelry from tinxx?
Yes, you can wear your jewelry while showering. However, we recommend removing it to keep your pieces looking their best, as daily wear, soaps, and product buildup may cause dullness over time.
Does chlorine harm gold?
Yes, exposure to chlorine and other harsh chemicals can weaken the metal alloys in the gold and may cause discoloration. Try to remove your jewelry before swimming in pools or hot tubs.
How do I know if my gemstone is secure?
If you notice any movement of the stone or any gaps between the metal and the diamond/gem, it’s time for a professional inspection. Loose prongs can lead to stone loss.
How often should I clean my jewelry at home?
Generally once a month for items you wear frequently. If you wear a piece daily, wiping it down weekly with your tinxx cloth is also recommended.
Will the gold tarnish or discolor?
18KK and 14K gold are both naturally resistant to tarnishing, thanks to their high pure-gold content. That said, all gold jewelry can develop slight discoloration or a softer shine over time with exposure to moisture, lotions, perfume, and everyday wear. This gentle change is normal and part of how fine gold ages, giving each piece character as it is worn and loved.
Should I have my jewelry professionally cleaned and inspected?
Professionals have the equipment and expertise to detect loose stones, damaged prongs, or hidden wear that could cause breakage later on. Periodic professional inspection and cleaning help maintain the integrity of your piece and extend its life.