Jewelry has always been my passion. I love wearing it, but I also do my best to preserve it. Cleaning your jewelry is essential to maintain the clarity and quality of gems. Amid the current COVID-19 crisis, washing and sanitizing your hands regularly is considered to be an effective method of reducing the risk of catching and spreading the virus. But did you know that the use of sanitizers and soaps could damage jewelry?
It’s best to remove your rings, bracelets and cuffs before sanitizing your hands, and it’s just as important to disinfect them before you wear them again. Using a cleaning solution is a great way to ensure that, but opt for the kind that’s compatible with the elements in the jewelry piece. For example, it’s better to avoid the use of alcohol-based cleaning solutions for Mother of Pearl, Malachite, Lapis Lazuli and some other gemstones, as they’re sensitive to it.
The Maldives Collection 2020
For diamonds, use soapy water and a soft-bristled toothbrush, so that you can clean the crevices, along with the gold. The toothbrush will help you access the areas that are hard to reach otherwise and get rid of the dirt that accumulates on jewelry surfaces over time.
Avoid the use of alcohol-based cleaning solutions for Mother of Pearl, Malachite and Lapis Lazuli
Tread even more carefully with vintage pieces, as the appearance of stones can be easily affected when exposed to harsh chemicals and even water. If you’ve stepped outside, don’t forget to take your jewelry off once home and clean it before popping it back on.
The Maldives Collection 2020
On the business front, the luxury sector, just as any other industry, has been hugely impacted in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak. I see this as a challenge for my jewelry brand and have been focusing on developing my business through different avenues, such as social media and online shopping.
For diamonds, use soapy water and a soft-bristled toothbrush, so that you can clean the crevices
The Maldives Collection 2020
We’ve been sharing images and videos of how the jewelry looks when worn and offering home delivery with necessary precautions, which are great ways to show clients that the brand is addressing the situation and will maintain their longstanding trust. And when we talk about trust, you should keep the faith and know that we’ll overcome this unprecedented situation. Stay safe and adorn with care.
Illustration by Alicia Goveas. Noora Shawqi is an Emirati jewelry designer, a fine jewelry blogger and the founder of her eponymous jewelry brand that launched in 2018. Her fine jewelry collections are inspired by her love of travel and feature exquisite materials and gemstones. Noora is certified as a Diamond Graduate from the Gemological Institution of America, has received a Diamond Grader certification from the International Gemological Institute, and has completed a course at L’Ecole Van Cleef & Arpels. Visit Noorashawqi.com and follow @By.noorashawqi on Instagram.
