At Sandy Times, we talk about jewellery a lot — reviewing the latest collections, keeping up with trends, and diving into young independent brands, unconventional materials, and everything in between. But once you have got your hands on all these precious pieces, how do you keep them shining just as bright years down the line? Don’t worry, I have got you covered. Here are some easy tips to keep your jewellery looking as good as new.

No matter how much we love the sparkle of gold and precious stones, jewellery has its time and place. Take your pieces off before showering, exercising, or swimming — trust me, they will thank you by lasting longer. And when it comes to skincare, sunscreen, and perfume, keep them separate. The rule? Jewellery goes on last, after your skin has had time to absorb all the goodness.

Yes, keeping every piece in its original box can be a bit of a faff, but don’t just chuck everything into a single drawer and hope for the best. Store your pieces away from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat. Soft pouches (often included in the packaging), velvet-lined jewellery boxes with compartments, or trays work best. And if you want to go the extra mile, anti-tarnish strips can help prevent certain metals from oxidising.

A quick wipe with a soft cloth after wearing your jewellery is a good habit — though, let us be honest, life gets busy. At the very least, try to do it semi-regularly to keep oils and dirt from building up.

For deeper cleaning, your best bet is to let the professionals handle it. Many brands offer free maintenance services, so check with the one you bought your piece from — they might just take the hassle out of it for you. If not, jewellery workshops can help.

If you are feeling hands-on, follow the brand’s cleaning recommendations based on your jewellery’s composition. A mild soap and water mix often does the trick, but some pieces need a gentler touch. At-home cleaning kits exist, but don’t go experimenting on heirlooms — certain stones, like pearls, are sensitive to strong formulas. When in doubt, ask customer support before playing chemist.

Jewellery, like humans, needs a check-up every now and then. Make it a habit to take your valuable pieces to a jeweller once a year for a little tender loving care — checking for loose stones, broken clasps, or just a good polish and re-plating when needed. A little upkeep goes a long way in keeping your treasures looking their best.