5 Tips to Care for Gold Plated Orchid Jewelery
Gold-plated lacquer orchid jewellery combines timeless elegance with delicate beauty. These captivating pieces are a perfect way to add a touch of nature’s charm to your outfit. But like any treasured possession, proper care is essential to maintain their shine and longevity.
If you’re wondering how to care for your gold-plated lacquer orchid jewellery, you’ve come to the right place! In this blog post, we’ll delve into five key tips that will help you keep your orchid jewellery looking its best for years to come.
From proper storage to gentle cleaning techniques, we’ll cover everything you need to know to ensure your orchid jewellery continues to blossom with beauty.
Tip #1: Store it Properly
Just like any delicate flower, your gold-plated orchid jewellery thrives in the right environment. To ensure it maintains its beauty, proper storage is key. Here’s what you need to know:
Find a cool, dry place: Avoid storing your jewellery in direct sunlight or areas with extreme temperatures. Heat and sunlight can damage the delicate lacquer over time, causing cracks or discolouration.
Choose a soft and safe haven: Opt for a lined jewellery box or a soft pouch made of fabric. This will protect your pieces from scratches and dust accumulation.
Give each piece its space: Avoid storing multiple pieces of orchid jewellery together. This can lead to tangling or scratches, especially for pieces with delicate features.
Tip #2: Cleaning it Gently
Keeping your gold-plated orchid jewellery sparkling doesn’t require harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning methods. In fact, these can damage delicate materials. Here’s how to gently clean your treasured pieces:
- Less is more: For routine cleaning, a soft, damp cloth is all you need. Simply wipe the surface of your jewellery gently to remove dust and fingerprints.
- Avoid harsh chemicals: Stay away from jewellery cleaning solutions, harsh chemicals, or abrasive cleaning cloths. These can damage the lacquer or the gold plating.
- Stubborn dirt? Be gentle: For stuck-on dirt, a mild soap solution can be your friend. Mix a few drops of gentle dish soap with lukewarm water. Dip your soft cloth in the solution, wring it out thoroughly to avoid excess moisture, and then gently wipe the dirty area. Rinse the cloth with clean water and wipe the jewellery again to remove any soap residue.
- Drying is key: Once you’ve cleaned your jewellery, it’s crucial to dry it completely. Use another clean, soft, lint-free cloth to pat it dry. Don’t use paper towels, as they can leave tiny scratches.
Tip #3: Prevent Tarnish on Your Jewellery
The gold plating on your orchid jewellery adds a touch of elegance, but it’s not invincible. Over time, exposure to certain elements can cause it to tarnish and lose its shine. Here’s how to keep your gold plating sparkling:
- Mind your surroundings: Moisture, chemicals, and even certain lotions can contribute to tarnishing. Take off your jewellery before showering, swimming, or applying lotions and cosmetics.
- Sweat can be a foe: Avoid wearing your orchid jewellery during strenuous activities that cause excessive sweating. The combination of sweat and salt can accelerate tarnishing.
- Consider an extra layer of protection (optional): Anti-tarnish strips absorb the gases that cause tarnishing. Placing them near your stored jewellery can offer an extra layer of protection.
Tip #4: Treat it Like a Treasure
Your orchid jewellery is a beautiful and delicate piece, so a little extra care goes a long way when handling it. Here’s how to ensure it stays beautiful for years to come:
- Be gentle when putting it on and off: Take your time when putting on or removing your orchid jewellery. Avoid bending or pulling on the delicate lacquer components, as this could cause cracks or breakage.
- Less force is more: Fasteners like clasps deserve some TLC too. Open and close them carefully to avoid any damage.
- Store it separately when not in use: If your orchid jewellery has dangly elements, consider storing it flat or hanging it to prevent them from getting bent or tangled with other pieces.
Tip #5: Seek Help When Professional Care is Necessary
Even with the best care, everyday wear and tear can take a toll on your gold-plated lacquer orchid jewellery. Here’s when seeking professional help might be the best course of action:
- Significant damage: If your jewellery experiences a major crack, a loose component, or extensive tarnish that home cleaning can’t address, a professional jeweller can offer expert repair or cleaning services.
- Expertise for delicate materials: Jewellers have the knowledge and tools to work on delicate materials like lacquer and gold plating. They can ensure any repairs or cleaning are done meticulously to preserve the beauty and integrity of your piece.
Conclusion
With these five key tips in mind, you’re well on your way to keeping your gold-plated orchid jewellery looking its best for years to come. By following these simple yet effective practices, you can ensure the delicate lacquer and sparkling gold plating continue to grace you with their elegance.
Remember, a little care goes a long way in preserving the beauty of your treasured pieces. For a truly captivating collection of gold-plated lacquer orchid jewellery, La Belle is your one-stop destination.
We offer a stunning selection of handcrafted pieces, each meticulously designed to capture the essence of natural beauty. Visit our website or authorised retailers to browse our collection and discover the perfect orchid jewellery to complement your style.
