Handmade gemstone jewelry is more than an accessory — it’s a small work of art. With thoughtful care, your jewelry can remain just as luminous years from now as the day you first wore it. Think of it like how the MOMA takes care of their collection of famous paintings...be gentle and loving to your art pieces and they will last for years to come!
Below, we’re sharing simple, expert-approved tips to help you preserve your gemstone jewelry for a lifetime of wear and meaning.
1. Understand That Gemstones Are Naturally Unique
Semi-precious gemstones are formed by nature, which means they vary in hardness, structure, and sensitivity. While many stones are durable, they are not indestructible.
Some gemstones can be sensitive to:
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Chemicals and acids
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Prolonged exposure to sunlight
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Extreme heat or sudden temperature changes
Knowing that your jewelry is made from natural materials helps set the foundation for mindful care. Not sure how to care for your stones? A quick Google search can solve that problem!
2. Put Jewelry On Last, Take It Off First
One of the easiest ways to protect your jewelry is to be intentional about when you wear it.
Best practice:
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Apply perfume, lotions, hairspray, and oils before putting on your jewelry.
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Remove jewelry before showering, swimming, exercising, or cleaning.
Chemicals, sweat, and moisture can dull gemstones and weaken metal over time—especially in handcrafted settings.
3. Store Each Piece Thoughtfully
Proper storage is just as important as proper wear.
We recommend:
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Storing pieces individually in soft pouches or lined jewelry boxes
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Keeping gemstones separated to avoid scratching
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Choosing a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
Delicate chains and handcrafted settings benefit greatly from being stored flat and untangled. Use your cutie J&E bags to store your favorite pieces!
4. Clean Gently and Infrequently
Handmade gemstone jewelry doesn’t need frequent cleaning, but you can care for it with safe cleaning!
Safe cleaning method:
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Use a soft, lint-free cloth to wipe away oils and residue after wearing.
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For deeper cleaning, use lukewarm water with a small drop of mild soap.
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Gently clean with your fingers or a very soft brush.
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Rinse and pat dry with a clean cloth.
Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and harsh commercial jewelry solutions unless you are certain they are safe for your specific gemstones!
5. Be Mindful of Daily Wear
While gemstone jewelry is designed to be worn and loved, certain activities can put unnecessary stress on delicate pieces.
Remove your jewelry when:
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Lifting heavy objects (no wearing jewelry at the gym, friends!)
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Doing hands-on tasks
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Sleeping
This helps prevent accidental impact, bending, or loosening of stones, whether handmade or not!
6. Check Settings from Time to Time
Because handmade jewelry is crafted with care and precision, it’s still a good idea to occasionally inspect your pieces.
Look for:
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Loose stones/chains
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Bent prongs
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Clasps that don’t close securely
If something feels off, a local jeweler or maker can help ensure your piece remains secure and wearable for years to come. If you are worried about your J&E piece, send an email to hello@jasperandelm.com.
A Final Thought
Caring for your handmade gemstone jewelry is an act of appreciation — for the natural materials, the craftsmanship, and the stories you’ll create while wearing it. With a little intention and gentle care, your jewelry can age beautifully, becoming a timeless part of your personal collection.
After all, true luxury isn’t just about how something looks — it’s about how long it lasts.
