Fine Jewellery

Caring for Platinum, Gold & Silver Jewellery

Simple, considered care for the
pieces you wear every day.

Learn how to store, clean and protect each metal, and when to seek a jeweller’s advice.

Everyday Care

Put your jewellery on after applying perfume, hand cream and cosmetics. Remove it before swimming, exercising, showering or using household cleaners. A gentle wipe with a soft cloth after wearing helps remove everyday oils and residue.

Store it separately

Keep each piece in its own soft-lined compartment or pouch to help prevent scratches and tangles. Store jewellery somewhere cool and dry, away from direct sunlight and damp.

Before You Clean

Check what the piece is made from and whether it includes gemstones, a plated finish or an antique detail. These can need different care. Avoid bleach, abrasive cleaners and toothpaste; if you’re unsure, ask a jeweller before cleaning.

Care by metal

Platinum jewellery

Platinum is durable and does not tarnish, but fine surface scratches can build a soft patina over time. Clean gently with lukewarm water, mild soap and a soft brush, then dry with a lint-free cloth. A jeweller can restore a brighter finish if you prefer.

Button label

Gold Jewellery

Gold is quite soft, it can scratch, and the alloys mixed with it may be affected by chlorine and harsh chemicals. Remove your jewellery before swimming, cleaning or strenuous activity. For plain gold, use lukewarm soapy water and a soft brush, rinse it in a bowl and dry it thoroughly. If the piece is set with diamonds or gemstones, check that both the stones and setting are suitable for this cleaning method.

Button label

White Gold Jewellery

Many white-gold pieces have a fine rhodium finish that gives them a bright, cool-white appearance. With wear, this finish can gradually wear away, allowing the warmer tone of the gold to show through. This is normal; a jeweller can advise whether the piece would benefit from replating.

Button label

Fine jewellery is made to be worn and enjoyed. A little thoughtful care helps each piece keep its beauty over time.

The Emily Burlington Approach

Silver Jewellery

Silver can tarnish gradually when exposed to air and moisture. Wipe it after wearing and keep it dry in an anti-tarnish pouch or cloth. Avoid silver dips on pieces with gemstones, pearls or special finishes.

A Gentle Clean

For a plain metal piece, use lukewarm water with a little mild soap and a soft cloth. Rinse carefully over a bowl and dry it fully before storing. For jewellery set with stones, or with a delicate finish, check with a jeweller before using water or a brush.

Diamond Information

Clear details for your chosen stone

Personal Guidance

Speak with our jewellery team

Handcrafted in London

Engagement rings made in our workshops

Here After Your Purchase

Support and care for your piece

Common Mistakes To Avoid

Fine jewellery is meant to be worn and enjoyed. To keep your items looking their best and to avoid damage, avoid these common mistakes.

Storing pieces together, where they can scratch or tangle.
Cleaning a set or antique piece without checking what its stones and finish can tolerate.
Using bleach, toothpaste or abrasive household products.
Spraying perfume or applying creams after putting jewellery on.
Wearing jewellery while swimming, exercising or cleaning.

If unsure on how to look after or store your fine jewellery items, always seek the advice of your professional jeweller.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I clean all three metals in the same way?

For simple, unset pieces, lukewarm water, mild soap and a soft brush are a gentle starting point. Gemstones, plating and finishes may need different care.

Will platinum scratch or change colour?

Platinum can develop a soft patina as fine scratches accumulate. It does not tarnish; a jeweller can polish it if you would like a brighter finish. 

How do I remove tarnish from silver?

Use a silver polishing cloth on plain, unplated silver. For pieces with gemstones, plating or an oxidised finish, ask a jeweller first.

Can I wear gold jewellery in a swimming pool?

It is best to remove it. Chlorine and other harsh chemicals can damage precious metals and gold alloys. 

Personal aftercare

If a piece needs a deeper clean, a polish or a setting check, our jewellers can advise on the right care for its metal and design. If you’re unsure what it needs, we’re here to help.

Arrange Your Consultation