How can I avoid damaging my jewellery?
By following a few simple tips you will be able to keep it in its original condition for many years to come. The permanent contact between jewellery and your skin, its exposure to different weather conditions, to pollution or to accidental knocks all mean that it requires care and attention. Here are our recommendations:
- If possible, remove your jewellery before starting any activity that might damage it, such as cooking or playing sport.
- Avoid any contact with cosmetic or household products, since they contain ingredients that could discolour your jewellery.
- Avoid rapid changes of temperature.
- Store your jewellery in an individual case, in their original case or in the separate compartment of a jewellery box. Chains should be closed, wrapped up and laid flat so as to avoid the formation of knots.
How can I maintain my jewellery?
- Regularly check the clasps.
- Squeeze suds gently through fabric - do not rub, wring or stretch the garment.
- Soak your jewellery regularly for a few minutes at a time in warm soapy water (using only soap with a neutral pH). Gently brush it with a very soft toothbrush and then rinse it carefully in warm water. Finally dry and buff the piece with a soft cloth, a chamois leather or a clean microfiber tissue.
- For further information, please visit your nearest Lane’s boutique, or contact our Customer Services.
Gold & Silver
How can I take care of my gold / silver?
- Gold / Silver should be kept absolutely dry. If your silver is used frequently, keep it away from excessive exposure to air and store it in a flannel pouch.
- If your climate is humid, place a small packet of desiccant crystals inside your storage area.
- Avoid contact with rubber bands or other rubber products, as the sulfur in rubber causes tarnishing and corrosion.
Pearl
What are Pearls?
Pearls are organic gems, created when an oyster covers a foreign object with layers of mother-of-pearl. Since natural pearls are now extremely rare, most of today’s pearls are produced using a grafting technique, whereby a shell bead is artificially inserted into the oyster, thus becoming cultured pearls. The quality of pearls is judged by their orient – the iridescence caused by the refraction of light in the layers of mother-of-pearl – and their luster, or surface shine.
How can I take care of my pearls?
- If you wear your pearls regularly, have their stringing checked once a year.
- Avoid spraying perfume on pearls.
- Clean them with a damp cloth, using neither soap nor detergent.
- Store them separately in an individual case. They could potentially be damaged by light, heat or by contact with soap or detergents.
Quality of Pearls
The quality of a pearl is determined by a combination of several elements.
-
Luster
A rich luster is one of the important elements that determine the quality of a pearl. The smoothness of the surface, the evenness of the nacre layer, and the content of impurities are also distinguishing factors.
-
Surface
Surface is the thickness of the nacre. The thicker the nacre, the higher the quality of the pearl.
-
Shape
Generally, the closer to a true sphere, the higher the quality of the pearl. However, non-spherical pearls have an inherent appeal that many people prize in a piece of jewelry.
-
Flaws
Flaws naturally arise in the course of a pearl’s formation, but the fewer the number of flaws, the better the quality.
Pearl Care & Services
- Pearl jewelry requires proper care. Though exceptionally shock resistant and unlikely to crack, pearls are easily scratched. When wearing your pearl necklace or other pearl jewelry, take care that the pearls do not come in contact with sharp objects or other gemstones.
- Pearls are organic gemstones born of pearl oysters. Because heat or ultraviolet rays may cause changes in color or deterioration in quality, do not leave pearls where they will be exposed to direct sunlight or high heat or humidity.
- Pearls are vulnerable to acids and other chemicals. To protect your pearls from the acids in perspiration, we suggest that you wipe them gently with a soft cloth after every wearing. Also take care to avoid contact with vinegar, fruit juices or other acidic substances. Hair spray, perfumes or other cosmetics may dull the radiance of your pearls. Always put on your jewelry after applying makeup and hair products.
- Storage is an important element of pearl care. When storing pearl jewelry, use a compartmentalized jewelry box to keep pearls separate from other items.
- Lane’s offers complimentary restringing services for Lane’s pearl necklaces.