How to care for bracelets properly and keep them shining for generations

Luxury bracelets made of precious metals and stones are an investment in beauty that can last for centuries. Proper care will ensure that your gold bracelet or diamond tennis bracelet will shine as bright as the first day.

Bracelets are among the most worn pieces of jewellery. This means they are constantly in contact with your skin and the elements. That is why they require regular and thoughtful care that respects both the material they are made of and the way the gemstones are set.

When to take off the women's bracelet and when to leave it on

Although luxury bracelets are designed for everyday wear, there are situations when it's better to take them off to prevent damage or loss. While gold bracelets are durable, they are not indestructible.

• Housework and chemicals pose the greatest risk. Always remove the bracelet when using cleaning products, bleaching compounds or harsh soaps. These substances can erode the surface of precious metals, cause loss of luster in rhodium-plated white gold, or even damage some gemstones. Be especially careful with bracelets with pearls or opals, which are sensitive to acids.
• Sports activities and physical work are another risk. Bumps, scratches and excessive strain can damage the delicate links of the chain or loosen the setting of the stones. It is safer to remove the bracelet when visiting the gym, working in the garden or playing intense sports.
• Swimming pools, saunas and spa treatments are also not ideal environments for luxury jewellery. Chlorine in pool water can damage some metals, high temperatures can cause deformation, and humid environments accelerate corrosion processes, especially in less noble metals.

Basic bracelet cleaning can be done at home

Different wristband materials require specific approaches:

• Gold bracelets of all colours

To clean gold bracelets, prepare a solution of lukewarm water and a few drops of mild, fragrance-free soap. Soak the bracelet for 15-20 minutes to loosen any accumulated dirt. Then gently clean it with a soft toothbrush - a soft-bristled baby toothbrush is ideal. Pay special attention to the areas around the chain links where dirt often accumulates.

After cleaning, rinse the bracelet thoroughly in clean, lukewarm water and dry it with a soft cloth that does not let the fibres out. White gold plated with rhodium can lose its shine over time - in this case, it is advisable to see a specialist for a new plating.

• Bracelets with diamonds and precious stones

Althoughdiamonds are the hardest natural material, they attract grease from the skin, which reduces their characteristic sparkle. Clean them in the same way as gold, but pay special attention to the area around the stone setting. You can use a toothbrush to gently clean the area under the stone.

Tennis bracelets with a range of diamonds require extra care - always check after cleaning to see if any of the stones have come loose. Sapphires and rubies are durable but should not be exposed to sudden temperature fluctuations. Emeralds often contain natural cracks, so treat them very gently and do not use ultrasonic cleaners.

• Special materials

Pearls require the most gentle approach. Clean them only with a slightly dampened soft cloth and never immerse them in water. Pearls are of organic origin and can be damaged by chemicals and ordinary soap. After wearing, simply wipe them with a dry cloth.

When to contact a jeweller

• See a jeweller immediately if the stone becomes loose in the setting - even a small loosening can lead to its loss.
• Damage to the clasp can not only cause discomfort when wearing, but also risk losing the entire bracelet.
• Visible cracks or deformities require immediate attention from a professional.
• Loss of shine that cannot be restored by home cleaning often signals the need for professional polishing or refinishing. Particularly with white gold, occasional rhodium plating is necessary to maintain the original beauty.

What professional cleaning involves

Professional cleaning uses ultrasonic technology and special solutions to safely remove all impurities. Experts will inspect all joints, stone settings and mechanical parts. If necessary, they will also reinforce loose parts or replace worn components.

Surface polishing will remove minor scratches and restore the original shine. For bracelets with a combination of different finishes, this process is particularly important to maintain the contrast between the matte and polished surfaces.

Where to keep the bracelets

How you store your bracelets when you're not wearing them has a major impact on their durability and appearance. The ideal storage space should meet a few basic requirements:

• Protection from moisture and dust is a priority. Excessive moisture can corrode metals and damage some stones, while dust acts as a fine abrasive. Investing in a quality jewelry box with separate compartments lined with velvet will quickly pay off.
• Store each bracelet separately so they don't scratch each other. Diamond bracelets should be stored separately from other jewelry, as diamonds can easily scratch other stones and metals. We recommend special soft-set cases for tennis bracelets.
• Stable temperature and protection from light are other important factors. Avoid storing in the bathroom, where humidity fluctuates, or in places exposed to direct sunlight, which can affect the color of some stones.

BENY's lifetime guarantee as an insurance of quality

We offer a lifetime guarantee on jewellery purchased from BENY, which includes professional cleaning and basic maintenance. This service represents our confidence in the quality of the jewellery we offer, while ensuring that your investment in beauty is protected for as long as you wear it.