Jewelry Care Tips and Recommendations

Nugent Jewelry is committed to providing the highest quality jewelry designed for both comfort and style, suitable for every day wear.

We recommend the following tips to care for and clean our sterling silver and vermeil gold gemstone jewelry to protect these pieces and keep them looking beautiful and in excellent condition for years to come.


Store properly: To prevent damage, store jewelry in a dry, dark place, away from sunlight and air. A jewelry box or small pouch can help keep jewelry away from other pieces that could scratch or otherwise cause damage.


Clean gently: To maintain the natural shine of sterling silver and vermeil gold we recommend gently rubbing the piece with a soft polishing cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or brushes, as they can scratch the surface of the jewelry. We do not recommend a chemical bath as this can affect the gemstone’s integrity and appearance.


We use an eco-friendly, anti-tarnish dip coating on our jewelry which can be scratched and damaged by polish or abrasive brushes. Learn more about this coating and why our silver is different in this short video.  If any wet cleaning is necessary, we suggest a solution of mild soap and warm water, and an extra soft bristle brush. Gently wipe dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.


Avoid contact with chemicals: Keep jewelry away from chemicals such as cleaning products, perfumes, hand and body lotions, hairspray, or hand sanitizer as this can cause discoloration and damage. Be mindful of jewelry in contact with sweat, lotions, sunscreen, etc. and be sure to clean when removing for the day to ensure the piece retains its luster and protect from lasting damage.


Avoid exposure to heat: Heat can damage gemstones and cause them to crack or discolor. Avoid wearing gemstone jewelry in hot or humid environments such as saunas or hot tubs.


Remove jewelry before bathing, showering, or swimming: Chlorine and saltwater can damage jewelry and some stones can be affected by exposure to water. Do not immerse gemstone jewelry in water.


Protect from impact: Gemstones can chip or break if they are hit or dropped. Take care when handling or wearing, and avoid exposing to rough surfaces or hard impacts.

Take extra care with certain gemstones: Each gemstone has its own unique properties, so it’s important to research and follow specific care instructions to ensure their longevity and natural beauty. Here are a few gemstones that require extra care due to their specific characteristics:

  • Opals are delicate and can be easily damaged by heat, sudden temperature changes, harsh chemicals, and water which may cause them to crack, become cloudy, or lose their play-of-color. To care for opal jewelry, avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures, remove it before swimming or showering, and store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. It's also recommended to clean opal jewelry gently using a soft, slightly damp cloth. Do not immerse opals in water.
  • Emeralds are relatively soft gemstones compared to other precious stones, making them prone to scratching and chipping. They are also sensitive to heat, chemicals, and ultrasonic cleaning. To care for emerald jewelry, avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures, harsh chemicals, and ultrasonic cleaners. Clean emeralds gently using a soft cloth or a mild soap solution.
  • Tanzanite is another relatively soft gemstone that can be susceptible to scratches and fractures. It is sensitive to heat and sudden temperature changes. When caring for tanzanite jewelry, avoid wearing it during activities that may subject it to impact or abrasion. Store tanzanite jewelry separately from other harder gemstones to prevent scratching, and clean it gently using a soft cloth.
  • Meteorite should be kept dry to prevent rusting. Avoid wearing while swimming, bathing, or engaging in activities that involve excessive sweating or exposure to water. Meteorite jewelry should be stored in a dry environment, preferably in a jewelry box or pouch. Consider adding a desiccant package to absorb any moisture that may be present. A soft polishing cloth can be used to gently wipe the surface to remove any dirt or debris. If necessary, the cloth can be dampened slightly, but ensure it is thoroughly dried afterward to prevent moisture retention.
  • Malachite is susceptible to scratching and damage from heat.
  • Turquoise is a porous gemstone that can absorb liquids and cause it to change color over time. It is also sensitive to heat, sunlight, and chemicals.


We make jewelry that is intended to last for generations. Taking the necessary steps to care for these precious and semi precious stones will ensure their natural beauty lasts.


The majority of our products are handmade, not mass produced. Inclusions and variations are part of what makes each piece unique. If you have a concern about the quality, or have experienced a damaged item we want to know! Contact your account executive or reach out to customer care.

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