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Is hand sanitiser RUINING your jewellery?

Is hand sanitiser RUINING your jewellery?

Founder of fine jewellery brand Fenton, Laura Lambert (fentonand.co), said that alcohol-based hand sanitiser will not in itself have a detrimental effect on gold and platinum jewellery. To get more news about unique jewelry online customization, you can visit jewelryhunt.net official website.

She said that when the alcohol in hand sanitiser has evaporated, there is a chance of a residual film layer will contribute to dulling the brilliance of the gemstone. Laura said: 'It is hence recommended to soak the ring in lukewarm soapy water and then rinse it with clear cold water to remove any surface layer. Dab the ring in a soft, absorbent cloth after the final rinse, to avoid any water stains on the surface.'

She added that if any chlorine-based hand sanitisers should 'be avoided to protect the integrity of the gold'. Although chlorine hand sanitisers are not very common, and are more likely to be used in a medical setting, you might want to think twice before doing any cleaning with bleach without rubber gloves.

She said: 'Chlorine will attack copper alloys in the gold as well as solder joints (for example, if you have had your ring resized), and can lead to discolouration or brittleness in the metal. 'In platinum, it can attack alloys, especially if the platinum contains silver or gold alloys, and can lead to brittleness in the metal.'

Laura added that it is the same for rubies, sapphires, garnets and aquamarines but you should avoid any chemical coming into contact with emeralds because it can lead to irreparable damage.

If your emerald has a build up of dirt behind the gemstone, the best way to clean it is with a soft toothbrush and some tepid water. She said: 'If using chlorine for a prolonged period, it can cause irreparable damage to your jewellery - both metal and gemstone. 'Cleaning and repolishing the metal are options, but if the metal has become brittle this will be obsolete.'

She added that the best way to protect your jewellery is to remove it prior to using hand sanitiser or clearning, and ensuring your hands are completely dry before putting it back on. Michelle Tacdol, jewellery buyer and designer at jewellerybox.co.uk, spoke of the importance of the way you store your jewellery.

She said that it is best to keep your jewellery in a fabric-lined case to minimise any risk of damage. Michelle said: 'It is also important to store your jewellery in a sealed container to minimise airflow and reduce tarnishing.'

She added: 'Ensure that your jewellery is separated from each other, for example through using a case with multiple compartments, to prevent any scratches or necklaces and bracelets becoming tangled.' Research from luxury UK jewellery retailer Goldsmiths showed that a fifth of UK adults admit to never cleaning their jewellery while nearly 70 per cent don't remove their jewellery when baking or cooking, decorating or going to the gym.

It found that 63 per cent choose to clean their jewellery themselves at home, while 9 per cent take them to a professional jeweller to be cleaned.

Goldsmiths said: 'Whilst cleaning your jewellery at home is safe to do and will not damage the items, experts at Goldsmiths advise that it's essential that you use the correct materials.

'Failing to do your research before you start the cleaning process can actually lead you damage your precious items, which could be costly to repair.'

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