Antique jewelry has already lasted generations. A little care keeps it beautiful for the next ones.

Diamond and gold rings

Many antique rings have been worn every day for more than a century, but the claws that hold the stones are small and wear over time.

Pearls

Pearls love to be worn: the natural oils from your skin help keep their luster. Put them on last, after perfume, hairspray and lotion, which can dull the surface. Wipe them with a soft cloth after wearing, store them flat in a soft pouch away from other jewelry, and have strands checked regularly and restrung when needed.

Silver

Silver tarnishes naturally over time. Clean it with a soft silver polishing cloth, rinse in warm water and dry thoroughly. Avoid silver dips, which are harsh on antique pieces. Silver is a soft metal, so store each piece separately to avoid scratches.

Marcasite

Marcasite jewelry, popular in the 1930s and 1940s, is usually set in silver with tiny stones that can chip or come loose. Never use silver dip or liquids. Clean it with a soft, dry cloth and store it wrapped separately.

Paste, rhinestones and costume jewelry

Paste, diamanté and rhinestone are different names for the same thing: glass stones, often backed with foil. Keep them dry, because moisture behind the stone damages the foil. Wipe with a slightly damp, lint-free cloth only, and avoid storing them in plastic bags for long periods.

Aurora borealis beads

These iridescent beads, popular in the 1950s, have a delicate coating. Never use abrasive cleaners; a soft cloth is all they need.

Gold-tone and silver-tone metal

Plated vintage pieces shouldn’t be immersed in water or cleaned with harsh products, which can damage the surface and loosen set stones.

Storing and traveling

A lined box with compartments stops pieces knocking together, and soft pouches keep them separate when you travel. Avoid storing vintage jewelry in plastic for long periods, and keep it away from perfume and hairspray.