At AfroBoho we would like to see your piece of jewelry become a family heirloom. That would require taking some basic care of your jewelry and the gemstones involved. We have some basic rules, and then also relied on ChatGPT to have its say. Be sensible. Don’t wear beautifully stringed necklaces and bracelets to go swimming in the sea, or for that matter a river or a pool. No matter the quality, stone can cut through string at any time. So understand the environment you are in. Same as a crowded dancefloor. Rather wear your cheap costume jewelry. Also, don’t garden with a fabulous gemstone bracelet, but maybe a necklace is fine. Hardness of the gem matters – you can be more robust with sapphire or ruby than say, tourmaline. Organic gems like pearl and coral are porous and will soak up any liquid you expose them to. Yet at the same time, I wear certain pendants and bracelets pretty much permanently, as I have through the years become acquainted with them. When you buy a beautiful piece of jewelry from us, get to know the gemstones you have purchased, and learn to care for them. We are here to help and advise at info@afroboho.co.za. And pretty please do not let inexperienced artisans clean or fix your gems without consulting us first.

Over to ChatGPT:

Welcome to our Jewelry Care page at AfroBoho, we want your pieces to stay as dazzling as the day you received them. Proper care and maintenance will help ensure the longevity and beauty of your jewelry. Here are some helpful guidelines on how to care for your precious pieces:

General Care

1. Storage: Store your jewelry in a clean, dry place such as a fabric-lined jewelry box or in a compartmentalized organizer. Individual pouches or soft-lined compartments are ideal for keeping pieces from scratching or tangling with each other.

2. Cleaning: Gently wipe your jewelry with a soft, lint-free cloth after each wear. This will remove any oils or residues and help maintain its shine. For deeper cleaning, use a mild soap and water solution and a soft brush, but ensure you check the specific cleaning instructions for different materials (listed below).

3. Avoid Chemicals: Exposure to chemicals can damage or discolor precious metals like gold, silver, and platinum, and may harm some colored gems. Avoid wearing jewelry when using household cleaners or while swimming in chlorinated water.

4. Handle with Care: Be mindful when putting on jewelry and avoid wearing it during activities that could expose it to risk, like heavy lifting, gardening or rough sports.

Specific Material Care

– Silver Jewelry: Tarnish is a common issue with silver. Store silver in airtight bags with anti-tarnish strips to keep it looking bright. Polishing silver gently with a special silver cloth will keep it shining.

– Gold Jewelry: Keep gold away from harsh chemicals and clean it with a solution of soap and warm water. Use a soft brush to gently scrub the piece, then rinse and dry thoroughly.

– Gemstones: Different gemstones require different care. Soft gemstones like opal or pearl need a gentle touch, avoid harsh cleaning methods and sudden temperature changes. Hard gemstones like diamonds, sapphires, and rubies can be cleaned more rigorously.

– Organic Gems: Organic gems like pearls and corals are very delicate and can be easily scratched or damaged. Wipe them with a soft cloth after wearing, and only use cleaners specifically labeled safe for pearls. Above that they are porous and especially susceptible to chemicals and lotions. They should be the last thing you put on and the first you take off.

Professional Care

– Regular Check-ups: Just like visiting the dentist, periodic professional cleanings and inspections will keep your jewelry in optimal condition. This can help spot wear and tear, or the loosening of clasps and settings before you lose a stone.

– Professional Cleaning: For deep cleaning, particularly for intricate pieces or delicate materials, a professional cleaning once a year is recommended.

Repair Services

If you notice any damage to your jewelry, such as a loose gemstone or a broken clasp, it’s important to stop wearing the piece until it can be professionally repaired. Please feel free to contact us at info@afroboho.co.za so that we may guide you to the best way to repair your jewelry.

Thank you for choosing AfroBoho! With proper care, your jewelry should last a lifetime.