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Filigree Jewelry is a true work of art, known for its delicacy and intricate beauty. Created using the artisanal, manual technique of interweaving metal wires to form elaborate patterns, these pieces display an extraordinary level of detail. However, to keep your filigree jewellery in perfect condition and preserve its beauty and durability, it is essential to follow a proper maintenance and cleaning routine. In this article, we will look at the essential care to ensure that your filigree jewellery remains stunning and perfect for years to come.
The Delicacy of Filigree Jewelry
Filigree is a goldsmithing technique that requires skill and precision, as it involves the manipulation of thin wires and metal balls, usually gold or silver, joined by welding using heat. These pieces often feature intricate, delicate details, making them especially sensitive to damage. It is therefore essential to take a careful approach when handling and storing your filigree Jewellry.
Tips for Storage and Maintenance
1. Proper Storage
Proper storage is crucial to protecting your filigree jewels. Avoid mixing them with other pieces of jewellery that could cause scratches and damage. Opt for jewellery boxes with individual compartments or soft fabric bags to keep the pieces separate and protected. With all orders, LoveitPortugal provides an individual jewellery box, which, in addition to being beautiful, is also suitable for storing your filigree jewel.
2. Avoid Exposure to Chemicals
Chemicals present in perfumes, lotions, cleaning products and even seawater can damage metal and filigree. Therefore, we recommend that you remove your jewels before applying these products or entering sea water. Before putting them back on, make sure your skin is dry and free from chemical residues before putting on your filigree Jewellry.
3. Regular Cleaning
Regular cleaning is essential to maintain the condition and beauty of your filigree jewellery. Use a small soft brush to remove dust and a soft, lint-free cloth to gently clean your pieces. Avoid using harsh cleaning products or abrasive brushes as they can scratch the surface and damage the delicate filigree.
Specific Cleaning for Filigree Jewelry
In addition to regular cleaning with a brush and soft tissue, you should follow some specific steps to ensure that your filigree jewellery remains stunning:
1. Cleaning Silver Filigree Jewelry:
Over time, silver has a tendency to darken and sometimes oxidize. We recommend that you wear your Filigree jewellery frequently, as this will guarantee a better condition for your pieces. Avoid excessive exposure to air of frequently used silver pieces, and after use, store them in the jewellery box provided by LoveitPortugal.
1.1. Cleaning with Warm Water:
Fill a bowl with warm water and add a small amount of mild detergent. Dip your filigree jewellery into the solution and let it soak for a few minutes. Then, use a soft brush to brush the jewellery and remove dust. Rinse with clean water and then dry very well with a soft tissue.
1.2. Cleaning with Sodium Bicarbonate:
Baking soda is a gentle cleaning agent that can be used to remove dirt and oxidation from silver filigree jewellery.
Place some warm-hot water in a bowl, enough to cover the jewellery you want to clean. Add salt and aluminium foil cut into small strips. Then, submerge your jewellery and let it rest for 5 minutes. When you see that the original silver shine has returned, you can remove the jewellery. Then rinse the jewellery. Remove the salt by running it under cold running water. Then dry the jewellery with a soft cloth. Your silver jewellery should now be as good as new. If you still notice signs of stains, repeat the process until it is clean.
Filigree is delicate, so remember that when using any cleaning method, it is important to be gentle and avoid applying excessive force.
2. Cleaning Gold Filigree Jewelry:
Unlike silver, gold resists age well and does not develop a dull, dull finish over time. However, it can still accumulate dirt with normal use. To restore the shine of your gold jewellery, there are just a few easy steps to implement:
2.1. Wash with water and dishwashing detergent
Place a few drops of liquid detergent in a bowl of warm water (avoid tap water) and mix. Place the jewellery in this mixture and let it soak for 15 minutes. Clean the pieces with a soft cloth and then use a soft brush to remove any remaining dust. Pass the jewellery well again with a soft tissue and you will see how its original shine has returned.
Should your gold jewellery contain precious stones, never use hot water, only warm water, to avoid the risk of cracking them.
2.2. Clean jewellery with toothpaste
Mix a small amount of toothpaste in a bowl, about 2cm with water.
Using a soft toothbrush, gently scrub your gold piece to remove any accumulated dirt. Finally, rinse the jewellery well in clean water and dry it with a soft, dry cloth. You will see how the original shine has returned!
Additional Tips
Avoid submitting your filigree jewellery:
- sporting activities that involve sudden movements and contact.
- Intense heat: Avoid exposing your jewellery to extreme temperatures, such as excessive heat, as this can affect the integrity of the metals.
Treat your Filigree jewellery properly and you will see how it will last for many years and brighten your look!
