Top Tips For Preserving Enamel Jewellery & London Badges

Taking care of enamel jewellery is essential to maintain its beauty and durability. The significance of well-preserved glazed pieces is recognized by Roman Tavast, a firm that is committed to providing clients with high-quality, personalized products like coated orders, medals, and badges that are meticulously crafted.

Items with a coloured enamel coating require specific care techniques to ensure they remain in pristine condition for years. This guide will offer practical advice on cleaning, storing, and handling common issues like chipping or fading.

What Is Enamel Jewellery?

Enamel jewellery is created by fusing powdered glass onto a metal surface at high temperatures. This process results in a beautiful, colourful finish that can be highly durable. However, the glass-like coating is also prone to certain issues, such as chipping or fading, if not properly cared for. Knowing how to preserve and maintain your enamel jewellery and lapel pin badges from London is key to ensuring their longevity.

Cleaning Techniques for Enamel Jewellery

Proper cleaning is crucial for keeping coloured pieces looking their best. Here are some tips on how to clean your enamel items safely:

1. Use Gentle Cleaners

• Always use a mild soap or a specialised jewellery cleaner that is safe for enamel. Harsh chemicals can damage the demanding surface.
• Mix a small amount of mild soap with lukewarm water, and use a soft cloth or a very soft toothbrush to gently clean the surface.

2. Avoid Abrasive Materials

• Never use abrasive materials, such as scouring pads or stiff brushes, as they can scratch the glass-like coating.
• Stick to soft cloths or microfiber towels to polish your jewellery.

3. Rinse Thoroughly

• For the best results, use lukewarm water to rinse the item after cleaning.
• Dry the piece completely with a soft, lint-free cloth to prevent water spots.

4. Regular Polishing

• To keep your enamel jewellery looking beautiful and free of surface oils and dust, polish it often with a soft cloth.

Proper Storage of Enamel Jewellery

Storing your coloured items correctly is another important aspect of preserving their condition. Improper storage can lead to scratches, chipping, or fading. Here are some tips on how to store your enamel jewellery:

1. Keep pieces separate: Store enamel jewellery separately from other pieces to avoid scratches or damage. Consider using individual pouches or soft-lined compartments. If you need to store multiple pieces together, wrap each item in a soft cloth or tissue paper.
2. Avoid direct sunlight: The gradual fading of enamel can be brought about by prolonged exposure to direct sunshine. Store your jewellery in a cool, dark place to preserve its colour. A box with a soft lining and a secure closure is ideal for protecting pieces from light and dust.
3. Store in a dry environment: Enamel can be sensitive to moisture, so it is important to store your items in a dry environment. Consider using silica gel packets in your jewellery box to absorb excess moisture and protect the coloured coating from humidity.

Handling Common Issues: Chipping and Fading

Enamel jewellery, while durable, can sometimes suffer from chipping or fading. Knowing how to handle these issues can help extend the life of your pieces.

Prevention of Chipping

To prevent chipping, it is essential to avoid dropping or knocking your coated jewellery against hard surfaces, as these impacts can cause chips or cracks in the glazed finish. When putting on or taking off these pieces, ensure you do so over a soft surface, such as a carpet or a towel, to minimize the risk of damage if the jewellery is accidentally dropped.

How to Address Chips

If your item does chip, it is advisable to seek professional repair. A jeweller with experience in working with coated surfaces can often restore the piece by reapplying and firing a new layer. Avoid attempting DIY repairs, as improper techniques can worsen the damage or alter the appearance of the product.

Prevention of Fading

To prevent fading, it is crucial to avoid exposing your jewellery to harsh chemicals, such as chlorine or household cleaning agents. Additionally, remove these pieces before swimming, bathing, or engaging in activities that could expose them to chemicals or excessive moisture, as this can contribute to the degradation of the coloured coating.

Regular Maintenance and Professional Care

Even with the best care, enamel jewellery may still require professional maintenance over time. Regular inspections and professional cleanings can help keep your jewellery in top condition.

1. Regular Inspections

• Periodically inspect your pieces for signs of wear, such as chips, scratches, or loose settings.
• Early detection of issues allows for timely repairs, which can prevent further damage.

2. Professional Cleaning

• Take your enamel jewellery to a professional jeweller for cleaning and polishing at least once a year. They have the expertise and tools to clean the items without risking damage.
• Professional cleanings can also help maintain the lustre and colour of the coloured coating, ensuring it looks as vibrant as the day you bought it.

3. Restoration Services

• If your enamel jewellery becomes damaged, consider professional restoration services. A skilled jeweller can repair chips, reapply glass-like coating, and restore the piece to its original beauty.
• Restoration can extend the life of your precious items, allowing you to enjoy them for many years to come.

Caring for enamel jewellery requires attention to detail and a gentle touch. By following the tips outlined above, you can ensure that your coloured pieces remain in mint condition for years. Whether it is through careful cleaning, proper storage, or handling common issues like chipping or fading, taking the time to care for your enamel jewellery will preserve its beauty and value.

Ensuring the longevity of your glazed pieces helps maintain their unique charm and keeps them looking as beautiful as ever.