The Milano Blog

Jewelry is not just an accessory; it's an investment, both emotionally and financially. Whether it's a family heirloom or a trendy piece you picked up, proper care can make all the difference in ensuring your jewelry lasts a lifetime. Here's a guide on how to care for your precious pieces and keep them looking as good as new.

1. Store Your Jewelry Properly
• Separate Pieces: To avoid scratches and tangles, store each piece of jewelry separately. Use soft pouches, jewelry boxes with individual compartments, or lined jewelry cases to keep your pieces safe and organized.
• Keep Away from Moisture: Moisture can cause metals to tarnish and gemstones to lose their luster. Store your jewelry in a dry place away from bathrooms and other humid areas.
• Avoid Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can fade gemstones and weaken certain materials. Store your jewelry in a dark place when not in use.
2. Clean Your Jewelry Regularly
• Gentle Cleaning Solution: Use a mild soap or specialized jewelry cleaner to clean your pieces. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive materials as they can damage the metal and gemstones.
• Soft Cloth: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently polish your jewelry after cleaning. This will help remove any residues and restore its shine.
• Professional Cleaning: For intricate pieces or jewelry with delicate gemstones, consider getting them professionally cleaned once a year. Professionals have the expertise and tools to clean your jewelry without causing any damage.
3. Handle with Care
• Put On Last, Take Off First: Perfumes, lotions, and hairsprays can tarnish and dull your jewelry. Always put on your jewelry last when getting ready and take it off first before undressing.
• Avoid Rough Activities: Remove your jewelry before engaging in activities like gardening, exercising, or cleaning. This will help prevent damage from scratches, impacts, and exposure to chemicals.
• Check Regularly: Inspect your jewelry regularly for any loose stones, damaged clasps, or signs of wear and tear. Addressing issues early can prevent further damage and costly repairs.
4. Store Precious Metals Separately
• Different metals have different properties and can react with each other when stored together. Store gold, silver, and platinum jewelry separately to prevent tarnishing and discoloration.
5. Know When to Seek Professional Help
• If you notice any significant damage or if your jewelry has sentimental value, don't hesitate to seek professional help. Jewelers can repair, clean, and restore your pieces to their original glory.

Taking care of your jewelry doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. With regular cleaning, proper storage, and gentle handling, you can ensure your precious pieces last a lifetime and beyond. Remember, each piece tells a story, and by taking care of them, you're preserving those stories for generations to come.

So, the next time you put on your favorite necklace or earrings, take a moment to appreciate their beauty and the memories they hold. And always remember, a little care goes a long way in keeping your jewelry looking as stunning as the day you got it!

Gold has long been treasured for its beauty, rarity, and value. Whether you're shopping for jewelry or investing in precious metals, understanding the differences between solid gold, gold filled, gold vermeil, and gold plated can help you make informed decisions. In this blog post, we'll break down these terms and explore the pros and cons of each option.

Solid Gold

What is it? Solid gold, often referred to as "pure gold," is made entirely of gold and is not mixed with any other metals. The purity of solid gold is measured in karats, with 24 karats being the highest and purest form.

Pros:

• High value and resale potential
• Hypoallergenic for most people
• Doesn't tarnish or fade over time

Cons:

• Expensive
• Soft and can be easily scratched or dented
• Higher karat gold (e.g., 24k) is too soft for most jewelry.

Gold Filled

What is it? Gold filled jewelry is made by bonding a layer of gold to a base metal (usually brass or copper) through heat and pressure. The gold content in gold filled jewelry is significantly higher than in gold plated jewelry.

Pros:

• More affordable than solid gold
• Durable and long-lasting
• Can be polished and cleaned without wearing away the gold layer

Cons:

• Not as valuable as solid gold
• May cause skin reactions in some people with metal allergies

Gold Vermeil

What is it? Gold vermeil is a type of gold plating, but with a thicker layer of gold applied to sterling silver. To be considered vermeil, the gold layer must be at least 2.5 microns thick.

Pros:

• Luxurious appearance of gold at a fraction of the cost
• More durable than regular gold plating
• Suitable for people with sensitive skin (provided they are not allergic to silver)

Cons:

• Requires special care to maintain the gold layer
• Over time, the gold layer may wear off, revealing the silver underneath

Gold Plated

What is it? Gold plated jewelry is made by covering a base metal with a thin layer of gold through a process of electroplating. The gold layer in gold plated jewelry is much thinner than in gold filled or gold vermeil jewelry.

Pros:

• Very affordable
• Wide variety of styles and designs available
• Lightweight and comfortable to wear

Cons:

• Prone to tarnishing, fading, and wearing off over time
• Not suitable for everyday wear or long-term use
• May cause skin irritation or allergic reactions due to the base metals used

How to decide?

Choosing between solid gold, gold filled, gold vermeil, and gold plated jewelry depends on your budget, style preferences, and how you plan to wear and care for the jewelry. Gold filled and gold vermeil provide a more affordable option without compromising too much on quality. Gold plated jewelry, on the other hand, is best suited for occasional wear and may require more frequent replacement due to its lower durability. All three of these options are usually reserved for Fashion Jewelry and are generally set with synthetic or imitation stones.

At Milano, we pride ourselves on offering our customers Solid 14K and 18K gold options. Soldi gold offers the highest value, durability and comfort. We believe if you are shopping to celebrate a milestone, special occasion or a gift for loved ones, Solid Gold is the way to go.

No matter which option you choose, it's essential to care for your gold jewelry properly to maintain its beauty and longevity. Regular cleaning, storing jewelry in a safe place, and avoiding exposure to harsh chemicals can help prolong the life of your gold pieces, ensuring they continue to shine for years to come.