Make Your Jewelry Last Longer with These Simple Care Tips
Imitation jewelry — whether it's Kundan, Meenakari, American Diamond, or Temple jewelry — is crafted to look stunning without the price of fine jewelry. But like all beautiful things, it needs a little love to stay that way. Follow these simple care tips to keep your pieces looking as good as the day you bought them.
1. Keep It Dry
Moisture is the number one enemy of imitation jewelry. Water, sweat, and humidity can cause the metal base to tarnish, stones to loosen, and enamel work (like Meenakari) to fade or chip.
- Always remove your jewelry before bathing, swimming, or exercising.
- If your jewelry gets wet, pat it dry immediately with a soft cloth — never rub.
- Avoid wearing it on very humid days for extended periods.
2. Keep It Away from Chemicals
Perfumes, hairsprays, lotions, and cleaning products contain chemicals that can damage the finish and stones of your jewelry.
- Always apply perfume and hairspray before putting on your jewelry, not after.
- Remove jewelry before applying moisturiser or sunscreen.
- Never use chemical cleaners or ultrasonic cleaners on imitation pieces.
3. Store It Properly
How you store your jewelry matters as much as how you wear it.
- Store each piece separately in a soft pouch or individual compartment to prevent scratching.
- Keep jewelry in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight — UV rays can fade coloured stones and enamel.
- Use silica gel packets in your jewelry box to absorb moisture.
- Avoid storing in plastic bags, which can trap moisture and cause tarnishing.
4. Clean Gently After Every Wear
A quick clean after each wear goes a long way in maintaining your jewelry's shine.
- Use a soft, dry cloth to gently wipe away oils and dust after wearing.
- For a deeper clean, use a slightly damp cloth and dry immediately.
- For American Diamond pieces, a soft toothbrush dipped in mild soapy water can help restore sparkle — rinse quickly and dry thoroughly.
- Never soak Kundan or Meenakari jewelry in water, as this can damage the lac base and enamel work.
5. Handle with Care
Imitation jewelry is delicate by nature. A little mindfulness goes a long way.
- Put on your jewelry last when getting dressed, and take it off first when undressing.
- Avoid pulling or tugging on chains and delicate settings.
- Don't sleep or exercise while wearing your pieces.
- Keep Kundan and Temple jewelry away from hard surfaces that can chip the stones.
6. Special Care for Specific Styles
- Kundan Jewelry: The lac base used in Kundan settings is sensitive to heat and water. Store flat and avoid pressure on the stones.
- Meenakari Jewelry: The enamel work is beautiful but fragile. Handle gently and avoid knocking against hard surfaces. Explore our Meenakari Necklaces and Meenakari Earrings.
- American Diamond Jewelry: The stones are durable but the settings can loosen over time. Check prongs periodically and avoid harsh chemicals. Browse our American Diamond Necklaces and American Diamond Earrings.
- Temple Jewelry: Gold-plated temple pieces should be wiped with a dry cloth only. Avoid water and chemicals to preserve the plating.
When to Retire a Piece
Even with the best care, imitation jewelry has a natural lifespan. If stones are falling out, the metal is heavily tarnished, or the plating has worn through, it may be time to replace the piece. The good news? With ONE ELEVEN's range of premium imitation jewelry, you can refresh your collection without breaking the bank.