Vintage Costume Jewelry Care
Almost all of the pieces of vintage jewelry that you purchase in today's market will need a little bit of special handling to keep them happy, healthy, and ready to wear for many years to come. I will discuss a few Do's and Dont's associated with collecting the old costume jewelry: - NEVER use harsh cleaners or detergents to clean jewelry, but instead GENTLY use warm soapy water and a very soft toothbrush. (Please DO NOT use this technique on old rhinestone jewelry!)
- Always keep your old jewels in a jewelry box of some sort stacked in a single layer. Never put pieces on top of one another as this can scratch or loosen the stones. Humidity also negatively affects old jewelry, but you can combat this by placing a "silica" packet in the jewelry box. These come in new purses, shoes, and other newly purchased articles and are readily available.
- Always put your jewelry on last, AFTER the perfumes and hairspray, as these chemicals can cause dullness and react with some glues causing stones to prematurely fall out.
- Rhinestone jewelry should NEVER be allowed to get wet, as this can adversely effect the foil backing on the stones. I like to use a Q-tip with just a smidgen (a tiny amount) of glass cleaner and gently swab the tops of the rhinestones.
Following these few simple rules can keep your glitzy heirloom beauties in fabulous condition for many more years of enjoyment!
About the Author: Please visit us at The Velveteen Rabbit Antiques for all of your antique & collectibles needs. We offer FREE SHIPPING in the continental US on a large variety of Christmas ornaments & other vintage holiday decorations, estate jewelry, glassware, pottery, and lots more.
More articles by Lisa Monse
Print Article | Download PDF | 25 views | May 30 2008
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