Both lab-grown and natural diamonds are considered the hardest natural gemstone. Diamonds are remarkably durable but still benefit from regular care.

Clean your diamonds monthly using warm water mixed with a drop of mild washing-up liquid. Gently scrub with a soft toothbrush, paying attention to the back of the stone where oils and dirt accumulate. Rinse thoroughly in warm water and dry with a lint-free cloth.

Avoid harsh chemicals and store diamonds separately to prevent them scratching other jewellery.

These stunning gemstones are second only to diamonds in hardness, making them ideal for everyday wear.

Clean sapphires using the same warm soapy water method as diamonds, ensuring you reach behind the setting where dust collects.

Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe for sapphires, but avoid them if your stone has been treated or has inclusions.

Keep sapphires away from harsh chemicals like bleach and remove them before swimming in chlorinated pools.

Delicate and organic, pearls require gentle care to preserve their lustre.

After each wear, wipe with a soft, damp cloth to remove body oils and perfume that can cause yellowing. Apply pearls last when dressing, after cosmetics and perfume. Never soak pearls, use ultrasonic cleaners, or expose them to chlorine or chemicals. Store in a soft pouch away from other jewellery, in a slightly humid environment – never airtight containers.

Have strands professionally restrung annually if worn regularly, watching for loose knots that indicate immediate restringing is needed.

This luxurious metal combines beauty with durability, containing 75% pure gold.

Clean 18k gold jewellery by soaking in warm soapy water for 10-15 minutes, then gently brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Rinse thoroughly and buff dry with a soft cloth.

White gold pieces may need re-rhodium plating every 12-18 months to maintain their bright finish.

Store gold pieces in individual soft pouches to prevent scratching.

Naturally white and incredibly durable, platinum develops a unique patina over time that many consider desirable.

For routine cleaning, use the warm soapy water method and polish with a jewellery cloth.

Platinum can be professionally repolished to restore its original high shine if preferred.

This dense metal is highly resistant to tarnish and chemical damage, making it ideal for everyday wear. However, it can still show fine scratches, which are actually just displaced metal rather than metal loss.

These captivating gemstones need careful handling due to their high water content and softer composition.

Clean only with a soft, damp cloth – never use ultrasonic cleaners, steam, or chemicals which can cause cracking. Avoid sudden temperature changes and remove before hot showers or saunas.

Remove opals before cleaning, gardening, or impact activities as they chip more easily than harder gems.

Check settings regularly as opals may loosen over time.