Jewellery Care Guide

Caring for Antique & Vintage Jewellery from Ian Burton Antiques

About Ian Burton Antiques

Established in 1976 | Family-Owned | Based in Stirlingshire, Scotland

At Ian Burton Antiques, we specialise in genuine antique and vintage gold jewellery — the sort of pieces that were made to last, handed down through generations, and deserve to be worn with pride. Every item we offer has been commercially cleaned before sale and is gift-boxed and ready to wear, but proper care will help ensure your jewellery stays beautiful for years to come.

Whether you've chosen a hallmarked Victorian locket, a solid 9ct curb chain, or a gold charm with real history behind it — this care guide will help you protect your investment and enjoy your jewellery as it was meant to be.

Cleaning Your Jewellery

Everything we sell has already been professionally cleaned before dispatch, but here's how to maintain it at home:

🟡 Gold

  • Use a soft, dry cloth to gently buff after wear.
  • For a light clean: warm water + a drop of washing-up liquid + soft brush.

    Rinse, dry well with a soft towel — and that’s it.
  • Don’t use anything abrasive. It can scratch the surface or dull the original finish, especially on older hallmarked items.

⚪ Silver

  • We recommend a silver polishing cloth, not dip or harsh cleaners.
  • Antique silver may develop a darker patina — this is part of its charm. Don’t polish it away unless it’s heavily tarnished.

💎 Stones (Pearls, Coral, Opal, Turquoise, etc.)

  • Never soak these stones — they’re porous and absorb moisture.
  • A lightly dampened cloth is all you should use.
  • Avoid chemicals, steam, or ultrasonic cleaners. These stones are soft and sensitive.

💡 Glued or Paste Stones

  • Found in some antique charms and brooches, particularly early 20th century.
  • Never immerse in water. Stick to a dry cloth only — moisture breaks down old glue.

Storage Advice

All our pieces are boxed and gift-ready, but if you’re storing them longer term:

  • Keep items separated — chains and charms can scratch or tangle.
  • Use soft pouches, acid-free tissue, or compartmentalised boxes.
  • Avoid plastic bags (they trap moisture and cause tarnish).
  • Store somewhere cool, dry, and out of direct sunlight.

Things to Avoid

These tips will help prevent damage to delicate vintage jewellery:

  • Don’t wear in the shower, swimming pool, or gym.
  • Avoid perfume, lotion, hairspray — apply those before you put jewellery on.
  • Don’t sleep in chains or bracelets (it can stress links or clasps).
  • Avoid ultrasonic machines unless a jeweller has told you it’s safe (generally, it’s not for antique pieces).

Travelling With Jewellery

If you’re taking a special piece on holiday:

  • Use a small jewellery pouch or box (we include these with most items).
  • Carry it in hand luggage, not hold baggage.
  • Don’t bring particularly valuable or fragile pieces abroad unless necessary.
  • Take a quick photo of the item before you travel — just in case.

When to Contact a Jeweller

If a stone comes loose, a clasp is damaged, or you’re not sure how to clean something — get in touch. We’re always happy to advise. Better to ask than to damage something by accident.

Where possible, keep antique fittings original — that’s where the value is. If repairs are needed, always go to someone experienced in antique work.

Final Thoughts

At Ian Burton Antiques, we only sell jewellery we’d proudly wear ourselves or be delighted to give as a gift. Every piece we offer is:

✔️ Carefully handpicked from trusted UK sources
✔️ Professionally cleaned and ready to wear
✔️ Chosen for quality, history, and lasting value
✔️ Backed by great customer service

We take pride in offering jewellery that isn’t just beautiful — it’s meaningful, well cared for, and part of a continuing story. With just a little maintenance, your antique and vintage pieces can remain a treasured part of your collection for decades to come.

If you ever have questions about how to care for something you’ve purchased — or if you're unsure whether a piece needs a repair, a clean, or just some advice — don’t hesitate to get in touch. We're always happy to help, even long after your purchase.

👉 Explore more pieces, read our other guides, or contact us for personalised advice.

Thank you for supporting a small, family-run business that values craftsmanship, heritage, and great customer service.

We take pride in offering jewellery that isn’t just beautiful — it’s meaningful, well cared for, and part of a continuing story. With just a little maintenance, your antique and vintage pieces can remain a treasured part of your collection for decades to come.

If you ever have questions about how to care for something you’ve purchased — or if you're unsure whether a piece needs a repair, a clean, or just some advice — don’t hesitate to get in touch. We're always happy to help, even long after your purchase.

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What Our Customers Say:

  • Tierny on 30 Aug, 2025

    "Arrived right on time, and looks absolutely amazing! Perfect addition to my charm bracelet."

  • Fernanda on 28 Aug, 2025

    "It’s just as described. So nice and buttery gold!"

  • Anne on 28 Aug, 2025

    "Absolutely ADORE this locket, the engraving details are just phenomenal! I'm so glad to have chosen this piece :)"

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