Enamel jewellery is loved for its vivid colors, unique artistry, and timeless charm. Whether you’ve recently added a handcrafted enamel piece to your collection or have a favorite heirloom you wear every day, proper care is key to preserving its smooth finish and rich gloss.
Because enamel is essentially a decorative layer of glass fused to metal, it requires a slightly different approach than plain gold or silver pieces. Here is our complete guide to caring for, cleaning, and storing your enamel jewellery so it stays stunning for years to come.
1. Handle with Gentle Care
While enamel is durable once fused to metal, it maintains the physical qualities of glass. This means it can chip, crack, or scratch if subjected to hard impacts or sudden force.
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Put it on last: Always apply your makeup, perfume, hairspray, and lotions before putting on your jewellery. Chemicals in beauty products can dull the finish or react with the underlying metal.
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Remove before heavy activities: Take off your enamel rings or bracelets before exercising, gardening, doing housework, or heavy lifting to prevent accidental bumps against hard surfaces.
2. Avoid Harsh Chemicals & Water Exposure
Enamel and chemical cleaners do not mix well. Strong agents can erode the glass surface or weaken the bond between the enamel and the metal base.
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Keep away from household cleaners: Bleach, ammonia, and abrasive scrubbers will dull or damage enamel permanently.
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Remove before swimming & bathing: Chlorinated pool water and saltwater can tarnish metal accents and erode delicate enameling over time.
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Skip the ultrasonic cleaner: Never use ultrasonic jewellery cleaners or harsh chemical dip cleaners on enamel pieces, as high-frequency vibrations can cause microscopic cracks to expand.
3. How to Clean Enamel Jewellery Safely
Cleaning enamel at home is simple and requires only a few household items.
What You Need:
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Lukewarm water
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A few drops of mild dish soap (or gentle liquid soap)
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A soft-bristled toothbrush or lint-free cloth
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A clean microfiber cloth for drying
Simple Steps:
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Prepare the solution: Mix a small amount of mild dish soap into a bowl of lukewarm water.
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Gentle soak: Dip your jewellery into the soapy water for a few minutes to loosen any dirt.
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Clean softly: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently clean around metal settings or intricate details. Avoid scrubbing the enamel surface vigorously.
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Rinse & Dry: Rinse thoroughly under lukewarm running water to remove soap residue. Pat dry immediately with a clean, soft microfiber cloth, ensuring no moisture remains trapped in crevices.
4. Storing Your Enamel Collection
Proper storage prevents scratches and protects your pieces from humidity and light exposure.
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Keep pieces separated: Store enamel jewellery in individual soft cloth pouches, acid-free tissue paper, or a lined compartment in your jewellery box so pieces don't rub against each other.
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Avoid extreme temperatures: Store your collection in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and sudden temperature changes.
