HOW TO CLEAN & ORGANIZE JEWELRY
Get ready to get organized! Store and keep your jewels, gems, rings and things at your fingertips with jewelry boxes, holders and trees. And to help keep your prized pieces in top-notch condition, we’ve got tips and tricks on how to clean gold, silver, pearls and more!
JEWELRY CLEANING
METALS
Make sure to take advantage of our fine jewelry extended service plan for professional cleaning of your jewelry, as well as Macy’s WorryNoMore Jewelry & Watch Protection program. For in-between cleanings, a polishing cloth and jewelry-safe cleaners will help keep them shiny. A few things to keep in mind:


Gold jewelry should be removed before showering, cleaning or washing dishes. Soap and water mixed with a few drops of ammonia can be used to clean gold jewelry. Grease can be removed by dipping the jewelry in rubbing alcohol. After cleaning and rinsing, be sure to dry and polish it with a chamois or a soft cloth. An ultrasonic cleaning machine can also be used as long as the jewelry does not contain gemstones as it can damage the stones.


Silver jewelry (like silver chains, silver earrings and silver rings) should be cleaned with a polishing cloth, mild soap and water or professional silver cleaner. If the silver jewelry contains a pearl or a soft gemstone, make sure to use a polishing cloth to prevent potential damage to the stone. Avoid using paper towels or tissues, which are too rough and will cause scratches on the silver surface.


Vermeil jewelry should not be polished vigorously, as repeated rubbing can cause the gold to wear off. We also suggest storing vermeil jewelry in an airtight plastic bag to prevent tarnishing. And be sure to remove any vermeil jewelry when swimming as chlorine can damage the finish.
PEARLS


Keep your pearls polished and pristine. Pearls are naturally soft and delicate, with certain types being more prone to peeling. A good rule of thumb? Store your pearl jewelry in a softly lined box, away from other metal pieces that may scratch or rub them. Also, make sure to keep them away from harsh chemicals in makeup, hairspray or soaps.
A few things to keep in mind:
- Pearls should be wiped off with a soft cloth or chamois after wearing to prevent dirt from accumulating and keep perspiration, which is acidic, from eating away at the pearl surface. A drop of olive oil on the cloth will maintain the pearl’s luster.
- Only use jewelry cleaners labeled as safe for pearls. A cleaning solution not intended for pearls will dull their luster and cause them to look cloudy.
- Never steam-clean pearls or use an ultrasonic cleaner and avoid exposing pearls to detergents, bleaches, baking soda, or ammonia-based cleaners.
JEWELRY STORAGE


everything in its place
The perfect way to keep track of your favorite pieces? A jewelry organizer! Neatly stow delicate treasures in divided sections, separating rings from bracelets, earrings from necklaces. A beautifully designed jewelry box makes an elegant addition to your vanity, while a jewelry tray is a great way to showcase your most-worn pieces. Also check out drawer inserts featuring perfectly sized compartments great for tucking away your most-loved jewels. And to show off your timepieces, check out jewelry boxes with a rack specifically for watches.


Treasure Chest
Give your prized pieces the luxe treatment they deserve with their very own armoire. A jewelry armoire offers more than enough room to house rings, earrings, bracelets, necklaces, watches and much more—all in one place. Look for additional features like a flip top mirror, deep drawers and convenient cabinet doors in traditional or modern designs. Or opt for a standing mirror with built-in jewelry storage for your dressing room.


uncluttered & tangle-free
We love the super—chic look of layered necklaces and stacked bracelets—so keep them that way even when you’re not wearing them! Organize and keep everything in its place with a jewelry tree featuring tall branches for hanging chain necklaces and long pendants and shorter ones for charm bracelets and bangles—it’s the perfect storage solution. They’ll be always organized and easily within reach!


ring 'em in
Have a massive collection of rings? A ring dish or catchall dishes are perfect for storing and keeping your rings in order. Look for crystal bowl designs to give your dresser or vanity a classic touch. Another clever way to de-clutter your cherished accessories? Clear acrylic jewelry organizers and jewelry holders, which let you see everything easily.