How to clean an amber piece of jewellery?

Natural amber, often called yellow amber because of its colour, is a fossilised resin. Yes indeed, contrary to what you might think, amber is not a mineral material, although it is often considered a precious stone.

It is actually secreted by very old conifers 🌲 (formed around 50 million years ago, no less) and comes in shades ranging from white to black, via different yellows, including the famous sunshine yellow.

Depending on beliefs and cultures, amber is associated with many benefits. Some people use amber necklaces to soothe their baby during teething, others to stimulate blood circulation, and still others to combat stress and depression.

This very special resin is also highly valued in lithotherapy, particularly because when it comes into contact with the skin, small molecules of succinic acid, camphor and terpenes are released, providing very positive effects on our health.

But enough talk, let’s get to the point. Just like your finest watches, your gemstone-set rings or your wedding band, amber jewellery deserves a little clean from time to time.

Contents:

• Quickly clean your amber jewellery in 3 steps
• Restore shine and lustre to your amber jewellery
• Storing your jewellery: the tip that works every time

Quickly clean your amber jewellery in 3 steps

Being a jewellery lover means that, even if we don’t always feel like it or have the motivation, we do need to clean our little treasures from time to time if we want to see them stand the test of time.

So, for those who want to do things properly without spending two hours on it, here are three steps to follow to care for your amber bracelets, necklaces and other jewellery.

A simple and effective little clean

To do this, simply follow these steps:

• Start by gently rubbing your jewellery with soapy water or lemon juice diluted in water
• Rinse it with clean water
• Wipe it with a soft cloth and don’t hesitate to apply a little sweet almond oil to it (it’s the little nourishing touch that will make all the difference)

Well, that wasn’t too complicated after all—you’ll be able to handle it 🤓, right?

This very simple routine should be carried out about once a month, or even once every two months. That will be more than enough. However, for the more meticulous among you, here are a few more little tips for cleaning your different amber jewellery pieces.

A quick dry clean for your jewellery

Nothing could be simpler! Using a small soft-bristled brush and a small cloth, gently rub your jewellery to remove any dust that may have slipped in. The bristles of the brush will be perfect for getting into the tiniest nooks and crannies of your rings or earrings, for example. Simple and effective—we love it!

Wash with a drop of shampoo

Once again, keeping it simple, immerse your little gem in a bowl of lukewarm water mixed with a drop of your favourite shampoo. Let your jewellery soak for around twenty minutes. Rinse with clean water and polish the amber with a piece of microfibre cloth. Give it a good little dry with a soft cloth and you’re all set 🤩!

Restore shine and lustre to your amber jewellery

With use, but also simply because time passes, amber tends to lose its lustre. Dust, light, pollution and simply being worn regularly as an accessory, with everything that entails (friction, perspiration, etc., etc.) mean that your piece will change colour and shine less.

Never mind, it’s not irreversible. To help your lovely resin jewellery retain all its shine, all it needs is a little helping hand. To do this, a little polish with olive oil from time to time (or with sweet almond oil) has the advantage of polishing and nourishing the amber. Drying it with a soft, dry cloth is essential before storing or wearing your piece.

If, despite a little rubbing with one of these two oils, a slight cloudy film remains, you can repeat the process by adding a drop of lemon with sweet almond oil. Rub vigorously yet gently with a microfibre cloth, and don’t forget to dry your piece thoroughly.

As a plant-based material, amber has retained certain qualities, including its “living” appearance. Just as you take care of your plants, it is important to take care of your amber if you love it.

Be careful, though, not to make a few little mistakes: this material really does not like chemical substances which could seriously damage it and diminish its value. To avoid any unfortunate alterations to your jewellery, steer clear of all cleaning products containing harsh substances. Care for nature with natural products—nothing more to it!

Storing your jewellery: the tip that works every time

We keep telling you at Maison Scarlett (but we’re rather well placed to know): storing your jewellery is the best advice we can give you.

Jewellery box, cases, jewellery trees and other display stands and storage accessories—you’re spoilt for choice. Whether for your long necklaces, charms, stud earrings or even signet rings, storing them properly is the best way to see your favourite pieces last for years.

Your amber accessories are no exception to this rule. Cleaning and care are essential, but they will be in vain if you leave your stones lying around everywhere. Your jeweller will be delighted—and so will you!