Let's be real – you bought that gorgeous enamel jewellery because it caught your eye. Those vibrant colours, that glossy finish. Now you want it to stay that way, right?
Good news. Learning how to care for enamel jewellery isn't rocket science. It just takes a few simple habits, and you'll keep those pieces looking brand new for years.
Why Enamel Jewellery Needs Special Care?
Here's the thing about enamel. It's basically glass fused onto metal. That makes it beautiful but also means you can't treat it like your regular gold jewellery or silver pieces.
Glass can chip. It can crack. But honestly? With proper care, you'll probably never have these problems.
Think of it like this – you wouldn't toss your phone around without a case, right? Same idea with enamel pieces.
Daily Care Habits That Actually Work
How to care for enamel jewellery starts with what you do every single day. These small habits make all the difference.
The Golden Rule: Last On, First Off
Put your enamel earrings or enamel necklace on AFTER you've:
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Applied makeup
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Sprayed perfume
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Done your hair
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Put on lotion
Then take them off FIRST when you get home. Before you wash your face, before you shower, before anything else.
Why? Chemicals in beauty products can dull that glossy finish over time. You won't notice it happening, but six months later, your piece won't sparkle like it used to.
Keep It Dry
Water itself won't hurt enamel, but what's IN the water might. Chlorine from pools? Disaster. Salt from the ocean? Not great. Even tap water has minerals that can build up.
If your enamel bracelet gets wet by accident, just dry it immediately with a soft cloth. No big deal.
Touch Less, Enjoy More
Our hands are basically oil factories. Every time you touch your jewellery, you're leaving a film behind. It's natural, but it makes enamel look cloudy.
Try to handle your pieces by the metal parts, not the enamel itself.
How to Clean Enamel Jewellery at Home
Okay, so how to care for enamel jewellery when it actually needs cleaning? Super simple.
The Basic Clean (Do This Weekly)
You'll need:
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Warm water (not hot!)
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One drop of mild dish soap
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Soft toothbrush or cloth
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Dry microfiber cloth
Mix the water and soap. Dip your brush in it. Gently clean the piece. Rinse under warm running water. Dry immediately.
That's it. Seriously.
For Stubborn Dirt
Got something stuck in the crevices? An old soft toothbrush works wonders. Be gentle, though. You're not scrubbing a pot.
If your piece combines enamel with freshwater pearls (like our Vintage Grace collection), be extra careful. Pearls are even more delicate than enamel.
What NOT to Use
Never, ever use:
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Ultrasonic cleaners (the vibrations can crack enamel)
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Steam cleaners (too hot)
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Harsh chemicals or bleach
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Abrasive polishing cloths
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Baking soda or toothpaste
I know those last two are popular DIY cleaning hacks. Don't do it. They're too rough for enamel's smooth surface.
Proper Storage Makes a Huge Difference
How to care for enamel jewellery includes what you do when you're NOT wearing it. Storage matters more than you'd think.
Individual Storage Spaces
Each piece needs its own space. Why? Because if your enamel ring rubs against a gemstone bracelet, guess which one loses? The enamel.
Use:
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Separate pouches (soft fabric, not plastic).
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Individual compartments in your jewellery box.
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Hanging organisers for necklaces.
Climate Control
Extreme temperature changes aren't great for enamel. Don't store your pieces:
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In direct sunlight near a window
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In a bathroom (too humid)
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In an attic or garage (temperature swings)
Room temperature in a drawer or jewellery box? Perfect.
What to Avoid When Wearing Enamel Pieces?
Let's talk about the activities that don't mix well with enamel jewellery.
Exercise and Sports
Take off your enamel earrings before hitting the gym. Sweat contains salts and acids that can damage the finish over time. Plus, you might bump into something.
Household Chores
Cleaning with harsh chemicals? Gardening? Doing dishes? Take off your jewellery first.
I know it's a pain to remove your favourite ring every time you wash dishes. But trust me, it's easier than dealing with damaged enamel.
Swimming
Pool chlorine is enamel's worst enemy. Ocean salt isn't much better. Save your pieces for dry land.
Dealing with Damage: What You Can (and Can't) Fix
Even when you know how to care for enamel jewellery perfectly, accidents happen.
Small Scratches
Light surface scratches on the metal parts? A jeweller can often polish those out. Scratches on the enamel itself? Unfortunately, those are usually permanent.
The enamel on our sterling silver pieces is applied in layers, so minor wear might not be too noticeable.
Chips and Cracks
This is trickier. Some jewellers can repair enamel, but it's specialised work. The repair might be visible, and it won't be cheap.
Prevention is your best bet here.
When to Seek Professional Help
If your piece has gemstones combined with enamel, don't try DIY repairs. The stones might come loose if you mess with damaged enamel.
Contact our Customer Care team if you need help assessing damage to an Anais&Aimee piece.
Seasonal Care Tips
How to care for enamel jewellery changes slightly with the seasons.
Summer Care
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Reapply sunscreen before putting on jewellery (not after)
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Extra sweat means more frequent cleaning
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Higher humidity in some areas – make sure pieces dry completely
Winter Care
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Static from sweaters can attract dust
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Indoor heating dries air out – good for enamel, actually
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Remove pieces before putting on or taking off winter coats (snagging risk)
Travel Tips for Enamel Pieces
Taking your enamel jewellery on vacation? Smart packing matters.
Packing Safely
Use a hard-sided travel jewellery case. Those soft pouches don't protect against crushing if your suitcase gets tossed around.
Wrap each piece in tissue paper or soft cloth before placing it in the case.
Airport Security
You can wear your jewellery through security, but I usually pack it instead. Less chance of losing something in those bins.
Long-Term Maintenance
You've learned how to care for enamel jewellery day-to-day. But what about long-term?
Annual Professional Inspection
Once a year, have a jeweller check:
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Metal clasps and findings
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Prong settings (if there are gemstones)
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Overall structural integrity
Our pieces come with a 1-year warranty, but regular checks help catch issues early.
Knowing When to Retire a Piece
If enamel is severely damaged, cracked, or chipping badly, it might be time to retire that piece from regular rotation. You can still keep it for sentimental value, but wearing it risks further damage.
Why Proper Care Matters
Look, enamel jewellery isn't just an accessory. It's an investment in something beautiful that can last generations.
I've seen vintage enamel pieces from the 1920s that still look incredible. Why? Because someone cared for them properly.
Your handmade pieces deserve that same care and attention.
Quick Reference Guide
Here's everything about how to care for enamel jewellery in one spot:
Daily:
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Put on last, take off first
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Keep away from chemicals and water
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Handle with metal parts
Weekly:
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Gentle cleaning with mild soap and water
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Dry immediately and thoroughly
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Check for any damage
Monthly:
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Deep clean crevices with a soft brush
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Inspect clasps and findings
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Reorganise storage if needed
Yearly:
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Professional inspection
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Consider professional cleaning
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Replace worn pouches or boxes
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