How to Care for Imitation Jewellery

Imitation jewellery is a smart, stylish and affordable alternative to real gold and diamond jewellery — but it does require some care to keep it looking its best. With the right practices, your Gehna For You jewellery can stay bright and beautiful for years.

The Golden Rules of Imitation Jewellery Care

Rule 1: Last On, First Off
Always put your jewellery on last — after applying perfume, hairspray, makeup and moisturiser. Take it off first before showering, exercising or sleeping.

Rule 2: Keep Away from Water
Water is the number one enemy of gold-finish jewellery. Even a small amount of regular moisture exposure can cause tarnishing and plating to wear off. Take off all jewellery before bathing, swimming or washing dishes.

Rule 3: Store Separately
Store each piece separately in a soft cloth pouch or individual compartment in a jewellery box. Pieces stored together rub against each other and cause scratching and chipping.

Rule 4: Wipe After Every Wear
Use a soft, dry microfibre cloth to gently wipe your jewellery after every wear. This removes sweat, oils and residue before they can cause tarnishing.

Caring for Specific Types of Jewellery

Gold Polish Necklaces and Earrings:
• Wipe with dry soft cloth after wearing
• Store in airtight ziplock pouch or silica-gel box to prevent humidity damage
• Never use metal polish or abrasive cleaners
• If slightly tarnished, gently rub with a soft toothbrush dipped in dry baking soda, then wipe clean

Jadau Kundan Jewellery:
• Handle with extra care — the Kundan stone settings can loosen if knocked
• Never immerse in water or use any cleaning liquid
• Store flat, not hanging, to prevent stone settings from loosening over time
• If a stone falls out, take it to a local jeweller for re-setting

Beads Jewellery:
• Keep away from water — beads strung on thread can cause thread to weaken and snap
• Store flat to prevent tangling
• Check thread condition periodically and get restrung if needed

Victorian and CZ Stone Jewellery:
• CZ stones can be gently cleaned with a soft damp cloth, then dried immediately
• Avoid exposing to strong sunlight for extended periods — some stone settings can fade
• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct light

How to Clean Tarnished Imitation Jewellery

If your gold-finish jewellery has tarnished, try this gentle home remedy:

1. Mix a small amount of mild dish soap with warm water
2. Dip a soft toothbrush into the solution
3. Gently scrub the surface of the jewellery
4. Rinse quickly under running water
5. Immediately pat dry with a soft cloth
6. Leave to air-dry completely before storing

Important: This method is for gold-finish metal only. Do not use on Jadau Kundan, beads jewellery or any piece with glued stone settings.

When to Replace vs Repair

Some jewellery issues can be fixed:
• Fallen Kundan stones — re-settable by a local jeweller
• Broken clasps or hooks — replaceable
• Faded gold polish — can be re-plated at a local electroplating shop for Rs.200-500

Consider replacing pieces that have significant structural damage, deeply tarnished metal that cannot be restored or broken stone settings throughout the piece.

Shop Fresh at Gehna For You

With new arrivals every week and prices from Rs.200, Gehna For You makes it easy to refresh your jewellery collection regularly. Same-day delivery in Hyderabad and free shipping above Rs.999.

Browse our full jewellery collection.