Amber Care

Few materials in this world feature the same glow, the same irresistible pull, and the same sense of mystery and intrigue as amber. With its fiery quality, its sense of captured sunlight and ancient secrecy, amber is a true treasure of the North, and one which - understandably - has ignited the imagination and inflamed passions for centuries.

However, just like any other gem, amber requires tender care and attention to ensure it remains at its best and most impactive. As such, knowing how to clean and care for your amber is of paramount importance, if you wish for it to retain its beauty for a lifetime.

• Cleaning amber is, at best, a simple and uncomplicated process. It should never be steam cleaned or put into an ultrasonic jewellery cleaner - both will erode the polish around the amber itself, and cause significant and noticeable damage.

• Instead, utilise warm water and a mild, detergent-free soap. Make a gentle solution, and use your fingers or a soft cloth to carefully wash off any oil, debris, or cosmetic residue. Dry the stone with a flannel, and keep it safe in your jewellery box.

• Want to restore the shine to your piece of amber jewellery? All you need is a tiny drop of olive oil or coconut oil, and circular motions with a soft cloth. Within a matter of seconds, the lustre of your amber should be beautifully restored.

As with all great treasures and gifts of the earth, amber is a sensitive substance, and one which can be easily damaged without taking proper care and the correct precautions. Here are some things to avoid when storing or wearing your amber Smykke jewellery:

• Amber is very delicate - remember, it was once a liquid resin - and can easily be scratched unless care is taken. As such, it is best stored separately from other gemstones.

• Avoid leaving your amber in direct sunlight. The UV rays of the sun can weaken your amber’s lustre, so be sure to keep your amber in a wooden jewellery box or velvet pouch whenever you are not wearing it.

• Amber is senstive to extremes of temperature. If it is stored anywhere which is too hot (for example, on top of a radiator, close to a fire, or on top of a computer) or too cold, you will find your amber can quickly lose its shine and depth. 

• Always apply perfume and hairspray before putting on your amber jewellery, and waiting at least a minute or two before proceeding with your amber adornments. The chemicals and alcohol in both of these substances needs to dissipate from the skin first, as the amber can otherwise be corroded.

• Cleaning products will damage your amber jewellery, so be sure to remove any items of amber before using household sprays, detergents, and especially chlorine and bleach.