Insurance:

Unfortunately, the times we live in force us to rely on insurance to replace the items we cherish and hold dear. However, all to often we forget to ensure that those items are protected adequately and loose out when replacements are required. Most Insurance companies suggest you have your valuables appraised every 4 to 5 years to ensure that they have an appropriate level of cover to ensure replacement if the worst happens. Through our N.A.G - I.R.V, registered valuer, we offer a full valuation service on the premesis, covering Insurance, Probate, Resale and most other types of valuation. Phone us or call in for further information.

Tips to care for your jewellery:

Pearls:

It is said about pearls that they become even more beautiful when used. It is also true that the heat from the skin can give life to the pearls, but they can still look colourless and worn if they are not being cleaned properly. Therefore, frequently use a soft cloth to remove traces of sweat, creams, soaps or impurities.

Pearls are an organic material that easily gets harmed, therefore they do not tolerate the substances from perfumes or hair spray, and in some cases may also be harmed by certain types of medication excreted through the skin. Usually your string of pearls will be strung on silk. This means that with wear the knots can attract dirt and come to look dull, and the string can become loose or break. So be sure to them re-strung annually, or if you wear the necklace every day, then every six months.

Silver:

Silver may oxidise and should be maintained daily. By using certain types of medicines and in warm periods, the acid in your sweat can affect silver and make the jewellery black. For some people it means that they cannot wear silver all year round, and it may be recommended to wear only gold. Alternatives may be titanium or steel. The best way to keep your everyday silver jewellery is to clean it once a day with an impregnated polishing cloth or silver dip. Ask us for advice on cleaning your silver jewellery.

Gold:

Gold does not oxidise, but gold-plated jewellery will naturally darken a bit over time because the plating will be exposed to a greater or lesser degree of wear. How quickly that happens depends on how much you use your jewellery and what you use it for. Solid gold can be cleaned and polished by our workshop.

Gems:

In most cases jewellery with gems can be cleaned & polished by our workshop using professional equipment. We can then check at the same time to ensure your settings are in good condition and your stones secure. Precious stones like diamonds are tough, but they must be cleaned to maintain brightness. Certain stones are best cleaned regularly, with a little lukewarm water, mild soap and a soft cloth. Stones, like opals, amber, coral, turquoise and Emeralds are more fragile and you should consult us before cleaning.

In general jewellery should be treated gently, lovingly and with care. You should, among other things always take your jewellery off when washing your hands, take a bath, exercise, do physical work, and every night you go to bed. Avoid perfumes, lotions or similar on your jewellery, and keep them separate in small pouches or a jewellery box so they do not scratch each other. At Halfhide's, you can always get advice on maintaining your individual jewellery. You can also buy polishing cloths and seek advise on the condition of your jewellery.

Always take care of your jewellery - it is a part of you!