Jewelry Basics

Gold is a strong and lasting material, but like any fine jewelry, it benefits from thoughtful care. To keep it looking its best for years to come:

• Keep it clean and dry. Remove gold jewelry before applying lotion, perfume, or makeup, and store it away from moisture and dust.

• Skip the soap. Avoid cleaning gold with regular soap and water—it can leave a dull film. Use a jeweler-recommended cleaner or ultrasonic machine for best results.

• Avoid harsh chemicals. Take off gold jewelry when cleaning, swimming, or doing rough tasks that could scratch or weaken it.

• Store it safely. When not in use, wrap your gold piece in a soft cloth or place it in a fabric-lined jewelry box to prevent scratches or tangles.

With a little care, gold jewelry can maintain its shine and meaning for a lifetime.

Silver is timeless and elegant—but it does require proper storage and care to maintain its shine. Here are a few simple tips:

• Store it properly. Keep silver jewelry in a cool, dry place—ideally in an airtight container. Avoid placing it directly on wood, as certain finishes and acids can cause tarnishing over time.

• Protect it from tarnish. Use anti-tarnish pouches, cloths, or strips, and store each piece separately to prevent scratching and oxidation. A soft pouch or divided jewelry box works well.

• Polish when needed. If tarnish appears, gently clean the piece using a silver polishing cloth or a jewelry-safe silver polish to restore its luster.

A little extra care helps silver jewelry retain its beauty—and its meaning—for years to come.

Understanding Colored Gemstones
Colored gemstones used in award jewelry generally fall into two categories: genuine and synthetic. Both are beautiful and durable—but they differ in origin and characteristics.

• Genuine gemstones are natural stones formed in the earth, with no human involvement in their creation. Each gem is one-of-a-kind, with natural variations in color, clarity, and intensity. Because different stones have different hardness ratings, some require extra care during wear or cleaning. Like diamonds, genuine colored gemstones can be graded for quality using standards developed by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA).

• Synthetic gemstones have the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as genuine stones—but they’re created in a lab rather than mined from the earth. They tend to have more consistent color and clarity, and they’re often more durable than their natural counterparts.

Most synthetic stones used in corporate jewelry are cut in classic shapes like oval or cushion (a rectangle with soft, rounded corners). They may have either a smooth buff top or a faceted surface, and are frequently chosen in recognized birthstone colors for personalization.

Whether genuine or synthetic, gemstones offer color, symbolism, and elegance—making them a timeless option for meaningful recognition jewelry.