At Magpie Jewellery, we have over 30 years of experience providing expert jewellery care, cleaning, and repair in Ottawa. From engagement rings and wedding bands to gold, platinum, silver, and gemstone pieces, we offer professional advice, in-store ultrasonic cleaning, and hands-on repair services.
Visit our Westboro, Glebe, or Sussex stores to keep your treasured pieces looking their best.
General Jewellery Care Tips
- Store jewellery properly: Keep cleaned pieces in a soft cloth pouch (gold or costume pieces) or a small plastic baggie (silver and gold vermeil). Store chains individually to prevent tangling and always secure clasps.
- Remove jewellery during exercise: Sweat is acidic and can cause metals to change colour, sometimes permanently. Be careful while weight training.
- Avoid water and chemicals: Remove rings, bracelets, and watches before swimming, hot-tubbing, or sauna use. Chlorine, saltwater, and intense heat can damage metals and gemstones.
- Remove jewellery before bed: Chains can twist and stretch while you sleep, and unguarded earring posts can cause discomfort.
- Stacking rings: Pair stacking rings together to help them maintain shape.
Looking for care tips for permanent jewellery? Check here.
Caring for Gold & Platinum
Gold and platinum are highly durable metals that can last generations with proper care.
Tips:
- Routine cleaning: Wipe away buildup with a jewellery cleaning cloth. For deeper cleaning, use mild soap and warm water. Use a soft toothbrush for hard-to-reach areas.
- Protect gemstones: Avoid soaking delicate stones such as pearls, opals, tanzanite, or emeralds.
- Prevent buildup: Remove rings before applying lotion or sunscreen.
- Professional cleaning: Our Westboro and Glebe stores offer ultrasonic cleaning for gold and platinum pieces.
Caring for Sterling Silver
Silver can tarnish over time, but proper care restores its shine.
Tips:
- Use a polishing cloth to remove tarnish quickly and gently. Avoid laundering the cloth.
- For highly ornate or oxidized pieces, make a soft paste of baking soda and water and gently clean with your fingers or a soft toothbrush.
- Storage: Keep silver in an airtight bag to slow tarnishing.
Caring for Gold-Filled Jewellery
Gold fill is a durable, affordable alternative to solid gold.
Tips:
- Clean gently with mild soap and water; dry thoroughly.
- Polish occasionally with a soft cloth.
- Store individually and avoid humid environments.
Note: Gold vermeil (gold plated over sterling silver) should be treated like silver — avoid abrasive cleaning.
Caring for Brass Jewellery
Brass is a copper-zinc alloy, offering a gold-toned, budget-friendly alternative.
Tips:
- Brass may react with skin acidity, leaving a slight green or blue mark. Wash off with soap and water.
- Polish with a jewellery cloth to restore shine.
- For stubborn tarnish, briefly dip in a solution of 2 parts water to 1 part white vinegar, rinse immediately, and dry. Avoid prolonged exposure to acid.
Professional Jewellery Cleaning & Repair in Ottawa
At Magpie Jewellery, we provide:
- Ultrasonic cleaning & polishing
- Ring resizing & adjustments
- Appraisals
- Stone tightening & replacement
- Restoration of gold, silver, and platinum pieces
- Expert care for custom or designer jewellery
Visit our Ottawa stores:
Bring your pieces in for a free assessment and professional care.



