How do I clean these platinum diamond rings?

Platinum and diamond pieces take well to mild soapy water. Use a soft baby toothbrush to gently dislodge dirt behind the settings. Rinse the ring carefully under warm water. Dry it with a lint-free cloth rather than leaving it to air dry. Do not soak items that contain pearls or foil-backed stones. The water will damage them.

My grandmother left me a pendant that looks like lace but the back is yellow gold and the front is white. Is this normal for the period?

This layered technique is common for the era. Workshops often used gold for the back structure while applying a thin layer of platinum to the front. The white metal front ensured the diamonds looked their best without picking up yellow reflections. The gold back kept the material costs down and provided structural strength.

Can a jeweller resize an Edwardian ring?

Most rings from this period can be resized by a skilled craftsperson. The plain bands at the back make the process straightforward. Take care if the ring has diamonds set all the way around the band. Altering these full eternity styles often disrupts the setting.

I want to wear my antique pearl necklace every day to work but someone told me the string might snap and I should be careful. What is the best way to look after it?

Silk thread stretches and weakens over time. Body oils and cosmetics speed up this deterioration. Have the necklace checked and restrung every few years if you wear it often. A jeweller will knot the silk between each pearl so you only lose one if the string breaks. Keep them away from hairspray and perfume. Put your pearls on last before leaving the house.

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Edwardian Jewellery

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Edwardian jewellery was designed to look delicate and lace-like, worn by high-society figures at formal evening events to catch the light and demonstrate subtle sophistication.