Help & Care
Questions about sizing or caring for your jewellery? With this page we hope to provide answers to some common queries. If your question hasn’t been addressed, or you need any more information, please get in touch with us and we’ll be happy to help.
This table shows UK ring sizes (letters) in internal circumference (mm).
NECKLACES
For necklace sizing, there are many helpful images on the internet of how long chains sit on the neck. Alternatively, you can measure your favourite necklace with a ruler or tape measure. You can also use a piece of string the correct length and measure that too, and remember the Lores team is always happy to help with any sizing issues via email or a virtual appointment.
Sizing
RINGS
It can be difficult to understand ring sizing and how to measure your size for the ring you are purchasing, so here are some handy tips.
If you're purchasing a ring and are unsure of your size, we have plastic reusable ring sizers in our shop which can be used again and again or be passed on to a friend or family member once you have used them. When it arrives with you and you have measured your size, please let us know your size so Lores can begin making your custom ring.
The best and most accurate way to be sized is at a jeweller. It is a very normal thing to ask, so don’t be shy as any friendly jewellery shop would be happy to help you.
Lores is a small business, therefore if you find the ring you ordered doesn’t fit perfectly, please give us a minimum of a week to sort out the ring size for you.
If a bespoke ring or store item needs to be your ring size and we have measured you, we won’t charge for that service. If you size yourself at home and the jewellery arrives and needs re-sizing, or you bought the ring from elsewhere our services start at £120 and can be found in the ‘Services’ section of our website or in the shop.
GEMSTONES
Just as the sun’s harmful rays can damage our skin, light and heat can affect a coloured gemstone’s durability and colour. Over time, and in excess, they can also fade or damage some gemstones, such as amethyst, kunzite, topaz and shell cameos. Pearls and other delicate materials, such as ivory, will bleach under extreme exposure to light. Other gems, especially amber, can darken over time when exposed to too much light. Excessive heat and sudden temperature changes may also fracture some gems. Heat can easily remove the natural moisture these gems need to keep their beauty. Pearls, for instance, can dry out, crack and discolour. Opals can turn white or brown, develop tiny cracks, and might lose their play-of-colour.
Since many natural gemstones can be quite delicate, avoid contact with hot water, harsh chemicals and cleaners. Clean your gemstones with a clean, soft, damp cloth after wearing. Alternatively, a soft toothbrush with very mild and fragrance-free soap is perfect to get into small settings and clean under stones. Very porous stones such as turquoise, howlite and emerald should be cleaned with water or a dry cloth only.
Jewellery Care
The jewellery we make is designed to last for the years to come, but all precious jewellery will naturally tarnish over time. Do your best to protect your jewellery from knocks, scratches, chemicals, sunlight, and heat/cold to minimise these effects.
GENERAL ADVICE
Store your jewellery in a soft, lined box or pouch with an anti-tarnish strip. Try to keep pieces apart so they don't rub together.
Your jewellery will age and tarnish naturally. If you want to keep your pieces in pristine condition, clean your jewellery regularly using a professional jewellery cleaning product. Always read the manufacturer’s instructions.
Try to avoid swimming wearing your jewellery, as chlorine in swimming pools can cause damage to all metals and will erode gold jewellery.
Avoid wearing while cleaning, gardening or exercising.
GOLD PLATED
Gold plating can wear off over time so do not let your jewellery come into contact with nail polish removers, perfume or hairspray. Do not wear gold plated jewellery all day, every day, in the swimming pool, or shower. Taking this kind of care will ensure you enjoy them for much longer. Regularly clean in a mild dishwashing liquid diluted in water. Use of a polishing cloth or strong jewellery cleaner is not recommended.
SILVER
Keep silver jewellery away from harsh chemicals like household cleaning fluids as they create abrasions and reduce the lustre of the metal. Thoroughly dry your silver jewellery after exposure to water. Strong chemicals, sulphur, sweat and perspiration, chlorine and harsh sunlight can tarnish and corrode the brilliant shine you love in your silver. It's best to store silver in individual, air-tight bags with anti-tarnish properties. These types of bags minimise air exposure and maintain shininess and brilliance.
GOLD
Gold is a soft metal, which makes it susceptible to dings, scratches, and dents. Be mindful of your gold rings, pendants, and bracelets while wearing them, and remove them while using tools or anything similar. Chlorine is gold’s worst enemy; with repeated exposure, chlorine will weaken your gold’s structure and may eventually lead to it breaking. Make sure to take your jewellery off before getting in a pool or spa.
Cover or remove while cleaning: household cleaners with acids or abrasives will damage your jewellery’s finish. Be sure to use rubber gloves while cleaning (we recommend doing this anyway to protect your skin) or remove your jewellery altogether. Put your jewellery on last when getting ready to go out: makeup, perfume, hairspray, and lotions can damage your gold.