DIAMONDS & GEMSTONE CARE

At Solitaire Jewellery, we take pride in crafting exquisite diamond jewellery that should be cherished for a lifetime. Follow these personalised care guidelines to ensure your Solitaire Jewellery remains as stunning as the day you received it.

EVERYDAY

We create intricately designed pieces that may subtly catch on clothing or handbags without immediate notice. It’s essential to be mindful of this delicate beauty. Remember that our jewellery is the final touch you add in the morning and the first to be removed when you return home in the evening.

Diamonds are renowned for their hardness but can still be affected by exposure to harsh chemicals. Avoid wearing diamond jewellery when using household cleaning products, swimming in chlorinated pools, or applying lotions, perfumes, or hairsprays. Remember not to wear it while playing sports or at the gym. Removing your rings before gardening or doing any heavy lifting is also essential.

STORAGE

If possible, keep your jewellery stored in its original packaging or a dry, cool place to prevent it from being tarnished, scratched, or damaged. REPAIR We understand that your piece can suffer from wear and tear, and we can provide a repair quote in our workshop upon inspection. Please read about our warranty here.

STONES

DIAMONDS

We’re delighted to offer a complimentary cleaning service at our showrooms to keep your cherished pieces looking their best. For maintenance at home, we recommend using warm, soapy water, a gentle toothbrush, and a soft, lint-free cloth or tissue to polish your diamonds delicately. It’s important to know that even though diamonds are the hardest natural gemstone on Earth, the natural oils from your skin can attract dust and diminish their brilliant sparkle.

To ensure your jewellery remains luminous, we encourage you to follow this at-home care routine weekly or as often as necessary. Additionally, consider making it a habit to schedule a full-service check and a deep clean at our workshop at least once or twice a year. This will guarantee that your diamonds radiate their brilliance all day long. It also allows us to check that the settings are still intact.

GEMSTONES, SEMI-PRECIOUS STONES

We advise against at-home cleaning for all other precious stones. We kindly ask you to bring them to our showroom for a professional assessment and cleaning, ensuring their utmost care and brilliance.

As a valuable practice, we encourage you to schedule a comprehensive, full-service deep clean at our workshop at least once or twice a year. This will ensure that your precious stones continue to exude their dazzling allure throughout the day.

PEARLS AND OPALS

PEARLS

We take great pride in our exquisite pearl creations. Pearls are remarkably resilient and can withstand shocks but are susceptible to scratches when in contact with sharp objects or other gemstones.

Ensure that clasps and pins are securely fastened. Store each piece separately in a compartmentalised jewellery box to prevent tangling and scratches.

Pearls, as the saying goes, ‘want to be worn.’ Regularly enjoy and showcase your pearl jewellery, as long storage periods in a security box may cause them to dehydrate. Pearls are prone to staining, so avoid things like fake tan and makeup. After wear, wipe them over with a soft cloth to remove any residue built up throughout the day.

Please note that pearls are best reserved for special occasions. They are not intended for everyday wear. If you want to wear your pearls daily, be aware that this may compromise the nacre of the pearl and its setting.

Our cultured pearl necklaces are expertly strung with resilient thread. However, this thread may stretch or loosen over time, potentially leading to a sudden break. Even if you don’t wear your pearls frequently, we recommend regular restringing to maintain their integrity.

We can provide repair services exclusively for authorised items and may decline repairs for items suspected of being used for resale or commercial purposes. If you notice a decrease in the radiance of your jewellery, we encourage you to seek the expertise of a specialist.

Furthermore, avoiding using an ultrasonic cleaner with pearl jewellery is crucial, as it can potentially harm the pearls. We recommend gentle and meticulous care to ensure your jewellery retains its pristine beauty.

OPALS

Opals have unique care requirements, each one a masterpiece of nature. Opals are relatively soft with a hardness similar to glass, so treating your opal pieces carefully is crucial to preserving their beauty.

Opals should be handled with care to prevent potential damage. Please remove your opal jewellery when engaging in activities that could lead to scratching or breakage, such as gardening or moving heavy furniture.

Contrary to popular belief, solid opals can withstand contact with water. Most precious opals contain about 5-6% water. However, it’s essential to protect opals from extremely dry conditions or rapid temperature changes, which may cause them to crack. Avoid exposing your opals to very high temperatures or extremely low humidity environments.

Clean your solid opals with a soft touch. Use mild detergent in warm water and a soft toothbrush or cloth to gently remove dirt and debris.

It’s essential to steer clear of bleach, harsh chemicals, or strong cleaners as they can potentially harm the delicate surface of opals. Never permit anyone to clean your opals using an ultrasonic cleaner. The intense vibrations produced by these machines can lead to cracking in solid opals.

Professional polishing can breathe new life into your opal, restoring its brilliance and captivating shine. During this process, we can also inspect the setting for any potential claw damage and ensure the security of your precious opal.

METALS

YELLOW GOLD, WHITE GOLD, ROSE GOLD & PLATINUM

We understand that regardless of the karat or metal type, everyday wear leaves its unique mark—a testament to a lifetime of cherished moments.

To preserve the allure of your jewellery, we proudly offer a complimentary cleaning service in our showrooms. If you prefer to care for your gold pieces at home, a simple and effective method is to use warm, soapy water and a soft, lint-free cloth or tissue. This gentle cleaning routine will help maintain the shine of your treasured metals.

We understand that even the most exquisite platinum pieces can lose their lustre over time, developing a charming patina as the metal’s surface takes on a frosted and dulled appearance. The good news is that restoring platinum to its original, breathtaking condition is a breeze with gentle cleaning and polish.

Your stunning white gold rings do require rhodium plating every so often. If you’ve noticed your white gold turning yellow, this is a sign that it’s time! Rhodium plating can be done at our Fountain Gate showroom and will incur a fee. Rhodium plating will wear at a different rate for every person, depending on several factors, including skin PH levels and how often you wear your piece while doing certain activities.

Your Solitaire Jewellery is an actual work of art, and proper care will preserve its beauty for generations. If you have specific questions about your jewellery piece, don’t hesitate to contact our dedicated team members by phone or visit one of our boutiques for personalised advice and assistance.

RING SIZE GUIDE

At Solitaire Jewellery we use AU/UK ring sizing.

Please note that in some cases the base of your finger can be smaller than you knuckle, so take this into consideration when sizing.

If in doubt, we strongly recommend visiting one of our showrooms to ascertain your ring size accurately.

Experience the perfect fit with our hassle-free resizing service. Enjoy one complimentary resize if you feel that the ring doesn’t fit perfectly. Make an appointment and bring the ring to our store and we will look after the rest.

We recommend that when it is cooler, there is some spin or movement to account for the potential expansion of your finger in warmer weather.
In the warmer weather, it is advised that the ring have a snug to tight fit. This allows for adjustment when the weather cools down, ensuring the ring doesn’t become too loose.

SHIPPING

MADE-TO-ORDER (4-6 week production)

Our made-to-order pieces require 4-6 weeks of production, excluding delivery.

READY-TO-SHIP

We keep several pieces in stock in our showrooms, which are available for immediate delivery. 

FOR ADDRESS WITHIN METRO MELBOURNE

Once your pieces are ready, delivery within metro Melbourne, we offer hand delivery within 48 hours, excluding public holidays and weekends. You will be contacted to book a delivery time with us. Due to the high value of our pieces, our parcels require a signature upon delivery. If no one is home at the booked delivery time, it will be returned to our showroom, and a new delivery time will be organised.

FOR ADDRESSES WITHIN AUSTRALIA (outside of metro Melbourne)

Depending on location, TNT or FedEx service delivers within 1-4 business days. All deliveries are complimentary with your purchase. 

You will be provided with a tracking number to monitor your consignment journey.

Due to the high value of our pieces, our parcels require a signature on delivery. If no one is available to sign for the parcel, it will be sent to the nearest post office or holding facility to be collected with photo ID.

You need to ensure the details provided at checkout are accurate, as Solitaire Jewellery cannot be held liable for incorrect deliveries due to address errors. Our shipping providers are trusted services, and as such, Solitaire Jewellery will not refund or replace orders that have been scanned as delivered.

FOR ADDRESSES OUTSIDE OF AUSTRALIA

Depending on location, FedEx Service delivers within 1-7 business days.

You will be contacted directly for the postage cost, depending on location. 

Please note that duties and taxes are respective to your order value and destination country. We are not responsible for additional unforeseeable duties and tax charges that may occur upon arrival at your destination country.

FAQS

Here, we’ve answered some of the most common questions about our jewellery, from our materials to the quality of our diamonds. Whether exploring our collections or learning about gold and diamond standards, this guide is designed to help you make confident and informed choices.

If you are unable to find the information you are looking for, please get in touch via info@solitairejewellery.com.au with your enquiry.

SHIPPING & DELIVERIES

Once your order has been shipped, you will receive an email update with a tracking number. You can use this tracking number to monitor the progress of your shipment and get an estimated delivery date. If you have any questions or need assistance, please get in touch with our team.

No, we don’t, as we require a signature on delivery.

Yes, Solitaire Jewellery offers secure international shipping for our clients worldwide. Our team takes every precaution to ensure your pieces are safely packaged and arrive pristine. Shipping fees and delivery times vary depending on your location.

We accept various payment options, including major credit cards, bank transfers, and select financing options. You can contact us or view our payment options at checkout.

PRODUCTION

Yes, most of our jewellery is made to order. This ensures that each piece is crafted with precision and tailored to your preferences. We do have pieces stocked in our showrooms and ready to go, but when it comes to things like engagement rings, they come with a lot more specifications, so they would most likely be custom-made to order.

At Solitaire Jewellery, most pieces are meticulously handcrafted to order in our Melbourne workshop. We also partner with a small network of Responsible Jewellery Council-accredited international manufacturers.

Yes, we are deeply committed to ethical sourcing. Being a family business of 30 years, we have found and created relationships with trusted and established dealers who adhere to the Kimberley Process, which ensures that diamonds are conflict-free and ethically mined. We believe in maintaining transparency and integrity throughout our supply chain.

Absolutely! Solitaire Jewellery specialises in creating bespoke pieces tailored to our clients’ unique visions. Our expert designers work closely with you to craft a one-of-a-kind piece, from concept to final polish. Contact us to book a private consultation and discuss your custom design ideas.

Mild soap, warm water, and a soft cloth are usually sufficient. Please bring delicate pieces or gemstones to one of our showrooms.

It is recommended that pieces be inspected once or twice a year, especially frequently worn ones. This allows us to examine their condition and anticipate any necessary work to avoid losing a diamond.

We recommend gently washing your pieces with warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft brush. Avoid exposing diamonds to harsh chemicals, which can damage the setting. We also offer professional cleaning services for clients to ensure that your jewellery always looks its best.

The 4Cs of diamonds—Cut, Colour, Clarity, and Carat Weight—are the global standard for assessing a diamond’s quality:

  • Cut: Refers to how well a diamond is shaped and faceted, impacting its brilliance and sparkle.
  • Colour: Measures the absence of colour; the closer to colourless, the higher the grade.
  • Clarity: Evaluates the presence of natural imperfections or inclusions.
  • Carat Weight: Indicates the diamond’s size and weight, with higher carat weights typically being more valuable.

These factors work together to determine a diamond’s beauty and value. At Solitaire Jewellery, we prioritise diamonds that balance all 4Cs for maximum brilliance.

The difference between 9K, and 18K gold lies in gold content: 9K contains 37.5% gold, and 18K is 75% pure gold. While 9K is more durable and perfect for simple, everyday designs, 18K gold offers a richer colour and is more luxurious. We exclusively use 18K gold for our diamond jewellery, ensuring the perfect balance of elegance and durability to hold diamonds while enhancing their brilliance securely.

Store pieces individually in soft pouches or fabric-lined boxes to prevent scratches and tangling.

All our jewellery is made with natural diamonds. However, we do offer engagement rings with a lab-grown diamond as the centre stone at the clients’ request. If the ring mount featured a hidden halo and diamonds on the shoulders, they would be natural diamonds.

If the client desires a lab-grown diamond, we are happy to provide that level of service for you.

SIZING & BESPOKE

Yes, we provide resizing services for rings and other jewellery. Our team will work with you to ensure a perfect fit while maintaining the integrity and beauty of your piece. Contact our team, and we’ll gladly assist.

Booking a consultation is easy. Visit our Contact page or call us directly to schedule an appointment. We offer in-person, phone, and virtual consultations to best meet your needs. Here is our contact page.

RETURNS

We stand by the quality and craftsmanship of our jewellery. Should you need to return a piece, please review our Return Policy for detailed eligibility and return procedure information. Customised or personalised items are non-refundable, but we will work to ensure your complete satisfaction. Here is our Return Policy.

Please get in touch with our team, and they will be able to help you with your next steps.

REPAIRS & REFURBISHMENT

We stand by the quality and craftsmanship of our jewellery. Please review our Warranty Policy for detailed information. Here is our Warranty Policy.

We provide a manufacturing warranty. However, our warranty does not cover loss, theft, accidental damage, or general wear and tear.
 
All our jewellery pieces come with an independent valuation that you can present to your insurance company (i.e. home and contents insurance). 
 
Alternatively, we can recommend Centrestone, a certified and specialised jewellery insurer. Our team can set you up with four days of free coverage with Centrestone, and they will liaise with you directly to arrange coverage. 
 
The choice of insurance provider is entirely up to you and should be based on your needs. A comprehensive insurance plan ensures that your jewellery can be repaired or replaced. We recommend discussing coverage details with your insurer for peace of mind.

Yes, we offer both cleaning and repair services. Our expert jewellers can inspect, clean, and repair your Solitaire pieces, from tightening stones to polishing and rhodium plating. Please contact us for details and pricing to arrange a service.

If you have lost your earring back/s, we can replace them for a fee. Please get in touch with us at our showrooms or email us at info@solitairejewellery.com.au

Solitaire Jewellery take no responsibility for damages or consequential changes in the appearance of my jewellery as a result of works/repairs carried out on your pieces. Please note by resizing/repairing/altering/remodelling your piece may result in occurrences like but not limited to:

  • Stones falling out or becoming loose during or after works
  • Stones cracking or burning due to the application of heat or pressure
  • Change in gemstone or diamond appearance due to application of heat or pressure (including clarity-enhanced gemstones)
  • Change in colour or condition of gold/metal
  • Visible solder marks
  • Loss of engraving or stamps
  • Damage due to pre-existing metal faults discovered during the course of the repair

During the jewellery cleaning process, items are buffed, polished and cleaned in an ultrasonic and steam cleaner. This obviously results in a beautiful shiny finish, but also can cause the following:

  • Loosening of settings
  • Loss of gemstones
  • Removing of plating including gold-plated and rhodium plated items
  • Removing of oxidisation
  • Change in colour of coloured gemstones
  • Change in appearance of highly included diamonds or clarity enhanced diamonds
Solitaire Jewellery will not be held liable for any incidentals for all the above. 

BRAND

At Solitaire Jewellery, we pride ourselves on exceptional quality, craftsmanship, and attention to detail in every piece we create. Our designs blend timeless elegance with a contemporary touch, ensuring each piece truly invests in beauty and style. All our diamonds are ethically sourced and carefully selected to meet our high standards.

We welcome you to visit our showrooms to experience our collections firsthand. We are located at Fountain Gate Shopping Centre and Casey Central Shopping Centre. Walk-ins are welcome, but if you are thinking about having something custom-made or want to explore our engagement ring collection in detail, please contact us to book an appointment with one of our jewellery specialists. They can guide you through our pieces and assist you in making a perfect choice.

VALUATIONS

The most common reason people choose to have their jewellery valued is for insurance purposes. Sometimes it is nice to have jewellery valued to give you piece of mind after making a purchase. Jewellery valuations may also be needed for estates and divorce settlements.

It will cost $120. If the item requires further testing and examination, we would not deem this a standard valuation and will incur an additional testing fee of $20. 

Whilst your item is being assessed for valuation, you are welcome to wait in our showroom. For security reasons, the valuations are conducted from our private office, out of sight, so your items are kept safe.

Standard valuations are conducted from our Fountain Gate showroom every Saturday morning. If the item requires off-site testing, it will be taken to our valuer’s laboratory for further examination. In this case, you will need to wait a few additional days to collect your item. 

Due to the nature of the second-hand jewellery market, it would be unlikely that you’d be able to sell your piece for its value. Jewellery valuations are normally done for insurance purposes, not for resale purposes.

No appointment is necessary! Our valuer visits us in-store every Saturday morning between 9:30 and 10:30 am. If you’d prefer to avoid an early start on a Saturday morning, we suggest you bring your item in on the Friday night before. 

Assuming your item does not need to be taken for XRF testing, you will be able to pick up your jewellery by around noon that same Saturday. The valuation certificate will arrive in the store the following Saturday and may be posted to you if you wish. 

Diamond certificates, receipts, or previous valuations are always helpful to have on hand, so please bring them if you have them. 

Given the nature of the ever-changing jewellery market, we recommend updating your jewellery valuations every 3-5 years, along with updating your insurance coverage.

Marek Duig from Jewellery Valuations Australia is an accredited Gemologist and GIA graduate. You can find out more about Marek on his website here.

As a general rule of thumb, if an item will cost more than $1,000 to replace, we suggest valuing it and having it insured. Items worth more than $1,000 generally need to be accompanied by a valuation to gain insurance from an insurance company. 

Details will vary depending on the piece being valued. A diamond engagement ring, for example, will include the gold karat, diamond weight, colour, clarity and any certificate ID numbers, along with a description and weight in grams. A photo will also be included. Your name and address may also be included on the certificate at your request. The value in Australian dollars will, of course, be included.