December is usually when we begin clearing space, re-organising small corners of our home, preparing for gatherings, wrapping gifts, and slowly winding down from the momentum of the year.

It's also the perfect moment to give your jewellery a little care and attention.

Jewellery journeys with us more closely than we realise. It comes along for celebrations and quiet days. It absorbs perfume, humidity and the ordinary rhythms of daily wear. Giving each piece a gentle refresh now helps it stay beautiful for many years to come.

Here are a few simple ways to care for your jewellery as the year wraps up:

- Give everything a gentle clean

A bowl of warm water, mild soap and a soft toothbrush are often enough for gold pieces. Brush (I usually use an old toothbrush with soft bristles) gently around the back of gemstones where dust collects, rinse and pat dry with a lint-free cloth. It brings back clarity without harsh methods.

- Polish only if you need to

Some love the soft patina of worn gold, a glow that comes from life being lived. If you prefer a brighter shine, a polishing cloth will do the job. Light, slow strokes. Jewellery responds best to gentleness! Same applies for your silver jewellery.

- Store pieces intentionally

Gold can scratch when stored together, and gemstones can mark softer stones. Separate pouches or compartments help preserve the finish piece. I recommend you always keep the pouch in which your jewellery came with when bought. If you don't have it anymore, you can use jewellery organisers with felt compartments.

- Mind the humidity

In Singapore, airtight storage and a few silica gel packets (I keep those that come with dried food packaging) protect sterling silver and mixed-metal pieces from tarnishing.

- Check your settings

If a stone feels a little loose or if a prong seems lifted, bring it for a quick check. This is especially important for rings worn daily - they work hard without us noticing!!

Caring for jewellery at year's end is more than maintenance. It's a small ritual of appreciation, a moment to acknowledge the pieces that accompanied you through milestones, quiet moments, and the many chapters of the year!

A gentle reset, for both the pieces we wear and perhaps, for ourselves!