A sparkling diamond engagement ring, a delicate gold bracelet, a vintage family heirloom… each piece of jewelry tells a story. But without the proper care, these pieces can become dull over time.
To keep your precious jewelry looking as radiant as the day you received it, a little care and attention go a long way.
Why Proper Care Is Key
It can be easy to overlook taking care of your jewelry; precious metals and gemstones are surprisingly delicate, especially if you wear your wedding ring or solitaire engagement ring every day. Gold and silver scratch easily, while diamonds, though the hardest natural substance on earth (for now), can still chip if hit at the wrong angle.
By taking the time to care for your jewelry, you can maintain and preserve its value so that it can last for generations.
Cleaning Your Jewelry
Do:
- Use a mild dish soap and warm water mixture. This works wonders on most pieces.
- Soak your jewelry for a few minutes, gently scrub it with a soft toothbrush, and rinse thoroughly.
- Be extra careful with delicate items. Take extra care around the prongs and setting to avoid loosening the diamond.
Don’t:
- Use harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia, as they can corrode metals and dull gemstones.
- Apply ultrasonic cleaners to softer gemstones like pearls or opals.
Proper Storage To Prevent Damage
It’s important to use a jewelry box lined with soft fabric or individual pouches to keep pieces separated. Gold and silver scratch easily when they rub against each other, so place them in separate compartments.
For engagement rings and other delicate items, consider using a small box with a secure latch to protect them from dust and accidental knocks. A cool, dry place away from direct sunlight is ideal.
Protecting Jewelry From Harsh Chemicals
Everyday products like lotions, perfumes, and household cleaners can wreak havoc on jewelry. Common chemicals include chlorine. If you swim regularly, you may find exposure to this in the pool can weaken gold and other metals, so remember to remove jewelry before you get in the water.
Oils and chemicals from skincare products are also a common issue. These can leave a film on gemstones, dulling their sparkle.
If you forget to remove your jewelry, give it a gentle wipe afterward to remove any residue.
Regular Inspections
Even with regular care, jewelry can develop loose prongs or worn settings. Regularly inspect your jewelry at home and look for loose stones or signs of wear. For valuable pieces like engagement rings, it’s best to schedule a professional inspection at least once a year. A jeweler can use their tools to secure stones and metals.
Jewelry can easily get damaged when you hit the gym or do some gardening. When in doubt, take off your jewelry to avoid unnecessary damage and seek help from a professional for repairs if you need to.
