Jewelry adds a touch of brilliance to any look. But for your pieces to continue shining, proper care is essential. Scratches, chips, and other damage can dull their beauty, but with the right attention, it's easy to maintain their original splendor—even at home. Follow these simple tips to protect your jewelry.
1. Remove Jewelry During Physical Activity
Whether you're washing dishes, cleaning the house, or hitting the gym, take off your jewelry. Physical activity can deform metal parts and chip stones. There’s also a risk that stones may loosen and fall out.
2. Avoid Contact with Cosmetics and Cleaning Products
Take off your jewelry before applying creams, lotions, or any cosmetic products, and wait until they’re fully absorbed before putting your jewelry back on. Certain chemicals in these products can discolor metal or damage surfaces. The same applies to household cleaners. Also, avoid wearing jewelry when washing hands, showering, or applying hair sprays and perfumes.
3. Protect Jewelry from Heat and Sunlight
Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and heat can damage jewelry, especially delicate gemstones like turquoise, amber, pearls, and coral. They can fade, lose their luster, or even crack. Keep your jewelry away from heat sources and sun to preserve their beauty.
4. Keep Jewelry Away from Saltwater and Chlorinated Pools
Saltwater and chlorine can tarnish metals and damage stones. If you've worn your jewelry while swimming, rinse it with fresh water afterward to prevent damage. Ideally, avoid wearing jewelry in the pool or sea altogether.
5. Avoid Stacking Jewelry
Wearing multiple rings on one finger or layering bracelets can cause them to scratch or rub against each other. Be gentle when removing and stacking jewelry to prevent damage.
6. Store Jewelry Properly
Store your jewelry in dry, lined cases to avoid scratches and tangling. Don’t pile jewelry together—especially pieces with stones. Harder gems can scratch metals and other stones. Avoid storing jewelry on hard surfaces like porcelain or marble trays, as they can also cause damage.
7. Clean Jewelry Regularly
Use a soft chamois, flannel, or special jewelry wipes to restore shine to your pieces. Silver tarnishes without regular cleaning, so wipe it down with a soft cloth or gently brush it with warm soapy water. For diamonds, a monthly soak in warm, soapy water helps maintain their sparkle.
8. Avoid DIY Cleaning Methods
Although you might find DIY cleaning tips online using baking soda, vinegar, lemon juice, or ammonia, these methods can harm your jewelry. Stick to professional jewelry cleaners and follow their instructions. Once a year, consider having your jewelry professionally cleaned to ensure all stones are secure and the pieces are in top condition.
9. Don’t Sleep in Your Jewelry
Sleeping with jewelry on can cause it to catch on fabric or hair, which may result in damage to both the jewelry and your skin. Always remove it before bed.
10. Travel with Care
When traveling, pack your jewelry in hard cases to avoid bending or damage. Keep it with you in your carry-on luggage, as checked bags can be risky for valuable items in more ways than one.
