Owning a piece of fine jewelry that you can proudly wear can be an investment, but the sheer joy of getting to wear it time and time again is priceless. Unfortunately, gemstones can lose their sparkle, and metals can also lose their sheen over time. That’s why it’s important that you have a proper cleaning routine in place to preserve the beauty and longevity of your beloved pieces. By caring for your jewelry diligently, you not only safeguard your investment but also have the ability to pass it down to the next generation.
Here are some steps to ensure that your jewelry remains in pristine condition.
Store it properly
We’ve all been guilty of carelessly tossing a diamond tennis bracelet or a pair of camélia earrings on a dresser at the end of a particularly busy day. However, this casual approach can lead to scratches and tangles over time. A better alternative is to invest in a jewelry box with compartments to ensure that each piece is separated and protected. Store the jewelry box in a place that’s not too cold or hot, and away from direct sunlight.
Keep away from chemicals
Make sure you don’t have any jewelry on before applying sunscreen, perfume, makeup, and skincare products. Many of these products may contain chemicals that can damage the appearance of metals, discolor gemstones, or weaken the components of your jewelry. Wait until your skin has fully absorbed your skincare and makeup products before wearing your pave diamond curb chain necklace or Catene gold link bracelet, for instance.
Use a mild cleanser
When it comes to washing jewelry, the simplest method is usually the most effective, and often involves materials you already have at home. A simple solution of water and dish soap, along with a soft cloth, can work wonders in restoring your jewelry. Anything harsher than this could be potentially damaging, especially for gemstones that have a low score on the Mohs hardness scale. While ultrasonic cleaners may seem quick to clean and super convenient, they should be used with caution. For example, the vibrations produced by these machines can potentially loosen gemstones from their prongs in a London Blue topaz fashion ring, or dislodge the diamonds in a bezel round diamond ring.
When in doubt, take it off
It’s always best to err on the side of caution and remove your jewelry before engaging in certain strenuous activities. Whether you’re hitting the gym for an intense workout, using strong household cleaners for a deep cleaning session, or going on a beach vacation, leaving your jewelry behind would be a wise and practical decision.
Working out will subject your jewelry to excessive sweat and movement, increasing the risk of damage or loss. Household cleaners often contain harsh chemicals that can damage both delicate gemstones and metals. Exposure to saltwater, sand, and sunscreen at the beach can also wreak havoc on your cherished pieces. The next time you’re unsure whether to wear your jewelry, remember: when in doubt, it’s better to keep your yellow gold bangle or paperclip necklace safe.
Have it regularly serviced
Even if you are regularly cleaning your pieces at home, there may be some dirt that has accumulated in hard-to-reach areas, or subtle damages that go unnoticed by the untrained eye. When it comes to cleaning fine jewelry, Houston’s Zadok Jewelers should be your first destination. We offer top-notch cleaning and care services ranging from routine maintenance to major repairs. Give us a call today so we can give your jewelry the care it deserves.
