How to Take Care of Your Jewelry
As you get older and start to collect more valuable pieces of jewelry, it’s essential to learn how to properly care for them. Although cleaning and caring for your jewelry may not have been a priority growing up, as the pieces were probably trendier and cheaper, the jewelry that you acquire throughout your adult life are ones that will hopefully last you a long time; When taken care of correctly, they can even last forever! Here are a few tips to take care of your valued jewelry.
When to Remove Jewelry
If you’re working with your hands, you should always take off your jewelry to protect it. No matter what type of metal or material your jewelry is made from, it’s delicate. Before working with any chemicals or abrasives, such as cleaning products, be sure to remove your rings and bracelets. You should also take them off before playing any sports or going to the gym to avoid damage. We also recommend taking all jewelry off before swimming, especially in pools that contain chlorine.
Put Jewelry on Last
When you’re getting ready in the morning or dressing up for a night out, it’s best to wait to put on your jewelry as the final step. You may not realize it, but there’s a sufficient amount of chemicals in the products you use, from hair spray to makeup, and perfume. It’s also best to avoid lotion, as it can build up on your jewelry.
Storing & Traveling Separately
Even if you’re extremely careful when wearing your jewelry, damage can still occur if it’s not stored properly. Necklaces with delicate chains can easily become tangled together, or pieces can knock against one another, causing scratches. Pearls, precious metals, and some gemstones are particularly fragile. Storing your special pieces in individual cloth pouches or cases is a great way to keep them safe. This is especially important when traveling, as tossing your jewelry in toiletry cases or makeup bags can cause immense damage. Try using a travel jewelry case of jewelry rolls that will keep your valuables safe!
Jewelry Care Kit
Having certain jewelry cleaning and care items handy at your house will make it easier for you to give your pieces the attention that they need! Here’s a list of a few items you may need:
- Chamois cloth for polishing and drying
- Soft-bristled brush to clean smaller crevices
- Rubbing alcohol, only for use on hard gems and metals
- Jewelry cleaner for gemstones, diamonds, and precious metals
Know When to Call a Professional Jeweler
Although minor repairs and cleaning can be done at home, most repairs should be left to the experts. Taking your valuables to a professional jeweler will ensure they are fixed properly, and avoid causing further damage by doing it yourself. At Bostonian Jewelers, we offer a variety of repair and restoration services, including missing gemstones, bent rings, ring sizing, microlaser welding, cleaning, and polishing. You can feel confident about leaving your valuables in our hands. To take advantage of any of our services, get in contact with us today! Fill out an online form or give us a call at 617-523-2934.