For many people, jewelry is more than just an accessory. It can express personal style, hold sentimental value, or symbolize the love between you and another person. However, tarnishing can quickly erode the beauty and charm of these pieces. Tarnishing occurs when metals, typically silver, react with oxygen and moisture in the air, leading to a dull appearance over time. 

You can keep your jewelry looking shiny and new with a few simple tips. Keep reading for some of our recommendations to prevent tarnishing. If your jewelry has already tarnished, contact Bostonian Jewelers for our jewelry repair and restoration services. 

Tip #1: Store Jewelry Properly to Prevent Tarnishing 

How you store your jewelry when you're not wearing it can be crucial in preventing tarnish. Always store your pieces in a cool, dry place, preferably away from direct sunlight and high humidity. These elements can cause your jewelry to tarnish quicker than in other environments. Consider using anit-tarnish bags or cloths designed to absorb moisture and prevent oxidation. If you have a jewelry box, ensure it's lined with a soft material. 

Tip #2: Avoid Tarnishing By Putting Your Jewelry On Last 

Believe it or not, one of the easiest ways to protect your jewelry is to constantly remove it when sleeping, showering, working out, etc., and always put it on last when you're getting ready again. Sweat, water, lotions, perfumes, and cosmetics can all impact the quality of your jewelry. The moisture and chemicals can accelerate tarnishing, so it's best to wait a few minutes to let your skin dry and absorb any products before putting on your jewelry. Making this a part of your daily routine reduces your jewelry's exposure to harmful elements. 

Tips #3: Clean Jewelry Regularly to Eliminate Wear and Tear

In addition to not wearing your jewelry while showering or applying products, you should also clean your jewelry regularly to avoid wear and tear and tarnish over time. A simple wipe with a soft, lint-free cloth will remove oils and specks of dirt that accumulate. For silver jewelry, consider using a silver polishing cloth treated with specific chemicals to help prevent tarnishing. Additionally, several products are designed to prevent tarnishing. Anti-tarnish sprays, for example, can create a protective barrier on the surface of your jewelry. At Bostonian Jewelers, we have a great jewelry cleaner for you to use to keep your jewelry in top condition. 

Get Your Jewelry Restored with Bostonian Jewelers 

Following the tips above, you can keep your jewelry collection looking beautiful and tarnish-free for years. Proper storage, regular cleaning, and mindful wear can make all the difference in preserving the brilliance of your pieces. If you need help maintaining your jewelry's quality, Bostonian Jewelers provides restoration and cleaning services to get your jewelry looking brand new again. 

There is a saying out there that diamonds are a girl's best friend. That may or may not be true, but a diamond is only as good—and protected—as the metal that encases it to keep it safe. Today, whether it is a diamond setting, another precious gemstone, or just a piece of metal jewelry, you'll see all varieties of metals and styles.

This begs the question: what is the most durable jewelry metal? In this article, we'll give you the insights you've sought. With our guidance, you can pick the metal that aligns with your style and will last the longest.

Understanding the Different Types of Metals Used in Jewelry

Let's start by discussing the different metals you see in jewelry today. There are far more available than you might realize. 

You'll come across a wide range of jewelry metals, each with unique qualities and appeal. Some of the most common ones include gold, silver, and platinum, which are famous for their timeless beauty and rarity. There's also titanium, known for its lightweight and strength, and stainless steel, which is appreciated for its affordability and resilience. 

Metals like palladium, tungsten, and various alloys are used to create pieces that cater to different tastes and budgets. But which of all of these is the strongest? Let's get to it.

The Strongest Jewelry Metals

Regarding the strongest metals for jewelry, the top contender is tungsten carbide. This once-unfamiliar metal has quickly become a favorite for men's wedding bands. Its superior scratch resistance means that a tungsten ring won't get scratched, making it perfect for those who want a ring that can withstand everyday wear and tear. However, tungsten rings are generally not the best option for women due to their weight and less traditional look.

Next in line is platinum. This long-lasting metal symbolizes true, enduring, and everlasting love. Platinum's density makes it an excellent choice for securing diamonds and other precious gemstones, providing strength and peace of mind that your jewelry will stay intact.

Surprisingly, gold is the softest of the jewelry metals, so jewelry makers highly favor it. Its softness allows for more detailed and intricate designs. Silver comes in second as another softer metal, ideal for creating beautiful, elaborate pieces.

When considering gold jewelry, it's essential to understand how gold-plated and gold-filled pieces differ, as you may see these descriptions at the jewelry store near you. Gold-plated jewelry has a thin layer of gold applied to a base metal, which can wear off over time. On the other hand, gold-filled jewelry has a thicker layer of gold bonded to the base metal, which means it will last longer.

Trying to Decide on the Best Metal for Your Jewelry?

If you are considering investing in a piece of jewelry, it is often best to speak with a jeweler who can advise you on the metal and the best pieces that align with the metal in question. Doing so can help you get a piece that you will love and stand the test of time.

If you are looking for a long-lasting piece of jewelry that you—or the intended recipient—will love for a lifetime, contact our expert jewelers at Bostonian Jewelers today.