Jewelry Care Guide
Fashion Jewelry Care Tips from the Experts at Rumanoff’s Jewelry
Several factors can affect how fast jewelry can tarnish. From the oil on the skin to the moisture in the air, there are many elements that can pose a danger to your jewelry’s longevity. Learn how to keep your precious necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings safe with our jewelry care guide from the professionals at Rumanoff’s Jewelry.
Tip 1: Keep It Dry
Moisture has an adverse effect on most precious metals. It is important that all jewelry is removed before coming into contact with water, whether that is for swimming or simply washing your hands. Even the liquid in lotion and perfume can speed up the process of discoloration, which is why it is important to wait for those products to dry on the skin before putting anything on. If a piece of jewelry comes into contact with moisture at any point in time, wipe it with a cloth immediately.
Tip 2: Keep It Clean
Mild soap, warm water, and a soft-bristled brush are the easiest at-home cleaning tools available to most households. Using gentle, circular motions, treasured pieces can radiate like brand new after a cleaning session. However, not all metals and gemstones respond well to such treatment. Gemstones like topaz and moonstone can be damaged by heat, and metal can be scratched if rubbed too vigorously. It is better to visit a professional jewelry cleaner to remove stubborn stains on intricately carved pieces or delicate gemstone jewelry.
Tip 3: Take It Off
Jewelry can easily become entangled when clothing is being taken off. A chain can snag against the fabric and break. Earrings can become ensnared in sweaters and either break or injure the earlobe. Even forgetting to remove a bracelet before bed runs the risk of damage in the middle of the night. A good rule of thumb to avoid anything breaking or causing harm to yourself is to have jewelry be the first thing taken off and the last piece put on when getting dressed.
Tip 4: Store It Properly
Keep your pieces in tip-top shape by properly storing them. As mentioned earlier, moisture is jewelry’s enemy. Another danger to look out for is the very air that surrounds it. Oxidation is the chemical reaction that happens when metals are exposed to air for a long period of time. A common, easy way to combat this is to store jewelry in a Ziplock bag that has all the air pushed out of it before it is closed. Another way is to place anti-tarnish strips into jewelry boxes, which is especially effective for sterling silver jewelry.
Professional Jewelry Cleaning Services at Rumanoff’s Jewelry
Some jewelry needs to be handled by a professional. Rumanoff’s Jewelry has been trusted since 1938 to keep heirloom pieces in excellent condition. Our jewelry repair services utilize the technology needed for bridal and fashion jewelry’s unique needs. Contact us to see how we can help maintain the quality of your luxury jewelry pieces today.
