The jewelry you buy today is the family heirloom you pass on tomorrow. Dust, pollution, and daily wear can all take its toll. But with the right jewelry care like proper storage, regular maintenance, and a couple of bits of know-how, you can safeguard your necklaces, family rings, and bridal jewelry from tarnishing, scratching, and dulling. Here’s what you need to know about luxury jewelry care.
Be Sensitive with Silver
Silver that’s used regularly typically needs less care, but sterling silver does tarnish. As a general rule of thumb, it’s best to avoid dip polish, ultrasonics, or abrasive cleaners unless you get your jeweler’s approval first. They can contain harsh chemicals and can actually damage jewelry if done improperly.
Instead, use a soft non-abrasive and lint-free cloth to bring out the brilliance and shine on your engagement ring or wedding band. For maximum beauty, you should aim to polish silver (and platinum) at least once a month.
When storing silver, be sure to keep pieces dry and store them properly in a sealed plastic bag or airtight box. Since they oxidize over time, this will help prevent tarnishing. Keep them out of extreme heat and humidity, both of which can also cause tarnishing.
Plan Professional Maintenance for Gold and Platinum Bridal Jewelry
Obviously certain jewelry, bridal pieces like wedding bands especially, are expected to be worn every day. But certain activities—high-contact sports, gardening, ceramic work—have a higher risk of damage to diamonds or ring settings.
Also, chemicals in your perfume, hairspray, lotions, etc. can damage fine jewelry over time, so it’s ideal that your jewelry is the last thing on, and the first thing off. And If you’re going for a dip, whether in waves or a wading pool, err on the side of caution and ditch your jewelry first. Chlorine and saltwater can damage precious metals and gemstones.
For all of the above reasons, most jewelry professionals and designers alike will tell you to have your bridal jewelry inspected every six to twelve months by your local jeweler. They’ll ensure the prongs are secure and give your ring a nice sparkle and polish that’ll make it feel brand-new again.
Store Gemstones to Avoid Scratches
Certain gemstones such as amethyst, emeralds, opal, and pearl are all delicate and easily abraded. Safeguarding them in proper storage (like gemstone cases or jars with dividers and foam) will minimize dulling and scratching that can happen if they knock against each other too much.
Pearls require a little extra jewelry care since they’re porous. They shouldn’t be stored where it’s too dry or airtight or else they can dry out and even possibly crack.
Trust Rumanoff’s Fine Jewelry With Your Jewelry Care Needs
If you happen to experience the unlucky misfortune of needing to get jewelry fixed, we have a team of dedicated staff at our jewelry stores skilled at fixing and repairing fine jewelry and timepieces. Give us a call at 203-230-1199 to set up an appointment or learn more about our extensive list of services.
