Fine jewelry represents a significant financial investment, along with priceless sentimental value. So naturally, you want to keep it in top shape. Fortunately, with proper care, your jewelry will not only last a lifetime but go on to become a treasured family heirloom. Our jewelry care guide will tell you everything you need to know to keep your jewelry dazzling long into the future.
Keep Your Containers for Jewelry Care
Proper storage is a vital part of jewelry care. When you purchase your jewelry, save the box or pouch that comes with your new piece, and use it to store your jewelry when you’re not wearing it. This is the best way to protect your jewelry from damage, since these containers are designed to protect the specific type of jewelry you purchased.
If you acquire jewelry that did not come with a box or pouch, you’ll need to find an appropriate container. Jewelry boxes that contain padded slots and posts are a good choice.
Don’t forget to keep your jewelry in separate containers from your other jewelry to avoid scratching your pieces on one another.
Protect Jewelry From Potential Hazards
The best way to keep your jewelry in pristine condition is never to expose it to hazardous substances or conditions that could damage it — and these are more common than you might think! So remove your jewelry, properly clean it, and store it any time you engage in activities that could otherwise expose your jewelry to harm.
These include:
- Chemicals like cleaners, chlorine, lotion, hairspray, cosmetics, and perfume, which may damage or cause color changes in the metal.
- Saltwater can also damage and weaken your jewelry.
- Sports and other activities where your jewelry may be jostled or sustain an impact.
- Gardening or other activities where your jewelry could be exposed to abrasive substances like dirt and sand.
To check for loose stones, bring the piece by your ear and tap it, if you hear a rattling sound that means your diamond is loose in the setting and will saw the metal. It’s significantly cheaper to get the setting tightened than to replace a diamond.
Carefully Clean Jewelry
An abundance of jewelry cleaning kits, dips, and devices exist on the market, but it’s best to avoid them. They are frequently too harsh on your jewelry and may damage it. Opt for gentle jewelry care methods instead. And remember, you should always clean your jewelry inside a cup or other container so it doesn’t accidentally fall down the drain!
Cleaning your jewelry will only require warm water and mild dish soap. Most jewelry can be cleaned with a soft toothbrush or a dental device that uses pulsing water, like a Waterpik, along with a soft cloth that won’t generate lint. Dip the brush in soapy water and softly brush your diamonds. Then, allow your jewelry to dry completely on a towel before touching or storing it.
Between Cleanings to Keep Jewelry Maintained
Between cleanings, you should always gently wipe off your jewelry with a soft cloth to remove oils, sweat, and other substances that have built up during the day. If you do this each time you wear your jewelry, you’ll prevent a lot of wear and tear from occurring.
The right jewelry care will ensure your jewelry retains its beauty and value long into the future. So be sure to follow the correct cleaning and storage procedures for each piece, and protect your jewelry from potential hazards.
Need Some Help with Your Jewelry? Our Diamond Experts Are Here
Do you have more questions about what you need to know for jewelry care or maybe your Carbon Diamonds jewelry? We’re happy to help! Visit us in our showroom, give us a call, or contact us. We also offer professional jewelry cleanings and inspections at no charge. We look forward to speaking with you soon!
Carbon Diamonds advises seeking the expertise of a reputable jewelry professional for cleaning your jewelry. Whether you choose professional services or decide to clean your jewelry and gemstones yourself following the suggestions in this article, you accept full responsibility for the outcomes. Carbon Diamonds absolves itself of any liability for items not cleaned by our in-house team.