We all love buying jewelry, right? Whether it is for an occasion like a wedding or any other special event, buying jewelry is high on our list of priorities. Having a collection of beautiful high-quality jewelry is a matter of pride and joy.
Diane Von Furstenberg once said, “Jewelry is just like the perfect spice – it always compliments what’s already there.”
Sadly, not many of us are able to care for our precious jewels properly. If you want your precious jewelry items to last a lifetime, it is very important to ensure that they are stored properly when not in use. Here are some tips and tricks that will help you care for your jewelry!
However, before we proceed any further, we should keep in mind that the main reason why jewelry begins to look dull and lifeless is tarnishing and corrosion. When you keep your jewelry items safe from factors that promote rust and corrosion they will remain in good condition for sure.
Here are some effective ways to make your jewelry last longer:
Storing Your Jewelry
What happens when you leave your fancy car in the rain? It gets dirty! The same principle applies to your jewelry as well. You need to organize and have appropriate storage for your jewelry.
Jewelry items are made of alloys containing different metals. Some of these metals are sensitive to elements like high relative humidity, moisture, and air pollutants. So oxidation can occur on their surface at any time. This tarnishing of their surface is a form of corrosion. This corrosion could spread to other jewelry items when affected pieces get mixed in with them. So it is prudent to store your jewelry by type, or by the metal that they are made off, and place items in clean airtight containers, or in a way that ensures they are not exposed to harsh elements.
A multitude of jewelry boxes is available in the market. However, if you cannot get yourself one, you can simply use zip-lock plastic bags or cotton pouches as an alternative. Airtight containers will help stop your jewelry from tarnishing.
Jewelry Tip: Have a place on your dresser or nightstand where you can keep the jewelry that you wear every day, like your affordable bridal wedding ring sets or diamond earrings studs.
Separation is important
Make sure to do an inventory of your jewelry. If you do not want them to tarnish, separate them by base metal and store them in individual boxes. Do not keep two different types of jewelry items together in one box. This will prevent them from getting scratched and broken. This is true especially in the case of diamonds because they are capable of scratching other stones and metals.
Wearing or Placing Your Jewelry
Jewelry items are made of metal alloys, to ensure that they are strong and stunning. However, some of the base metals used to make jewelry are soft and prone to dents and other damage. When jewelry items are not placed or worn properly they can lose their shape, get knotted, twisted, or dented. This damage can take place even if they are not stored properly. Here are some examples of how jewelry should be stored properly
- Necklaces should be hung on hooks instead of keeping them in pouches. This prevents them from getting tangled to each other. Hanging necklaces helps you ensure that your precious jewelry remains in pristine condition.
- Little pieces of jewelry such as diamond stud earrings, solitaire rings, and bracelets should be stored in little zip lock bags to ensure safety and easy identification. If they are mixed up with each other friction may damage them.
Keep your jewelry dry
Do you get your jewels wet? If you do, be sure to wipe and dry them off! If you find that your jewelry is wet, take care to dry it off before you continue to wear it. This includes drying off anything that has moisture, like lotions, creams, moisturizers, etc. before wearing any jewelry. Moisturizers can cause oxidation, so it is best to apply them first, let them dry, and then wear your jewelry after that.
Cleaning your jewelry
Cleaning is a major part of caring for your jewelry. Here are some of the best practices to follow while cleaning jewelry:
- Do not use toothpaste –Toothpaste contains abrasive substances that could scratch the metal or stones. Do not use it to clean jewelry.
- Do not use harsh solvents – Do not use special polishes or cleaners to clean your jewelry. In most cases, you will find that using a soft clean cloth is sufficient.
- For sterling silver – Avoid using household silver polish. When you wish to clean sterling silver jewelry, we recommend that you soak the jewelry in a mixture of baking soda and water. Apply this mixture to a cloth and rub gently. After this rinse each piece in running warm water. Place them on a dry towel and allow them to air dry completely before wearing them again.
- Platinum – Platinum does not tarnish, but it can get scratched or dirty. Cleaning with a soft toothbrush and a mixture of soap and warm water should be enough to keep it looking new.
- Diamonds – Soak in lukewarm water with a few drops of mild washing soap once a week. Use a soft toothbrush to gently remove dirt. After that rinse in lukewarm water. Wipe off excess water, and leave to air dry completely before wearing.
Brides tip: The best way to clean your wedding rings at home is to make a solution of warm water and dishwashing soap. Soak your ring for about 15-20 minutes in this solution. Brush the stone gently with a very soft toothbrush and then rinse under warm running water. You can also use shampoo or body wash instead of dish soap.
Caring for your jewelry
As a general rule, be sure to put your jewelry on last and take it off first. If you are doing anything that will cause you to get wet, which includes swimming in chlorinated or salty water or participating in activities where you will sweat a lot, remove your jewelry first and store them away properly. Avoid wearing jewelry while bathing. And whenever you can, avoid wearing jewelry while cooking, cleaning, gardening, or while performing household chores.
Tip: “Remember, when you dress up, first wear your clothes then put your jewelry on. Doing this will prevent your jewelry from tarnishing. Secondly, take off your jewelry, before you take off your clothes.”
Keep Temperature And Humidity Levels Low And Consistent
High humidity speeds up the tarnishing process. Consider running an air conditioner or dehumidifier in the area where your jewelry is stored. Silica packets help by absorbing excess moisture, so you can keep them in your jewelry boxes.
Next, find a spot in your room where the temperature remains consistent. The more consistent the temperature is, the better it is for your valuable jewels. Consider keeping jewelry boxes inside an interior closet.
Conclusion
Caring for your fine jewelry properly is necessary. Maintaining the quality of your jewelry is not difficult. You can use the tricks above. They will help you care for your jewelry properly, and help you ensure that they stay sparking for years to come. These methods will surely help prolong the longevity and beauty of your jewelry. Make sure to check out our exquisite and timeless collections!
