Fine jewelry is a valuable and often sentimental investment, so it is important to treasure it and take good care of it. Follow the steps below to ensure that your precious ring, necklace, bracelet, earrings or other pieces stay in immaculate condition for many years to come.
Treat It Carefully
Some types of fine jewelry can be easily damaged, especially if they have delicate clasps, complicated designs or especially thin chains. Being too rough with these pieces can result in damage or even breakage, so it is best to exercise care and use a light, gentle touch when putting them on and taking them off. If an accident does happen and your jewelry suffers damage, seek out a well-regarded professional jeweler to perform any necessary repairs.
Keep It Organized
The last thing you want to do with a valuable piece of jewelry is to set it down somewhere where it could easily be lost. Decide on a designated place where you will store your jewelry, and make sure that you put it there at the end of each day. The area where you store your jewelry should be temperature-controlled and out of the reach of any pets or small children. Either a jewelry box or velvet jewelry organizer trays are effective and aesthetically pleasing ways to keep track of your treasures. Necklaces and bracelets should be kept apart, so that their chains do not get tangled.
Clean and Polish it Regularly
Even the most gorgeous metal jewelry loses its luster over time without proper maintenance. To keep your pieces shining brightly, wipe them with a soft polishing cloth whenever you notice smudges. (Avoid using paper towels to wipe jewelry, since they are rough and can create scratches). Then, rub them with gentle dish soap and cool water or a specialized jewelry cleaner. While this basic method of cleaning works on a surface level for almost any type of jewelry, some metals require additional cleaning. For instance, you can reduce tarnishing on silver by cleaning it with baking soda. Ask your jeweler for specific advice regarding your most treasured pieces.
Fine jewelry is a precious heirloom that endures for generations. If you are lucky enough to have one or more treasured pieces, either inherited from parents or grandparents or purchased recently, enjoy them while also treating them with the care and respect that they deserve. One day, your own child or grandchild may wear them proudly.