Fine jewelry is a precious possession that is designed and crafted to last a lifetime. However, proper care is required to assure the lasting qualities of your jewelry. Below are some simple, basic guidelines for the care and cleaning of your fine jewelry:

 

• Store your jewelry in a clean, dry place.

• Visit your jeweler every six months to have your jewelry professionally cleaned and checked for loose stones, worn mountings, and general wear and tear.

• Apply all cosmetics, lotions, sunscreen, perfumes, and colognes before putting on your jewelry.

• Store in a fabric-lined box and prevent them from moving around to keep them from scratching each other or chains tangling. For travel, use a box with compartments, or simply use a soft tissue to individually wrap each piece.

• Use caution when removing your jewelry to wash your hands. Do not leave jewelry on the rim of a sink where it can easily slip down the drain.

• Never expose jewelry to harmful chemicals such as household cleaners and bleach.

• Always remove jewelry before entering a pool, hot tub, or spa as to avoid Chlorine and other chemicals which can harm your jewelry. Also, remove before getting in saltwater.

• Inventory your jewelry and insure it in case of being lost, stolen, or damaged.

• Have frequently-worn pearls restrung as necessary, with a knot between each pearl to prevent loss if the string breaks. This also prevents the pearls from scratching each other.

• Do not submerge gold jewelry or soft gemstones in silver cleaner.

• Use ultrasonic cleaners with caution. Your local jeweler can tell you if an ultrasonic is right for your jewelry wardrobe and, if it is, recommend an appropriate model.

• When performing manual tasks or playing sports, remove your jewelry to prevent physical damage

• Use only a soft brush, never sharp or hard objects, to remove dirt or particles.

• Avoid cleaning damaged jewelry as it can worsen the problem. It should be set aside until repaired.

• Out of jewelry cleaner? You can give your jewelry a quick at home cleaning with a mixture of warm water and a mild dish soap.