If you had to list your most prized possessions, it’s safe to say that jewelry would be at the top of the list. This means taking proper care of these items is essential for them to last a lifetime. Whether it’s a gold watch or diamond ring, necklace, cufflinks, and beyond—meticulous attention must be paid if you want these pieces in pristine condition.
If you wish to preserve and hand your jewelry down for generations, this guide will teach you the proper way to care for it! Below are instructions explicitly designed to maintain your jewelry’s splendor and quality; follow them if you desire a precious heirloom.
How to Protect Jewelry from Damage
The first and foremost method of protecting your jewelry is to ensure it stays away from dirt, dust, grease, and other elements that could cause permanent damage. If you know you’ll be heading out in the elements or around harsh chemicals, remove any jewelry beforehand as a precautionary measure.
Of course, leaving a diamond ring or jewelry unattended in a room can also be dangerous, so keep it in a safe place when not wearing it. Jewelry boxes or cases are great storage solutions that protect your pieces while keeping them organized and looking neat. Additionally, store individual jewelry separately as they may scratch each other due to friction if placed together.
One of the most critical steps is the cleaning and polishing your jewelry regularly. This can be done with a soft cloth, warm water, and mild soap or liquid jewelry cleaner. Remember to rinse the pieces thoroughly before drying them off, as residue from the soap might damage gold and silver if left on too long.
If you have special Ideaure jewelry or any antique or vintage pieces that require special attention, take them to a professional cleaner specializing in them. This will ensure optimal cleaning without compromising the integrity of the details.
Finally, always check for loose stones, clasps, or settings often. If necessary, replace them with an experienced jeweler before the pieces become lost or damaged beyond repair. Furthermore, here are some tips to follow when storing and handling your jewelry:
1. Keep your metals away from wood
Although wooden jewelry cases are attractive, they are not a smart choice. Wood is a naturally occurring material that once was alive. It has been found to emit organic acids even as a polished end product. They’re similar to acetic and formic acids.
And if you’ve taken even the most elementary science lessons, you know that acid corrodes practically anything it comes into contact with. Any piece made of metal will tarnish and lose its color and brilliance over time.
So stay away from wood items if you want to preserve your metallic jewelry to look its best. Leather jewelry cases are also a poor choice as they’re highly porous and can absorb moisture and perfume from the air.
The best way to protect your jewelry is to buy pieces with their own case or look for metallic boxes or bags specifically designed for jewelry. Not only do these provide safe storage, but many have special compartments for individual pieces, so you can easily organize your collection.
Regardless of your storage type, cleaning and drying your items before putting them away is essential. This will help preserve their condition and free them from dust and dirt. To finish the job, some silica gel packets in the storage container will absorb moisture and reduce the risk of tarnishing.
By taking a few simple steps, you can ensure your jewelry stays looking its best for years. With proper care, you’ll enjoy wearing your pieces with pride.
You can also look into protective plastic bags or unique jewelry polishes to keep your items looking their best. With a little effort and proper storage, you can keep your jewelry shining like new for many years.
2. Store Jewelry in a cool, dry location
Jewelry, whether made of metal or wood, is prone to corrosion and mold when exposed to water. Tarnishing and rust will cause your metals to deteriorate in quality, while wooden pieces may become covered with unsightly mildew. Therefore you must protect your precious items from moisture and dampness as much as possible.
If you reside in a high-moisture area, maximize the durability of your items by storing them securely inside an airtight ziplock bag. This way, you can ensure that your jewelry is kept safe from the dangers of water and humidity.
If you cannot wholly avoid exposing your jewelry to moisture, clean it as soon as possible. Ensure all wetness is removed using a soft cloth or a cleaning solution specifically designed for jewelry.
Additionally, if you plan on swimming or taking a shower, it is advisable to remove your jewelry beforehand. Chlorine and other chemicals in pool water can damage the surface of your jewelry, so don’t risk it!
3. A Dehumidifier should be used to store your Jewelry
Because we’ve already mentioned how moisture harms your jewelry, you can use dehumidifiers like silica gel packs to keep moisture at bay over time. These substances are excellent because they trap all the water in the atmosphere, and because the jewelry is close by, it stays dry and safe.
Silica packs are the tiny white sachet that comes with new shoes if you’re wondering where to obtain them. So, keep them close when you get a new pair and put them alongside your necklaces and earrings instead of throwing them away.
4. Avoid contact with grooming products
Shampoo sprays, fragrances, moisturizers, oils, and scented lotions are inappropriate for your jewelry. They tarnish and reduce the life of the jewelry. Cosmetics and grooming products contain substances that may or may not be damaging to your skin but have the inverse effect on your jewelry.
Some of these chemicals may cause a redox reaction in your jewelry, causing it to lose its brilliance and appeal. It can also lead to discoloration and tarnishing of the metal over time.
To keep your jewelry looking its best, apply products before putting on it, and keep it away from colognes, hairspray, oils, lotions, and other products containing chemicals or alcohol.
Final Words
Jewelry has the potential to last for generations. By following these simple tips and taking proper care of your items, you can ensure that your jewelry remains in excellent condition and retains its beauty for years to come.
Remember: proper storage, cleaning, and maintenance are critical factors in preserving the quality of your jewelry. With a little effort, you can enjoy wearing your jewelry with pride for many years.
