The Gemological Atelier by Harald Gemstone Sales and Solutions
1. Clean Your Jewelry Regularly
Dirt, oils from your skin, and other contaminants can dull the brilliance of your jewelry over time. Regular cleaning is key to maintaining its shine. For most pieces, a gentle cleaning solution of warm water and mild dish soap will suffice. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to scrub away grime in hard-to-reach places, such as behind gemstones or intricate settings. Be sure to rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.
For pieces with diamonds, gold, or platinum, you can also use a jewelry cleaning solution specifically designed for these materials. However, always check with your jeweler if you’re unsure which products are safe to use.
2. Store Your Jewelry Properly
When you’re not wearing your jewelry, it’s essential to store it safely to prevent damage. Store each piece separately in a soft-lined jewelry box or pouch to avoid scratching and tangling. Keep pieces made of different metals apart, as harder metals can scratch softer ones. For example, gold can be scratched by platinum or diamonds.
Additionally, consider storing delicate items like chains or bracelets in their own compartments to avoid the risk of them getting tangled. If you travel with your jewelry, a travel case with individual compartments can protect your precious pieces from the bumps and scrapes of the journey.
3. Avoid Contact with Harsh Chemicals
Harsh chemicals, including household cleaners, perfumes, hairsprays, and lotions, can cause irreversible damage to your jewelry. These substances can weaken the metal, dull the finish, or cause gemstones to lose their luster. Always remove your jewelry before applying any personal care products, and wait until they are fully absorbed before putting your jewelry back on.
If you find that your jewelry has come into contact with harsh chemicals, clean it as soon as possible with a gentle solution to minimize any damage.
4. Be Mindful of Where You Wear Your Jewelry
While your jewelry is made to withstand wear and tear, there are certain activities that can expose it to unnecessary risks. Avoid wearing your jewelry when swimming in pools or hot tubs, as chlorine can damage metals and stones. Similarly, take your jewelry off before doing any heavy lifting or physical activity, as the stress could lead to scratches, bends, or breaks.
For those who love outdoor adventures, be cautious when wearing jewelry in nature. While hiking or camping, for example, rough branches or stones can scratch and damage the surface of your pieces.
5. Keep Your Jewelry Away from Extreme Temperatures
Extreme heat or cold can cause significant damage to your jewelry, especially to gemstones. High temperatures can cause stones like opals and pearls to crack, while extreme cold may affect the integrity of certain metals. Avoid leaving your jewelry in places where temperature fluctuations are extreme, such as near radiators, in your car, or under direct sunlight for prolonged periods.
When storing your jewelry, ensure that it’s kept in a cool, dry place that maintains a stable temperature year-round.
6. Get Your Jewelry Professionally Inspected and Serviced
Even with careful maintenance, jewelry can require occasional professional attention. At The Gemological Atelier by Harald, we recommend bringing your pieces in for an annual inspection. A trained jeweler can check for loose stones, worn prongs, and other potential issues that could lead to damage. They can also clean and polish your jewelry to restore its shine and sparkle.
For valuable or intricate pieces, consider a professional cleaning every six months to ensure they stay in optimal condition.
7. Protect Your Jewelry During Work and Sleep
Certain activities, such as working with your hands or sleeping, can put unnecessary stress on your jewelry. It’s wise to remove rings, bracelets, and necklaces before going to bed or engaging in physical work. Jewelry can become scratched or bent, or stones may become dislodged during these activities. For those who wear engagement rings, wedding bands, or bracelets during the day, make sure to remove them when doing any tasks that could put excessive strain on them, such as gardening or cleaning.
8. Be Gentle with Your Jewelry
While jewelry is often designed for durability, it’s always best to treat it with care. Avoid pulling on chains, twisting rings, or exposing jewelry to rough handling. The gentler you are with your pieces, the longer they will retain their beauty. Be especially cautious with delicate designs or those featuring gemstones, as they can be more prone to damage.
9. Know Your Jewelry’s Material
Different metals and gemstones require specific care, so it’s essential to know what materials your jewelry is made from. Gold, for instance, is a relatively soft metal and can scratch easily, while platinum is more durable. Similarly, gemstones like sapphires and rubies are more resistant to scratching, while softer stones such as opals, pearls, and emeralds require extra care. Always ask your jeweler about the specific care instructions for your pieces to ensure they stay in the best condition possible.
10. Insure Your Jewelry
Even with the best care, accidents happen. Jewelry can be lost, stolen, or damaged. We recommend insuring your jewelry, especially valuable pieces, so that you can have peace of mind knowing that it’s protected. Speak with your insurance provider about the best coverage options for your jewelry, and make sure to get your pieces appraised regularly to maintain accurate coverage.
