Chances are, your favorite pieces of jewelry are priceless treasures that sparkle with memories and emotions. Each piece can bring you back to a time or a place, reminding you of loved ones and incredible milestones in your life. An engagement ring, for instance, is not just a band of silver set with a glittering diamond. This ring represents companionship, laughter and love that lasts a lifetime. The earrings you inherited from your grandmother are significant not because they are crafted of gold, but because they carry a family history and legacy with them. There’s nothing like your most cherished valuables and that’s why caring for these keepsakes is crucial, so that your jewelry continues to shine as brightly as it did when you first slipped it on. Here are some easy tips to help you keep your jewelry shimmering for years to come.
1. Store Your Jewelry Safely
Before storing your jewelry at the end of the day, wipe it off with a clean, soft cloth. Make sure you keep your treasures stowed away and separated in a cool, dry place, such as a jewelry box. This way necklaces will remain untangled and the diamond engagement ring won’t scratch any of the soft metals or gemstones. If you don’t have a jewelry box, wrap items individually in soft tissue or paper.
Now, there are some important exceptions to these general rules. Sterling silver should be kept in an anti-tarnish bag or cloth. Individual silk pouches are best for holding pearls, opals and emeralds because they help maintain the moisture of these gems and prevent them from cracking.
2. Easy Does It With Cleaning
Don’t be tempted to use vinegar or baking soda on your priceless valuables because those could only cause damage. All you need to spruce up your jewelry is mild dish soap, water and a soft brush. Clean the jewelry you wear often, such as your wedding band or engagement ring, about once a week.
At Diamond Center Jewelers, we offer top-tier cleaning and polishing services to get your valuables glimmering like new in no time.
3. Avoid Chemicals
When you’re getting ready, leave your jewelry in its box until you’ve finished with your make-up, perfume, hairspray and lotion. That’s because chemicals in these products can discolor metals like gold, silver, platinum and colored gems. So, wait until you’re done handling these products before putting your jewelry on.
4. Take Your Jewelry Off
There are places and activities that fine jewelry just does not mix well with. That includes things like swimming at the pool, going to the beach or gym, household chores, cooking and doing the dishes. All of these activities either expose your treasures to harsh chemicals or debris like sand and food. Plus, it’s all too easy to lose your valuables in those situations. You don’t want to drop your engagement ring down the sink, for instance.
5. Insure Your Jewelry
Although we don’t like to think about it, the unexpected does happen. You might be traveling and lose a valued piece or you might have something stolen. That’s why it’s vital to have your treasures insured. In the unhappy event that something does occur, make sure you have peace of mind knowing that your investment is protected.
The first step towards insuring your jewelry is usually getting an appraisal. A certified appraiser can determine the value of your piece or collection. At Diamond Center Jewelers, our experienced staff is uniquely qualified to carry out appraisals of your fine jewelry and gemstones. We have the background and training to professionally evaluate the current value of your precious keepsakes.
Find a New Gem at Diamond Center Jewelers
As you can see, caring for your fine jewelry is easy and can extend its life for years to come, helping it maintain much of its original luster. Remember, if you ever have any questions about caring for your priceless valuables, stop by and visit us at either our Fort Smith or Fayetteville locations. We’d be thrilled to assist you in any way. Plus, you can browse our extensive selections and add something new to your own collection. You never know what little treasures you might stumble across.
