How to care for jewelry

You've done your research, comparison-shopped, selected supreme quality jewelry and now proudly own and wear it. But your work isn't done. In fact, it's just beginning. Proper care and maintenance of fine jewelry will extend its life and luster. Jewelry owners need to take special care to ensure that they're treating their property correctly. Be sure to follow these steps and processes to keep your jewelry shiny as the day you received it.

Routine care

Jewelry needs to be cleaned, just like furniture or clothing. Cleaning your jewelry properly will keep it free from tarnish or stains, and will ensure that it stays shiny. While there are many household remedies suggested for jewelry cleaning, most experts strongly recommend purchasing a professional cleaner from a jeweler. That's because these cleaners contain chemicals that are safe for gold, platinum and gemstones, and can protect their luster. It's important to clean your jewelry because common items such as lotion, makeup or hair products can slowly damage and stain your jewels.

Many consumer choose to use household products rather than professional jewelry cleaner. But many of these household suggestions can damage jewelry: For example, toothpaste is often recommended for cleaning jewelry. But toothpaste contains abrasives such as baking soda, and can scratch and potentially damage your jewelry. For occasional cleaning, these household products or ideas are OK:

• Use warm water and a small amount of dish soap. Soak your jewelry for a half hour.
• Create a solution of 50 percent ammonia, 50 percent water. Soak your jewelry for no more than 30 minutes, occasionally swishing the solution with your fingers. Remove and dry on a towel.

Long-term care

Most experts recommend bringing your jewelry to a jeweler at least once a year for professional cleaning and maintenance. A jeweler can find a setting that is loose and make repairs, or catch another defect that needs attention. This can save your jewelry from serious damage, or lost stones. Your jeweler knows how to take proper care of your valuables and can help ensure their lasting value and condition.

Daily use

Jewelry owners need to strike the right balance: It's fun to wear jewelry every day, and it's also important to get the use of your investment. But you should only wear your jewelry when it's appropriate. Don't wear your valuable jewelry when you're working out - you could damage or lose it. Similarly, wearing your jewels while swimming could cause damage from chlorine or other chemicals. Be sure to take proper care of your belongings and remove them when unnecessary.

Storage

Invest in a jewelry box, not only because it's fun to have a beautiful place to store your jewelry but also because a jewelry box protects your investment. If you toss your jewels into a dish or a container, you risk the chance of scratching or ruining your precious valuables. Jewelry boxes contain soft, padded compartments that keep your belongings safe. Remember that diamonds and some other gemstones can scratch other items, so take care when storing your jewelry.