⛱️ Summer is here and keeping your jewelry safe during the warm months brings a host of unique challenges. In honor of bracelets lost in the sand, gemstones fallen victim to a wicked game of beach volleyball, or rings resting on the bottom of the lake, here are 11 Jewelry Safety Tips to avoid damage to (or loss of) your jewelry.
WHEN TO REMOVE YOUR JEWELRY
- Before swimming and strenuous activities. Salt water and chlorine can damage your jewelry. Add sweat to that list when it comes to sterling silver.
- Before applying sunscreen and bug spray. Lotion can get into the crevices of chains and prongs. Also, lotions and sprays create a film on your jewelry, making it dull and dingy.
- In direct sunlight. The sun can bleach certain materials, especially natural elements and some plastics.
- In cold water. Cool temperatures cause your fingers to ‘shrink’, creating room for your ring to slip off. And when in water, you may not even notice until it’s too late!
- Before going into a hot tub or swimming pool. Chlorine can damage and discolor metals (like gold and platinum) and can slowly erode the finish and polish of gemstones.
- Before playing in the sand (or gardening). Dirt and small rocks are abrasive. If not cleaned right away, your jewelry can be permanently damaged. Beware the dangers of gardening gloves, too. The fabric inside can snag on prongs and pull them out of place.
HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR JEWELRY
- Clean your jewelry regularly. Your own sweat and body oils can dull the shine of your jewelry. You can clean your jewelry at home with warm, soapy water and a soft toothbrush. Or stop in and pick up a jar of jewelry cleaner.
- Store your jewelry in a clean, dry place. Keep your pieces in a fabric-lined jewelry case or in a box with compartments and dividers to prevent pieces from scratching each other. Invest in a safe place to store your jewelry on-the-go too.
- Watch for warning signs if vulnerabilities in your jewelry. From symptoms of a loose stone to bracelet, necklace and earring red flags, there are six major signals that your jewelry is at risk to break.
- Visit Stambaugh Jewelers to check for loose gemstones, prongs and clasps. It’s easy to lose a piece of jewelry or individual stones if you’re not giving your jewelry regular check-ups. We will deep clean your pieces for a brilliant shine too!
- Get your favorite jewelry insured. You’ll have the peace of mind that regardless of your surf and turf adventures, your jewelry is protected. If you need help with insurance appraisal documentation, let us know. Learn more about our jewelry appraisal services.
