We love our jewelry, and we want it to last forever!
The pieces we love the most are often the ones we wear the most. These, and all of your jewelry, should be kept clean and checked regularly for any wear and tear. Moving parts such as clasps or hinges can wear out, connections that rub against each other can wear thin over years, and prongs can wear down over time.
We recommend a professional cleaning and check of your cherished pieces after about 6 months of wear. During inspection we will check for any loose stones or worn prongs, which can be more easily repaired if caught early!
How to Store Your Jewelry
However best fits your routine, jewelry should be stored in a safe place. Your safe place could be a jewelry box, in home safe, or even a plastic tackle box. The most important thing is that your storage method is safe for your jewelry! Avoid multiple pieces in the same compartment, as this can lead to scratched metal, kinked chains, and even chipped gemstones.
Jewelry should be the last thing you put on, and the first you take off. Hairspray and skin products can lead to discoloration, and household chores or cleaning chemicals can be very hard on gems and settings. We recommend your jewelry be the last accessory you put on when you get ready, and the first thing you put away when you return home (always in its safe place). This way, your jewelry will last longer without hard wear and tear from heavy housework. If you don't have storage designed for jewelry, don't worry! Divided plastic containers, small ziplock bags, or even the packaging from the jewelry store will work! The goal is to keep the pieces from bumping together or tangling, and any solution that works for you and accomplishes this goal is fine!
Caring For Silver Jewelry
Sterling silver, when not plated, requires different care due to its ability to tarnish. Chemical solutions are useful in removing tarnish from silver, but are not recommended for jewelry with pearls, treated gems, or porous gemstones like jade. When in doubt, act with caution. Liquid solutions can be applied to metal only with a q-tip, or a polishing cloth can be used on the metal. Always rinse after cleaning, and dry thoroughly to avoid re-tarnishing after you're finished! If you are unsure of how to clean your jewelry at home, we're here to help!