Jewelry mishaps exist year round. From falling down drainpipes to scuffing while cleaning the kitchen, there are opportunities for a scratched or lost ring at every turn. Below are a few tips and tricks to keeping the hazards at a minimum.
- REMOVE ANY JEWELRY from the body before swimming/strenuous activities, applying sunscreen, gardening, in direct sunlight and in cold water. Salt water, chlorine and sweat can all damage the outer layer of your jewelry. Lotions, such as sunscreen and bug repellents, may get into the crevices of chains and prongs, creating a film over your jewelry, making it appear dull and dingy. Dirt and small rocks, as well as some gardening gloves, are abrasive and can bring permanent damage to your jewelry piece. The intensity of direct sunlight may bleach certain materials, especially the natural elements and plastics in your jewelry. Cool water temperatures simply cause your fingers/hands to shrink, creating room for your rings and bracelet to slip off. Most of us don’t notice they’re missing until it’s too late.
- CLEAN YOUR JEWELRY REGULARLY. Your own sweat and body oils can dull the shine of your jewelry. The safest cleaning methods are also the easiest. Give your jewelry a quick wipe down after wearing it each day, and even mix some baking soda and water to clean deeper once a week. Of course, when the grime has really built up on your favorite piece and baking soda doesn’t quite pass the test, bring it in to our store and we can help restore its original shine.
- STORE YOUR JEWELRY IN A CLEAN, DRY PLACE. Keep your pieces in a fabric-lined case, or in a box with dividers to prevent different jewelry pieces from scratching each other.
- VISIT A TRUSTED JEWELER REGULARLY. It’s not uncommon for gem stones to become unsecured and even lost forever. Regular checkups for loose stones, prongs and clasps will give you piece-of-mind knowing that your favorite pieces have lots of life to give.
Here at Heart to Heart Fine Jewelry, we take pride in our work and in the satisfaction of our customers. Don’t hesitate to call us for any of your jewelry needs.
Aloha,
The Heart2Heart Fine Jewelry Ohana