Preserving Your Jewelry
To keep jewelry looking its absolute best, there are a few simple guidelines you should follow concerning the cleaning, storing, and preserving of valuables.
Cleaning Jewelry
One of the most important methods of preserving valuables it to keep them clean. It’s a good idea to give rings, bracelets, and other jewelry a gentle but thorough wiping with a very soft, slightly damp cloth before you store it. This will ensure that the jewelry is free from oils, perfume and grime that can tarnish the pieces over time. If the jewelry needs deep cleaning, most pieces are safe with warm sudsy water—using very mild liquid detergent. Scrub gently with a toothbrush designed for a baby’s teeth, rinse well and wipe dry with a soft cloth. If you have any questions about exposing valuables, particularly gemstones, to cleaning, consult a jeweler.
Storing your Jewelry
Cool, dry, uncluttered conditions are best for storing jewelry. Store pieces wrapped in felt or soft cloth or in individualized compartments lined with felt or cloth; jewelry pieces should never crash or bump into each other while in storage as this might cause chipping or scratching.
Protecting and Preserving Jewelry
Avoid propping valuables beside the sink where an accidental bump might send an irreplaceable ring down the drain or into the disposal. Also, remove jewelry before applying any lotions, perfumes, or hairsprays as these create undesirable build up on the surface. Remember to remove jewelry before doing housework or participating in any other form of activity where valuables might be subjected to hard impact. Never leave jewelry in a hotel room while you are away; and always carry valuables with you onto an airplane, not inside checked baggage.
About Watches
Regularly check the band on your watch to ensure that the timepiece itself remains securely attached to the band. Unless the watch is a high-quality waterproof design, you should never wear it while in the shower or during any other activity where it might get wet. Replace dead batteries promptly to avoid corrosion. Consult a watchmaker or jeweler if you have any questions about repair.
Concerning favorite jewelry pieces, a little bit of loving care goes a long way toward preserving them. With these simple tips jewelry will maintain its appearance and usefulness for many years to come. |
