If you want your jewelry items to last for as long as possible, you must know how to treat them right. And to do that, you need to learn about the common jewelry mistakes that many people make, as well as how to avoid them.
1. Not bringing your pieces back to the jeweler
Just like any other valuable item, proper maintenance is the best way to make jewelry last. Hence, whenever you buy a new piece, don’t forget to take it back to the jeweler for regular check-ups. Most jewelers will inspect your piece and give it a professional cleaning for free, so make it a point to take your jewelry for a tune-up at least once a year. If you use the piece frequently, take it to the jeweler at least every six months.
2. Wearing jewelry in inappropriate settings
If you are going to be in a situation where the safety of your jewelry will be compromised, don’t wear it. Looking good in the ocean or in the hot tub with your diamond earrings on is not worth damaging them, or worse, losing them. Hence, don’t wear your jewelry to the beach, the pool, the hot tub, and in direct sunlight. Moreover, don’t wear them when doing anything that involves strenuous activity.
3. Not cleaning your jewelry
While it’s vital for the health of your pieces to get a professional cleaning, you shouldn’t forget to do some maintenance yourself. Clean your rings, watches, necklaces, and bracelets with a microfiber cloth every once in a while. If they get caked with dirt or product, clean them immediately to prevent the contaminant from setting in.
4. Cleaning with inappropriate things
Some items are recommended for cleaning some types of stones or metal, but they may not be good for others. Hence, research the best way to clean your jewelry before trying any material or solution.
5. Showering with jewelry
Taking a shower with your jewelry on once in a while will not damage it immediately. However, exposing your pieces to hard water and soap frequently will make it harder to clean out scum from the tiny crevices.
6. Not storing pieces properly
Invest in a high-quality jewelry box that is lined with soft fabric to help avoid abrasion and compartments that will keep jewelry from scratching against each other. If you have pieces that are worth considerably large amounts, consider buying a safe to keep them from being stolen.
7. Not insuring jewelry
Not getting insurance for your expensive pieces is one of the biggest mistakes you can make. You never know what can happen to your jewelry. So, don’t take the risk and get insurance not only for your finances but also for your peace of mind.
8. Touching your jewelry all the time
Touching your jewelry frequently will transfer oils, dirt, dust, and other nasty stuff from your hands to your pieces. Get rid of this habit to keep your jewelry looking its best and make them easier to clean.
When you take care of things, they will last for many years. This is especially true for jewelry. To protect your precious pieces from premature damage and wear, avoid making the mistakes highlighted above.
