Over the years, I have repaired every kind of jewelry there is. And it was brought to me in every possible condition. In doing so, it has taught me a lot about how to properly maintain my precious, not so easy to replace, baubles. I am now passing on a practical list of do’s and don’ts for you read, and implement. If properly maintained and checked, your jewelery will last for generations to come.

DO’S:

Do get your jewelry regularly checked by a jeweler. Every 6 months to a year.

Do take off your rings every month and clean them, if not by a jeweler, then yourself. A solution of hot water, Windex, and a couple drops of dish soap, works wonders. Soak for 5 to 10 minutes, ( no longer ) then brush with an old soft toothbrush. Rinse thoroughly in warm water, and dry with a soft cloth.

Do a self check on your jewelry pieces often. Look at the prongs holding the stones in your rings. Check for any that have worn off, bent or or broken off. Look at the bottom of your rings. Check to make sure they are not thin or bent. Look at the clasps and rings holding your chains, bracelets, and anklets together. Check to see that they are thick and sturdy, and in good working condition. Look at your earring backs. Check to make sure they are straight and not thinned out. Make sure the bails and rings holding your charms and pendants are thick enough to keep wearing on your chain.

Do store your jewelry properly when you are not wearing it. Hang chains and bracelets, so they do not become kinked or tangled. Seperate rings and other pieces so they do not scratch each other.

DON’TS:

Do not use tooth paste to clean your jewelry, no matter who told you. The floride in it will wear down and scratch the metal.

Do not wear your rings to garden in. The dirt will wear down and scratch the metal.

Do not wear rings while housecleaning. If you must, make sure you protect them by wearing gloves that cover them. Many cleaning agents have harsh chemicals that can break down the structure of precious metals which can lead to breakage, and or leave a dark tarnish on them. Chlorine is especially harmful to gold and silver, so try to take off your jewelry before entering swimming pools or jacuzzi’s. Perfumes, lotions, hair products ect… also have chemicals that can leave a dark tarnish on precious metals.

Do not lick your rings to get them off of your fingers. Besides being completely disgusting, it is a health hazard. Just like the underside of you fingernails, rings can trap harmful bacteria that should not be ingested.