Caring for Fine Jewelry

Most women will agree that jewelry can be what makes or breaks an outfit. If you have been lucky enough to receive some new jewelry recently, you will need to know how to take care of it to keep it looking its best. The type of fine jewelry will determine the type of care and maintenance that you need to perform.

Gemstones are always a popular gift. Who does not want to own something that features their birthstone? If you get a piece that contains a gemstone, there are certain things you should do in order to care for it properly. Gemstones should not be subjected to sudden temperature changes and should not be worn while doing housework. Remember, these gemstones are much weaker than diamonds and should be taken care of accordingly.

Gold jewelry need to be taken care of carefully as well. You should store your gold in a dry place that is clean. You should also keep your pieces separated in fabric bags. Do not use plastic baggies as they will sweat. In keeping your pieces separate, you will ensure that they do not scratch one another. Do not subject your gold to soap as it can leave a film on your jewelry that will leave your gold looking dull. Chlorine can also cause damage to your fine jewelry so you might want to remove them before that dip in the pool.

Cultured pearls can be beautiful and elegant. How can you take care of your pearls? Any makeup or hair mousse, spray or gel should be applied before you dawn your pearls as the soft surface of your pearls can be easily damaged. This goes for storage as well. Pearls need to be stored in a fabric lined box or small fabric pouch as the surface of the pearl can get easily damaged. Perspiration, skin oils and other things can damage the string on your string of pearls, so it is best to take them to a jeweler once a year to get them re-strung.

Don't forget to take care of any fine jewelry watches. If you are fortunate to have a gold watch with diamonds, you will need to take special care of it. Keep it away from the water unless clearly stated that it's water resistant, replace the crystal if it is scratched or chipped. Even a tiny bit of dirt and moisture can leech through these areas. Oils can build up from your skin, so be sure to have your watch cleaned and the battery changed by a professional.

Fine jewelry is wonderful to own. A few more ideas that you might want to consider in regards to keeping your jewelry looking clean and new are:

-Make friends with a trusted jeweler. It can help out when you wish to bring in pieces to be cleaned or fixed.

-You should never wear any fine jewelry when doing work that will require you digging in the garden, using bleach or other harsh chemicals, or work where your jewelry will get knocked around (this is especially true for rings or bracelets.)

-Hairspray and other harsh chemicals such as nail polish remover will cause damage to your fine jewelry

-You will need to be careful when and where you take off your jewelry because of the size, it can easily fall down into the sink or get lost and you will want to ensure that you will have these pieces forever to enjoy.

Monthly cleanings with a fine jewelry cleaner and proper storage for your fine jewelry is a must. Using common sense will ensure that your jewelry will last for years to come.