Jewelry lasts longer when it is kept clean, kept dry and kept apart. A few habits cover almost everything.
Everyday care
- Put jewelry on last, after lotion, perfume, sunscreen and hairspray have dried.
- Take it off before swimming, showering, cleaning or working out. Chlorine and household cleaners attack silver and can loosen stones.
- Take rings off before anything that grips or knocks your hands, such as lifting weights or gardening.
Cleaning
Warm water, a drop of mild washing-up liquid and a soft brush will clean most pieces. Rinse well and dry with a soft cloth. A silver polishing cloth brings back the shine on sterling silver.
Do not use an ultrasonic cleaner, toothpaste or abrasive powders on pearls, turquoise, mother of pearl, enamel or any glued setting. Wipe those with a damp cloth only.
Storing
Keep pieces separate so they cannot rub against each other, in a soft pouch or a lined box. Silver keeps its color longest in a closed container away from damp air. Chains stay untangled if they are fastened before storing.
Safety
- Small charms, beads and earring backs are a choking hazard. Keep them away from small children.
- Check clasps, jump rings and stone settings from time to time, especially on a bracelet that is worn daily.
- If your skin reacts to a piece, stop wearing it. Reactions are usually to an alloy rather than to the silver or gold itself.