Important Jewelry Tips
To maintain and preserve your Pieces
Keep Away from Water
While you would think that showering with a gold necklace is fine, it is just good common practice to take off ALL jewelry when getting in water (except small earrings).
Remove your Jewelry Regularly
Most damage is done while sleeping and exercising with pieces on. Not to mention, when it comes to neckwear you sweat on it, add perfume, hairspray, lotion etc.
Do not Wear Rings while Cooking
Believe it or not, even cooking is a bad practice for wearing rings. Not to sound gross, but you won’t believe the build up that can occur under or inside a band (unless it is simple wedding band). In addition, it dirties your stones and makes them appear dull and not as sparkly.
Store out of Direct Sunlight
Keep your pieces in a dark space and not loose on window sills. For one reason, they can easily be lost, or worse the very powerful sun light can actually damage you stones.
Professionally Clean your Pieces
Consider going to a local store (jeweler) that usual does it complimentary. The main reason is that common products may have abrasive materials in it that can scratch your metal or stones! Chemicals can also damage your stones if they are poureous or have surface reaching fractures (cracks) e.g. Opal, Emerald, Sapphire/Ruby.
Cleaning at Home
Use a polishing cloth that can easily clean silver, gold and stones. The polishing cloth will make your metal appear cleaner and shinny. For your stones, a soft old toothbrush and water, don’t even bother with soap, the brush will clear away "build-up". Never use tooth paste, it is an abrasive material and can severely damage your jewelry.