With summer visiting, she brings laughter and joy to all. Often times we create memories on vacation with a piece of jewelry. Whenever you look at that ring you got at the boardwalk or the pair of earrings from Spain you think of that special moment.
Memories last forever but jewelry does not (unfortunately), so there are a few things you can do to help enjoy your valuables the longest.
If you plan on spending hours by the pool or taking a trip to the beach, keep your sparkles safe at home or in a little travel case so you can put them on after all the exposure to chlorine, moisture and fun daily activities.
There are many things that can happen in a short period of time in the water.
For example:
· Chemical damage - the chlorine in pools and hot tubs can discolor precious metals (gold, platinum, and sterling silver) as well as cause pitting and cracking in the metal. It’s a good habit to avoid salt water as well, which leads into the next point;
· Cool temperatures tend to shrink our fingers; that's why when hot weather comes around our rings feel tighter. The last thing you want to happen is to gift your engagement ring to the ocean.
· Sweat builds up. It’s not ‘damaging’ however certain metals do have a reaction to our body oils/sweat thus leaving a green mark where the piece was resting.
On dry land, things can happen too;
· Gardening can cause scratching to the metal and stones in your jewelry due to the rocks in the dirt. While gardening gloves can help protect they and actually gloves, in general, can get caught on prongs.
· It’s also a good idea to take your jewelry off when exercising so you don’t run into the sweat problem and worry about hitting your rings or getting them caught on something and/or squishing them against other metal (weights) that you may be lifting. Ouch!
· There are chemicals in cleaning products that can damage jewelry too! Too often we have to surprise customers with a remount option when the metal alloys have been consumed by bleach or cleaning products.
Overall a good rule of thumb is to take your jewelry off if it’s going to involve moisture, chemicals, or labor intensive work. Try to follow these “rules” to keep your beloved jewels in good shape, and most importantly, have your jewelry professionally cleaned and checked at least every 6 months to stay ahead of any maintenance or repairs from “normal” wear.