Your jewelry is meant to last a lifetime, whether it’s a dazzling gemstone ring, a cherished pair of stud earrings, or a trendy necklace that completes your favorite outfit. But everyday exposure to certain elements can dull, tarnish, or even damage these precious pieces. From household cleaners to tending to your garden, here are 5 things your jewelry should steer clear of to maintain its sparkle and longevity.
Chlorinated Water
Chlorine is another major enemy of jewelry, especially for metals like gold and sterling silver. Pools, hot tubs, and even some tap water contain chlorine, which can corrode and discolor jewelry over time. Chlorine exposure can cause fine jewelry to become brittle, making stones more prone to falling out. Always remember to remove rings, bracelets, and necklaces before going into a pool or a hot tub.
Cleaning Chemicals
Always remove your jewelry before cleaning and use gloves to avoid exposing your jewelry to these cleaning chemicals. Household cleaners, bleach, ammonia, and other harsh chemicals are some of the most damaging substances for jewelry. These chemicals can weaken metals, cause discoloration, and even alter gemstones. For example: bleach can corrode gold and weaken prongs, while ammonia can cause clouding in certain gems.
Paint and DIY Materials
During any home improvement project, it’s best to leave your jewelry safely stored away. Paint, adhesives, and other DIY materials can cause stains or damage your jewelry’s surface. Fine jewelry can also suffer from accidental bumps and scratches while working. If you’re painting, sanding, or doing any other hands-on work, consider wearing gloves or leaving your jewelry off altogether.
Gardening
Dirt and tiny pebbles are abrasive to your jewelry, which is why you should never wear them while gardening. Leaves, grass, and twigs can cause gunk to build up in hard-to-reach areas like between the prong settings or underneath a ring’s center stone. If not cleaned immediately, your jewelry can be permanently damaged. Beware of the dangers of wearing jewelry while using gardening gloves as well. You wouldn’t want your ring to snag under the gardening gloves.
Cooking
Wearing jewelry while cooking may seem harmless, but it can pose several risks both to your jewelry and to the safety and quality of your food. For instance, your rings may slip from your fingers while cooking or washing the dishes. Cooking involves exposure to various substances and environments that can damage your jewelry. Heat, steam, and food ingredients can all negatively impact the integrity and appearance of your pieces. To avoid these risks, it's best to remove your jewelry before cooking.
Protecting your jewelry from these common threats is essential for maintaining its beauty and integrity. By taking a few precautionary measures, such as storing items separately and avoiding exposure to harsh chemicals, you can ensure that your cherished pieces remain as stunning as the day you first wore them. Remember, a little care goes a long way in preserving the brilliance of your jewelry.
