1- Avoid swimming in the ocean, lakes, pools and hot tubs with your jewelry on and reduce the risk of loss greatly.
2- Hot tubs and pool chlorine are notorious for eating away at and pitting white gold metal.
3- Sunscreen and moisturizer will not only attract dirt and make your dazzling diamonds and color stone gems look dull and lifeless but they also make it easier to come off your fingers and it’ll be too late by the time you realize it.
4- A great way to reduce risk of damage to rings in particular is to remove them when at home and keep in a specific little container and location, whether in the bedroom or some other safe place even in the kitchen and when you leave the house put them on and enjoy wearing them. Cleaning dishes, doing laundry, house chores and gardening just opens the door for something unfortunate to happen like an impact or even losing it down a sink drain or in the garden.
Just being a little more aware of your jewelry and care will increase the chances of longevity and enjoyment more than you realize. Once it’s gone it’s usually gone for good and heirloom sentimental pieces are not replaceable.
For at home cleanings we recommend a warm solution of Dawn soapy water and using a soft bristle tooth brush and rinse well. If you have an ultrasonic or even a steamer use them carefully so as not to loosen gems or harm heat sensitive stones especially pearls and opals which should avoid ultrasonic cleaners and harsh chemicals.
Regular checkups with your jeweler to check and tighten loose stones and professional cleanings will keep that heirloom piece in great condition for many decades and beyond.
