Fine jewelry is an investment — and like any valuable investment, it rewards those who take good care of it. With the right habits, your rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings will look as beautiful decades from now as they do today.
Here are our expert tips from the team at Edward Jewels & Watches.
Clean Your Jewelry Regularly
Dirt, oils, and residue from lotions and cosmetics can dull the brilliance of your stones and metals over time. A regular cleaning routine makes a big difference.
For most jewelry, a gentle clean at home is simple:
- Mild soap + warm water — Mix a drop of dish soap in a bowl of warm water. Gently scrub with a soft-bristle toothbrush. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth.
- Avoid harsh chemicals — Bleach, acetone, and chlorine can damage metal and stones. Always remove jewelry before cleaning with household products.
- Ultrasonic cleaners — These work well for diamonds and hard stones but can damage softer stones like opals, emeralds, and pearls. When in doubt, ask us.
Store It the Right Way
How you store your jewelry matters as much as how you wear it.
- Keep pieces separate — Diamonds can scratch other stones and metals. Store each piece in its own pouch or compartment.
- Use a jewelry box with a soft lining — A fabric-lined box protects your pieces from scratching and humidity.
- Avoid humidity — Moisture can tarnish silver and damage certain stones. Keep your jewelry in a cool, dry place.
- Don’t leave it in the bathroom — Steam from showers accelerates tarnishing. Keep your jewelry in your bedroom instead.
Know When to Take It Off
Some activities are hard on jewelry. Make it a habit to remove your pieces before:
- Swimming in pools or the ocean (chlorine and saltwater are damaging)
- Working out at the gym
- Gardening or any activity involving dirt or rocks
- Applying lotion, perfume, or hairspray
A simple rule: jewelry goes on last, comes off first.
Watch for Wear and Tear
Even with perfect care, jewelry can wear over time. Prongs holding stones can loosen, clasps can weaken, and chains can develop weak links.
Signs your jewelry needs attention:
- A stone feels loose or wiggles when touched
- A clasp doesn’t close securely
- The finish looks scratched or dull and won’t polish out
- A chain has a visible thin or bent link
If you notice any of these, bring your piece in. Catching problems early prevents loss.
Get a Professional Cleaning Once a Year
Even with regular home care, a professional cleaning and inspection by a jeweler makes a real difference. We’ll clean your pieces with professional equipment, check prongs and settings, and spot any issues before they become bigger problems.
At Edward Jewels & Watches, we offer professional cleaning and inspection services for your fine jewelry. Stop by our Willis showroom any time — no appointment needed.
Have questions about caring for a specific piece? Give us a call at 936-DIAMOND or come see us at 12709 Interstate 45 N, Suite 200, Willis, TX 77318.