The arrival of summer encourages us to step outdoors and bask in the warm glow of the sun. It’s the ideal season to renew connections with loved ones, or to rejuvenate oneself with a much-needed vacation. However, the sunny season isn’t as welcoming for your precious ornaments.
Regrettably, the thrills and escapades that accompany summer can subject your jewelry to damaging conditions, exposing them to harsh elements and risks. Factors such as sun cream, sandy beaches, and notably, swimming pool water can all compromise the longevity and cleanliness of your jewelry pieces. Traveling, too, presents certain hazards for your prized accessories. Thankfully, there are straightforward measures you can adopt to guard your jewelry during these sunny months. This article offers practical advice on preserving the shine and condition of your jewelry during summer.
The Threats to Your Jewelry in Summer
Jewelry is susceptible to damage from various summer hazards. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can discolor certain gemstones, while water, especially saltwater and chlorinated pool water, can cause tarnishing or other damage. Moreover, sand can scratch surfaces, and perspiration can lead to discoloration, particularly with costume jewelry.
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General Tips for Protecting Your Jewelry
Proper storage is crucial when your jewelry is not in use. Keep your pieces in a cool, dry place, ideally in a lined jewelry box with separate compartments to prevent scratching. Regular cleaning is also important. Use mild soap, water, and a soft brush, but ensure to check cleaning instructions as some materials require special care.
Specific Tips for Different Types of Jewelry
Precious gemstone jewelry, particularly pieces with porous stones like pearls or opals, should be kept away from direct sunlight and never worn in the water. For gold and silver pieces, avoid contact with chlorine, apply sunscreen before wearing your jewelry, and clean them regularly. Costume jewelry, often more susceptible to damage, should be kept dry and cleaned with a soft cloth.
Protecting Jewelry While Travelling
To begin with, contemplate the necessity of taking valuable jewelry on your travels. Trips inherently involve the possibility of items being misplaced or lost. When coordinating your travel outfits, aim to select jewelry that complements most, if not all, of your clothing. The fewer jewelry pieces you take along, the lower the risk of undesirable events.
If you choose to take all your jewelry with you, steer clear of the urge to stuff all your items into a single bag. Ward off potential damage by packing each piece separately. Certain stones and materials are notably more robust than others. Stowing them collectively could lead harder gemstones, such as diamonds, to graze softer ones like gold, pearls, or opals.
Insurance and Professional Maintenance
Insuring your valuable jewelry provides peace of mind. Regular check-ups with a professional jeweler can also help identify and fix issues before they become significant problems. They can also provide deep cleaning services to maintain your jewelry’s sparkle.
Protecting your jewelry in the summer takes some effort, but it’s worth it to maintain the beauty and value of your pieces. With these tips, you can enjoy your summer and keep your jewelry sparkling throughout the season and beyond.
I am a dedicated professional with over 20 years of experience in the field of jewelry repair and restoration. Born and raised in California, I found my passion for the intricacies of jewelry design at a young age when I had the chance to observe a local craftsman at work. Throughout my career, I have specialized in restoring vintage and antique jewelry pieces, bringing them back to their former glory while maintaining their historical integrity. I regularly contribute articles and opinion pieces to a variety of jewelry-focused websites and magazines, sharing my insights and knowledge about jewelry repair techniques, trends, and the cultural significance of various jewelry pieces.