Fine
jewelry is a precious possession that is designed and crafted to last
a lifetime. However, proper care is required to assure the lasting
qualities of your jewelry. Jewelers of America (JA) is pleased to
offer the following simple guidelines and tips for the care and cleaning
of your fine jewelry.
GENERAL TIPS
Store
your jewelry in a clean, dry place.
Keep
your jewelry in a fabric-lined jewelry case, or in a box with
compartments and dividers. If you prefer to use ordinary boxes,
wrap each piece individually in soft tissue paper.
Don't
jumble your jewelry pieces in a drawer or jewelry case. Pieces
can scratch each other.
Be
careful when removing your jewelry to wash your hands. Do not
leave your jewelry on the rim of a sink where it can easily slip
down the drain.
See
your jeweler at least once a year to have your jewelry checked
for loose prongs, worn mountings, and general wear and tear. Visit
your jeweler every six months to have your jewelry professionally
cleaned.
There
are many types of small machines on the market that will clean
jewelry in a matter of minutes using high-frequency sound. These
machines are called "ultrasonic cleaners" and are available
in many different models and prices. They can be a convenient
way to quickly clean your jewelry at home. However, ultrasonic
cleaners can damage some jewelry. We can tell you if an ultrasonic
cleaning machine is right for your jewelry wardrobe and, if it
is, recommend an appropriate model.
