A Comprehensive Guide
Summer is a busy season full of activities, from beach outings and poolside lounging to hiking adventures and garden parties. However, the same elements that make summer so delightful—sun, sand, saltwater, chlorine and perspiration—can wreak havoc on your jewelry. To keep your diamond huggie earrings, pendant necklaces and gemstone rings sparkling and in pristine condition, follow these comprehensive care tips tailored for the summertime.
Avoid Exposure to Chlorine and Saltwater
Chlorine in pools and saltwater at the beach can be particularly damaging to jewelry. Chlorine can cause metals like gold and platinum to weaken and pit over time, while saltwater can corrode alloys and dull the sparkle of gemstones.
Remove jewelry before swimming in pools or in the ocean. If you accidentally wear it in these environments, rinse it thoroughly with fresh water afterward and dry it completely with a soft cloth. Removal also ensures you won’t lose your precious jewelry in the water!
Beware of Sunscreen and Lotions
While sunscreen and lotions are essential for skin protection, they can leave residues on your jewelry, making it look dull and dirty. These products can also build up in the crevices of intricate designs, which can be difficult to clean.
Apply sunscreen and lotions before putting on your jewelry and allow them to absorb fully into your skin. Wipe down your pieces with a soft, lint-free cloth if they come into contact with these substances.
Handle Sweat with Care
Summer heat often leads to increased sweating, which can tarnish certain metals and cloud gemstones. Perspiration contains oils and salts that can affect the finish of your jewelry.
Regularly clean your jewelry to remove sweat residues. A simple solution of mild dish soap and warm water, used with a soft toothbrush, can help maintain the luster. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth. If you’re not sure what to use to clean your jewelry, ask a Graham Jewelers team member.
Protect from Excessive Sun Exposure
Extended exposure to direct sunlight can fade the colors of some gemstones and cause metals to discolor. Sunlight can particularly affect stones like amethyst, topaz and pearls, leading to a loss of vibrancy over time.
Store your jewelry in a cool, shaded place when not in use. When outdoors, try to wear pieces under clothing or in shaded areas to minimize direct sun exposure.
Store Properly When Not in Use
Summer activities often involve travel, and how you store your jewelry during these times is crucial. Improper storage can lead to scratching, tangling and other damage.
Use a travel jewelry case with individual compartments to keep pieces separated and secure. Soft pouches or cloth bags can also help prevent scratches. At home, keep your jewelry in a jewelry box lined with fabric to protect it from dust and damage.
Be Cautious with Physical Activities
Summer often means more physical activities like sports, gardening or outdoor adventures. Such activities can subject your jewelry to impacts, scratches and other forms of wear and tear.
Remove jewelry before engaging in any strenuous activities. If you’re participating in an activity where you can’t take off your jewelry, consider wearing durable pieces designed to withstand rough conditions, like silicone rings or stainless steel accessories.
Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
Regular cleaning is essential to keep your jewelry looking its best. Summer is a good time to establish or renew a routine for cleaning and inspecting your pieces for any signs of wear or damage. At Graham Jewelers, we recommend bringing your favorite jewelry pieces in for a cleaning by our expert team every six months.
Shine All Summer Long!
Summer style means wearing gorgeous jewelry like diamond huggie earrings, bangle bracelets, radiant yellow gold and more. It’s possible to look your best and take great care of your jewelry during the summer, to ensure it remains beautiful and lasts for years to come. By following these tips—avoiding harsh chemicals, storing properly, cleaning regularly and being mindful of activities—you can enjoy your summer adventures without compromising the integrity of your cherished pieces. Remember, a little extra attention now can prevent costly repairs or replacements in the future, allowing your jewelry to continue sparkling in the summer sun.
Related Article: Springing Into Style: Embracing the Latest Jewelry Trends
Summer is a busy season full of activities, from beach outings and poolside lounging to hiking adventures and garden parties. However, the same elements that make summer so delightful—sun, sand, saltwater, chlorine and perspiration—can wreak havoc on your jewelry. To keep your diamond huggie earrings, pendant necklaces and gemstone rings sparkling and in pristine condition, follow these comprehensive care tips tailored for the summertime.
Avoid Exposure to Chlorine and Saltwater
Chlorine in pools and saltwater at the beach can be particularly damaging to jewelry. Chlorine can cause metals like gold and platinum to weaken and pit over time, while saltwater can corrode alloys and dull the sparkle of gemstones.
Remove jewelry before swimming in pools or in the ocean. If you accidentally wear it in these environments, rinse it thoroughly with fresh water afterward and dry it completely with a soft cloth. Removal also ensures you won’t lose your precious jewelry in the water!
Beware of Sunscreen and Lotions
While sunscreen and lotions are essential for skin protection, they can leave residues on your jewelry, making it look dull and dirty. These products can also build up in the crevices of intricate designs, which can be difficult to clean.
Apply sunscreen and lotions before putting on your jewelry and allow them to absorb fully into your skin. Wipe down your pieces with a soft, lint-free cloth if they come into contact with these substances.
Handle Sweat with Care
Summer heat often leads to increased sweating, which can tarnish certain metals and cloud gemstones. Perspiration contains oils and salts that can affect the finish of your jewelry.
Regularly clean your jewelry to remove sweat residues. A simple solution of mild dish soap and warm water, used with a soft toothbrush, can help maintain the luster. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth. If you’re not sure what to use to clean your jewelry, ask a Graham Jewelers team member.
Protect from Excessive Sun Exposure
Extended exposure to direct sunlight can fade the colors of some gemstones and cause metals to discolor. Sunlight can particularly affect stones like amethyst, topaz and pearls, leading to a loss of vibrancy over time.
Store your jewelry in a cool, shaded place when not in use. When outdoors, try to wear pieces under clothing or in shaded areas to minimize direct sun exposure.
Store Properly When Not in Use
Summer activities often involve travel, and how you store your jewelry during these times is crucial. Improper storage can lead to scratching, tangling and other damage.
Use a travel jewelry case with individual compartments to keep pieces separated and secure. Soft pouches or cloth bags can also help prevent scratches. At home, keep your jewelry in a jewelry box lined with fabric to protect it from dust and damage.
Be Cautious with Physical Activities
Summer often means more physical activities like sports, gardening or outdoor adventures. Such activities can subject your jewelry to impacts, scratches and other forms of wear and tear.
Remove jewelry before engaging in any strenuous activities. If you’re participating in an activity where you can’t take off your jewelry, consider wearing durable pieces designed to withstand rough conditions, like silicone rings or stainless steel accessories.
Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
Regular cleaning is essential to keep your jewelry looking its best. Summer is a good time to establish or renew a routine for cleaning and inspecting your pieces for any signs of wear or damage. At Graham Jewelers, we recommend bringing your favorite jewelry pieces in for a cleaning by our expert team every six months.
Shine All Summer Long!
Summer style means wearing gorgeous jewelry like diamond huggie earrings, bangle bracelets, radiant yellow gold and more. It’s possible to look your best and take great care of your jewelry during the summer, to ensure it remains beautiful and lasts for years to come. By following these tips—avoiding harsh chemicals, storing properly, cleaning regularly and being mindful of activities—you can enjoy your summer adventures without compromising the integrity of your cherished pieces. Remember, a little extra attention now can prevent costly repairs or replacements in the future, allowing your jewelry to continue sparkling in the summer sun.
Related Article: Springing Into Style: Embracing the Latest Jewelry Trends