Fine jewelry is made to be worn, but daily life can leave behind oils, lotions, dust, and small bumps that affect sparkle and security. A simple care routine helps your jewelry stay beautiful for years.
Use this guide for everyday cleaning, storage, travel, and maintenance habits.
Daily Wear Habits
Small habits make a big difference. Remove rings before activities that can expose them to pressure, chemicals, or rough surfaces.
- Take jewelry off before heavy lifting, gardening, or workouts.
- Avoid wearing fine jewelry in pools, hot tubs, or harsh cleaning products.
- Apply lotion, perfume, and hair products before putting jewelry on.
At-Home Cleaning
For many diamond and gold pieces, gentle cleaning at home can restore sparkle. Use warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft brush. Rinse carefully and dry with a lint-free cloth.
- Use mild soap, not abrasive cleaners.
- Brush gently around prongs and under the stone.
- Close the drain or use a bowl when rinsing.
What To Avoid
Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive powders, and rough cloths. Some gemstones and treated stones require special care, so ask before using ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaning.
- Do not use bleach or chlorine-based cleaners.
- Avoid toothpaste, baking soda scrubs, and hard-bristle brushes.
- Do not assume every gemstone can be cleaned the same way as a diamond.
Professional Checkups
Even when a ring looks fine, prongs can loosen over time. Professional inspections help protect center stones, side stones, and delicate details.
- Schedule regular inspections for engagement rings and daily-wear pieces.
- Have loose stones checked immediately.
- Refresh polishing or rhodium plating when the piece needs it.
Storage
Store jewelry separately so pieces do not scratch each other. Diamonds are very hard and can scratch other jewelry, including other diamonds, when stored loosely together.
- Use individual pouches, boxes, or divided trays.
- Keep chains clasped to reduce tangling.
- Store pieces in a dry place away from harsh humidity.
Travel Tips
When traveling, choose a compact jewelry case and bring only what you plan to wear. If a piece is valuable or sentimental, keep it with you rather than in checked luggage.
- Use a travel case with separate compartments.
- Photograph important pieces before travel.
- Review insurance coverage for valuable jewelry.
A little care goes a long way. Clean gently, store thoughtfully, and inspect regularly to keep your jewelry ready for every meaningful moment.