Most people think that if you wipe your jewelry occasionally after wearing it, it's enough. But the reality is a little more complicated. As a jeweler, I see what our daily lives do to metals and stones - and believe me, it's often not years, but months that are enough to damage it . That's why I decided to write an article that goes a little deeper than just "don't take your jewelry in the shower."
1. Seasonal care: Winter and summer take a toll on jewelry differently
In summer:
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Sweat and sea salt can significantly affect the surface of both gold and silver. Be especially careful with gold-plated jewelry - the gold layer may start to fade faster.
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Sunscreens and repellents cling to the details of the jewelry, creating a matte surface.
My advice: In the summer, wipe your jewelry lightly with a soft cloth after each wear and store it separately, ideally in a cloth bag.
In winter:
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Temperature changes (e.g., going from freezing to a heated interior) can cause microscopic stresses in metal or cracking in some natural stones (especially soft ones - turquoise, opal).
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Gloves often catch on delicate rings or earrings – this leads to stones becoming loose or bent.
My advice: Take off your rings before putting on gloves. In winter, don't expose your jewelry to sudden changes in temperature - let it "warm up".
2. Traveling with Jewelry: How to Prevent Loss and Damage
Traveling is the most common time when jewelry gets lost, scratched, or damaged . And paradoxically, even when it comes to jewelry that you don't take with you.
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Jewelry left at home without packaging can oxidize due to moisture or light.
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In an unprotected suitcase, chains get tangled and stones get scratched.
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Rings left by the sink in the hotel – a classic that ends in tears.
My advice:
Get a small travel jewelry organizer (there are pocket versions too).
If you're taking the bare minimum, choose a universal piece and leave the rest at home - in an airtight box with silica gel.
3. Jewelry and Lifestyle: What to Look Out for Depending on Who You Are
Sportswoman
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Sweat, impacts, tension in metals. The most common problem: bending of rings during dumbbell exercises, broken chains .
Take everything off before playing sports – not only for the sake of your jewelry, but also for safety.
Moms
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Babies love to grab and tear necklaces and earrings.
If you are wearing the jewelry with your child, consider stronger materials and smooth surfaces without sharp edges .
Creatives and artisans
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Paints, adhesives, abrasive particles.
When working with your hands, keep your hands free – even tiny particles can permanently damage the surface of delicate metals.
4. What jewelry really hates (and what benefits it)
Jewelry does not tolerate:
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Perfumes directly on the skin under the jewelry
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Cleaning teeth/face with rings on hand
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Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight (especially for stones like amethyst)
Jewelry loves:
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Dry, dark environment
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Regular wiping with a soft cloth
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Love and respect – not random treatment
Summary: Care is not complicated, it just requires mindfulness
Jewelry is the silent witness to our stories. And if we give it a little care, it will stay with us for many years – not just as an ornament, but as a memory, a talisman, an inheritance. I teach my clients to wear jewelry with joy, but also with respect. Conscious care is not complicated – it just requires attention.
