How to Make Your Fine Jewellery Last a Lifetime (or Longer!)

Fine jewellery is meant to be cherished, admired, and, most importantly, worn. But did you know that certain habits can shorten the lifespan of your beloved pieces? Don’t worry, we’re all guilty of a few of these slip-ups. Here’s a handy guide to help you care for your jewellery and keep it looking its best for years to come.

1. Never Removing Your Jewellery

We get it—when you’ve got a favourite piece, you are going to want to wear it 24/7. However, constant wear can subject your jewellery to unnecessary stress and damage. This is especially true for fine jewellery you wear on your hands, like rings & bracelets. Be sure to take your pieces off when engaging in activities that might harm it. For the longevity of your pieces, remember this: fine jewellery should be the first thing you take off, and the last thing you put on. 

2. Wearing It at the Gym

Heavy weights and gym equipment don’t mix well with fine jewellery. Rings are especially prone to bending or scratching when lifting weights, and bracelets or necklaces can easily snag on equipment. It’s best to store your pieces safely before hitting the gym. We recommend choosing a designated safe place at home to store your jewellery while not in use. This way, you won't accidentally lose or misplace it. 

3. Never Cleaning Your Jewellery

Daily wear exposes your jewellery to dirt, grime, lotions, and oils that will accumulate over time. This build-up not only dulls your gemstones shine, but can also loosen them their settings. A regular cleaning routine using a soft brush and gentle cleanser can work wonders in maintaining sparkle and security. 

4. Delaying Repairs

A lifted prong or a slightly loose stone might seem minor, but postponing repairs can lead to bigger (and more expensive) issues later on. Tightening a prong now could save you from losing a precious gemstone! When you notice damage, it is best to act quickly and avoid wearing the piece until you can bring it in to a jeweller.

5. Gardening in Your Jewellery

Whether you’re pruning roses or pulling weeds, your jewellery can easily get scratched, bent, or caked with dirt during gardening tasks. Always remove your rings and bracelets before heading into the garden to avoid unnecessary wear and tear. 

6. Rummaging Through Bags, Laundry, or Drawers

Ever gone digging through your handbag or a pile of clothes with your rings on?  While these activities can seem benign, they can actually put pressure on your rings and prongs can easily snag and become lifted. Be mindful of your hands while doing these tasks. 

7. Washing the Dishes

Heavy pots, pans & plates can all take a toll on your rings. Think about it this way, your dishes are made to be extremely durable and scratch resistant, which means they will often be harder than the materials they come into contact with (especially your delicate fine jewellery!) Plus, rings can easily slip off in soapy water! Protect your pieces by removing them before doing the dishes.

8. Cleaning with Chemicals

Common household cleaners (e.g. bleach, ammonia-based cleaners) often contain harsh chemicals that can corrode or tarnish metals and damage gemstones. If you’re about to tackle a deep clean, it is best to leave your jewellery in a safe place first. 

9. Pools and Hot Tubs

Chlorine can seriously damage fine jewellery. While pure gold itself does not react with chlorine, most fine jewellery pieces are alloyed with different metals to increase strength. Exposure to chlorine weakens these alloy metals, making the jewellery brittle over time. Remember to take your jewellery off before jumping in the pool or soaking in the hot tub!

10. Never Inspecting Your Ring

When was the last time you had your jewellery inspected by a professional? Regular inspections can catch small issues like loose stones or worn prongs before they become costly repairs. For newer rings, we recommend coming in once a year, and for vintage & antique pieces once every six months for an inspection. A quick check up can save you a lot of heartache!

Your fine jewellery is imbued with meaning, memories, and value—so treat it with the care and respect it deserves. By avoiding these common pitfalls, you’ll ensure that your favourite pieces remain as beautiful and dazzling as the day you got them. And remember, it’s okay to slip up now and then—just don’t make it a habit!