For many people, jewelry has sentimental value and meaning that cannot be replaced. That’s why it’s essential to take good care of your collection. Understanding how to clean and protect your treasured pieces can make a huge difference in maintaining their quality and beauty for years to come. Here are six ways to keep your jewelry looking brand new.
1. Wipe after every wear. Use a soft, slightly damp cloth to wipe down jewelry after you take it off. This will enhance luster and ensure it’s clean before storage.
2. Deep clean to remove buildup. For a more thorough clean, use jewelry cleaner on a soft-bristled toothbrush and gently scrub, getting into all the small crevices. When done, wipe dry with a soft cloth.
3. Keep jewelry off when applying lotions. Don’t wear your jewelry when applying lotions or sunscreen. These products cause a film to form, making your pieces appear dull and dingy.
4. Avoid damaging chemicals. Remove your jewelry before going into a hot tub, swimming pool, or salt water. Chlorine and salt water can damage and discolor metals and slowly erode the finish and polish of gemstones.
5. Secure jewelry while working out. Take off rings, bracelets, and necklaces while exercising as they can easily get snagged, scratched or chipped on equipment.
6. Use proper storage. The safest place for your jewelry is an organized fabric-lined box located in a dry, temperature-controlled place. This will keep your collection shining and ensure longevity.
In addition to properly caring for your precious possessions, it’s important to have adequate insurance coverage. Most homeowners policies only provide limited coverage for lost or damaged valuables such as jewelry, electronics, fine art, and collectibles. With jewelry and valuables insurance, your items can be replaced at their current replacement value. Contact a Westwood agent for more information about this valuable protection.
Please Note: This article is for general informational and educational purposes only. It does not represent any specific insurance policy and does not modify any provisions, limitations, or exclusions of any current policy.
