Here are some tips to help your jewelry last long.

 

All of us love to buy and wear jewelry. But what many don't realize is that it also needs to be protected from scratching, chemicals, sunlight and heat/cold. Ideally, you should store your jewelry in a soft cushioned box or pouch and keep them apart, so that they don't spoil.

 

Silver 

 

Silver jewelry can spoil really easily as it's a natural metal that oxidizes with contact to air. Rub a polishing cloth over your silver every month to keep it shiny. Avoid letting water in contact with silver and store in a dry container.

 

Pearls

 

Avoid using detergents, baking soda or bleaches while cleaning pearl jewelry because they contain harsh chemicals that can damage the sheen of the pearls. Always use a soft cloth to rub the pearls to clean out the dirt and sweat residue. Perfumes and hairsprays can make pearls discolored. Store them away from other metallic jewelry.

 

Gold

 

Gold does not tarnish or rust quickly. It's best to clean your gold pieces by dipping them in a solution made of water and mild detergent. Lightly scrub with an old toothbrush and rinse out. Use of abrasive chemical cleaners can strip away its natural luster and shine, so avoid using them.

 

Diamonds

 

Diamonds and precious stones like rubies, emeralds and sapphires are among the toughest. Clean your gemstone pieces with a soft cloth moistened with warm water. Ensure that you store them away carefully. It might be worthwhile to get your old jewelry polished by a professional once in a while.