A useful jewelry care routine starts with knowing what you own. The metal, gemstones, treatments and setting all affect how a piece should be cleaned and worn. A method that works for one ring may damage another.
This jewelry care guide explains practical habits for protecting the pieces you enjoy. At N.J. Diamonds, we can inspect your jewelry in person and discuss care suited to that specific item.
Everyday Jewelry Care
- Remove jewelry before heavy lifting, gardening, contact sports and work that can catch or strike it.
- Take jewelry off before using household cleaners or entering a pool or hot tub.
- Apply perfume, hairspray and lotions before putting on jewelry. Let products dry first.
- Check clasps, prongs and settings regularly. Stop wearing a piece if a stone moves or a prong catches.
- Keep a safe, consistent place to put jewelry when you remove it.
Cleaning: Identify the Materials First
If you are unsure of a gemstone’s identity or treatment, ask before using a jewelry cleaner. Avoid bleach, abrasive powders, toothpaste and harsh household chemicals. Do not assume that a product marked for jewelry is suitable for every gem.
For many secure, untreated diamond pieces, gentle cleaning with lukewarm water, mild soap and a soft brush can remove everyday buildup. Check the setting first, use a bowl instead of an open sink, rinse carefully and dry with a soft cloth. This method is not a blanket instruction for all gemstones or jewelry.
Colored Gemstones and Treated Stones
Heat, solvents and cleaning machines can affect some gemstones and treatments. Filled fractures, coatings or other enhancements can require special care. Keep any treatment information with your purchase records, and follow care advice for the individual stone.
Our colored gemstones guide explains what to ask when comparing stones. When the identity or treatment is uncertain, a professional inspection is the better next step.
Pearl Jewelry Care
Wipe pearls gently with a soft, clean cloth after wearing them. Protect them from perfume, hairspray, cleaning chemicals and rough surfaces. Store them separately in a soft pouch or lined compartment, away from heat.
Do not use ultrasonic or steam cleaners on pearls. If a strung necklace needs cleaning, let the string dry completely before wearing it. Have the strand checked when its thread stretches, darkens or wears. See our pearl care information for more detail.
Should You Use an Ultrasonic Cleaner?
Not without confirming that the complete piece is suitable. Some gems, treatments and fragile settings can be damaged. Vibration can also loosen stones in worn settings. Pearls and fracture-filled gems are examples that need special caution. A cleaner cannot repair a loose prong.
Gold and White Gold Care
Store jewelry so separate pieces do not rub or tangle. Use individual compartments or soft pouches, and fasten necklaces before putting them away. Gold jewelry can scratch during wear. White gold may have a rhodium finish that wears with use; learn more in our white gold and rhodium guide.
When to Bring Jewelry In
Bring in a piece if you notice a loose stone, bent or catching prong, worn clasp, thinning ring band, broken link or stretched pearl thread. Avoid pulling on a damaged chain or bending a prong yourself. Keep any loose stones or parts with the piece.
N.J. Diamonds provides in-store jewelry repair in Dearborn. We inspect the construction and condition before recommending cleaning, repair or restoration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I clean all my jewelry together?
No. Separate pieces by their materials and care needs. Mixed jewelry may require the gentlest method suitable for its most delicate component.
Does a diamond’s hardness mean it cannot be damaged?
No. Hardness describes resistance to scratching; a diamond can still chip under an impact. Protect the stone and keep its setting secure.
How often should my jewelry be inspected?
Ask for a schedule based on the item and how often you wear it. Have it checked promptly after an impact or whenever you notice movement, catching or visible wear.
Jewelry Care Help in Dearborn
N.J. Diamonds has served the Detroit Metro Area from the same location since 1996. Visit 5601 Schaefer Road at Ford Road in Dearborn, or contact us with questions about cleaning, inspection or repair.
Further reading: GIA’s jewelry care guidance and pearl care guidance.