Jewelry should be cleaned on a regular basis. This is to prevent dirt and grime from building up on the stones, which can make it difficult to see any imperfections that may be present. Jewelry also needs to be cleaned to prevent damage to the metal or gems within the setting. Certain gemstones, such as pearls, emeralds, opals, coral, and bone are more delicate than others and need exceptional care.
Dirtiness
Keeping your jewelry clean is not only a good idea for its beauty and health, but it also protects the materials that make them up. A clean piece of jewelry is less likely to show signs of damage from wear and tear, such as loose stones or damaged prongs.
Loose Stones
Loose gemstones are a great way to create custom pieces of jewelry. They are also a lot cheaper than their mounted counterparts and offer an opportunity to express your individual style. If your loose gemstones begin to ‘rattle’, or you notice that they are moving around in their setting, it is time to get them cleaned by a professional. This can help prevent the stone from becoming damaged and losing its value. It is also important to check your center stones regularly for loose prongs. This is especially important if you have had your rings for a while, as timeworn prongs may become loose and start to catch on things.
Damage
Keeping your jewelry clean can help you catch damage before it gets worse. Smudges and build-ups from lotions, make up or oils can dim the shine and expose areas that might need repair or replacement. It’s also a good idea to remove your jewelry before swimming, sweating, showering, or doing any other activity that involves chemicals that can harm fine jewelry. Cleaning solutions and other detergents can dull and discolor gold and silver pieces, so removing your jewelry before those activities can reduce the likelihood of scratches or tarnishing.
Damaged Prongs
Prongs are a crucial part of the setting of your jewelry. Without them, your gemstone would be at risk of slipping out and falling off your finger. You should check the prongs of your ring on a regular basis. It is recommended that you do so around every six months or so, using a loupe or magnifying glass. If you notice that a prong is bent or not lying flat on the stone, then you will need to get it repaired. This is called prong retipping and it can be done by your jeweler.
Rust
Rust is one of the most telltale signs that you need to get your jewelry cleaned. It’s caused by a chemical reaction between water and metals, like sterling silver. The good news is that you can easily avoid rust by keeping your jewelry away from water as much as possible. This includes removing your pieces before going swimming, showering, and sweating in the gym. If your necklace or bracelet starts to tarnish, you can easily clean it with simple ingredients that you probably already have in your home. Some of these include white vinegar and dish soap. Another popular and easy to use method is toothpaste. Just mix equal parts of toothpaste and baking soda into a thick paste, then apply to the rusty spots on your jewelry and let it sit for about 10 minutes. Rinse it thoroughly and use a soft toothbrush to scrub away the remaining rust.