If you, like many other individuals, take pride in wearing your jewelry, you’re going to want to make sure your pieces remain beautiful and last for years to come. After all, jewelry has both sentimental and monetary value, so it’s prudent to follow these jewelry care tips to ensure you’ll always be able to enjoy wearing your favorite pieces.

• Take your jewelry off before doing strenuous activities like exercising or household chores. Rings made from softer metals like gold and silver can become contorted when the ring wearer lifts a heavy object. And when it comes to cleaning, some of the chemicals commonly used in household cleaning solutions have been known to weaken or discolor metal.
• When getting ready for the day, put your jewelry on last. Makeup, hairspray, and lotion can all damage certain porous gemstones like pearls and turquoise and can make other gemstones appear dull.
• Keep your colored gemstone and pearl jewelry at home if you’re planning on being outside in the sun for an extended period of time. Excessive heat and light exposure can negatively affect the appearance and durability of certain gemstones.
• Don’t shower or sleep with your jewelry on. Shampoo and soap can built up over time and make your gemstones appear dull. They can also weaken metals and chains, leading to potential breakage. And wearing your jewelry while you sleep can lead to prongs bending out of shape if they’re caught on a sheet or blanket.
• Find a place to safely store your jewelry whenever you’re not wearing it. It’s a good idea to have one spot, usually a jewelry box, where you can store your jewelry. Doing so will decrease your chances of accidentally misplacing any earrings, necklaces, rings, or bracelets. It’s also a good idea to store your jewelry separate from other pieces to ensure they won’t develop scratches.
• Don’t wear your jewelry in any pools or hot tubs. Certain chemicals, like chlorine, have been known to damage precious metal, making your chances of discoloration or losing a gemstone more likely. The cold water in pools can also shrink your fingers, making it more likely for your ring to accidentally fall off.
• Have your jewelry professionally checked and cleaned at least once a year. Prongs can wear down over time so it’s a good idea to have a jeweler examine your piece and make sure all of the gemstones are properly secured. Dirt can also get trapped in settings, making your jewelry appear dull and lifeless. So having your pieces professionally cleaned every once in a while will ensure they remain just as sparkly and beautiful as the day you first put them on.