Common Mistakes That Damage Your Jewelry

Fine jewelry is more than just an accessory; it's a collection of memories, a symbol of milestones, and an investment in timeless beauty. Whether it's a sparkling diamond ring, a pair of elegant earrings, or a sentimental pendant, each piece deserves care to maintain its brilliance. Many of us, however, make small, everyday mistakes that can tarnish, scratch, or permanently damage these precious items. Understanding these common habits is the first step toward preserving your jewelry's longevity and luster for generations to come. This guide will walk you through the most frequent jewelry care missteps and provide simple, effective ways to avoid them.

Wearing Your Jewelry 24/7

While it’s tempting to never take off your favorite pieces, constant wear exposes them to a host of potential dangers. Certain activities can cause significant harm, from dulling the metal to dislodging a stone.

The Problem with Chemicals

Everyday products contain chemicals that can be harsh on precious metals and gemstones. Hairspray, perfume, lotions, and sunscreens can create a film on your jewelry, dulling its shine. More corrosive substances found in household cleaners, like bleach and ammonia, can cause discoloration or even structural damage to gold and platinum.

How to Avoid It: Make your jewelry the last thing you put on before leaving the house and the first thing you take off when you get home. This simple rule minimizes contact with cosmetics and lotions. When cleaning, always remove your jewelry or wear protective gloves.

Damage from Physical Activities

Wearing jewelry during strenuous activities is a recipe for disaster. Working out, gardening, or playing sports can lead to scratches, dents, and bent prongs. A hard knock can easily chip a gemstone or loosen a setting, increasing the risk of losing a precious stone. Even sleeping with your jewelry on can be problematic, as prongs can snag on bedding, weakening their grip over time.

How to Avoid It: Before you head to the gym, start a home improvement project, or go to bed, designate a safe spot to store your pieces. This protects both your jewelry and yourself from potential injury.

Improper Storage and Organization

Tossing your jewelry into a single drawer or dish at the end of the day is one of the quickest ways to cause damage. Proper storage is not just about organization; it's about protection.

The Dangers of Tangling and Scratching

When necklaces, bracelets, and earrings are jumbled together, they inevitably scratch and tangle. Harder gemstones like diamonds can easily scratch softer stones and metals. Chains can become knotted, and trying to untangle them can strain or break delicate links.

How to Fix It: Store each piece individually. Use a jewelry box with separate compartments lined with soft fabric. Fabric pouches or small zip-top bags are also excellent for keeping items separate, especially when traveling. For necklaces, consider hanging them on a stand to prevent tangles.

Exposure to Air and Sunlight

Some metals, particularly sterling silver, are prone to tarnishing when exposed to air and humidity. Additionally, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause certain gemstones, like amethyst and opal, to fade over time.

How to Fix It: Keep your jewelry in a cool, dark, and dry place. A closed jewelry box or an anti-tarnish bag will protect your pieces from the environmental factors that contribute to discoloration and fading.

Neglecting Regular Cleaning and Maintenance

Just like any other valuable possession, jewelry requires regular upkeep to look its best. Dirt, oils, and grime accumulate over time, masking the natural beauty of your pieces.

Forgetting to Clean at Home

Lotions, skin oils, and dust can build up on the surface and in the small crevices of your jewelry. This buildup not only dulls the sparkle of gemstones but can also attract bacteria. Many people wait until their jewelry looks visibly dirty before cleaning it, but by then, the buildup can be difficult to remove.

How to Fix It: Gently clean your jewelry at home every few weeks. For most diamond and gold pieces, a simple solution of warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap will do the trick. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to carefully scrub away grime, especially around settings and behind stones. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.

Skipping Professional Servicing

While at-home cleaning is essential, it cannot replace the expertise of a professional jeweler. Professionals can perform deep cleaning with specialized equipment and inspect your pieces for any signs of wear and tear, such as loose prongs or weak clasps. Ignoring these small issues can lead to much bigger problems, like a lost diamond from your favorite Luna© Bangle.

How to Fix It: Bring your most-worn pieces, especially rings and bracelets, for a professional check-up at least once a year. At La Marquise, we offer lifetime cleaning and assessment to ensure your jewelry remains secure and brilliant. This service allows us to spot potential issues before they become costly repairs.

Choosing the Wrong Jewelry for the Occasion

Not all jewelry is created equal. Some pieces are designed for daily wear, while others are more delicate and best reserved for special occasions. Wearing fragile gemstone jewelry, like pieces from our gemstone collections, during high-impact activities can lead to irreparable damage.

When selecting a piece for daily wear, consider both the metal and the gemstone's durability. Harder stones like diamonds and sapphires are more resilient, while softer stones like opals and pearls require more gentle handling. If you desire a unique piece tailored to your lifestyle, our bespoke jewelry concierge can help you design something that is both beautiful and practical for your needs.

Protect Your Precious Investments

Your jewelry is a tangible link to your most cherished moments. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your beautiful pieces continue to shine brightly for a lifetime. With a little mindfulness and regular care, you can protect your investment and enjoy the full beauty of your entire collection for years to come.