We don’t have to tell you how good jewelry looks against sun-tanned skin in the summertime. There’s a reason so many jewelry advertisements are photographed on a bright summer’s day, featuring a sun-kissed wrist or bronzed neckline, in a setting where precious jewelry often has no business being. As Memorial Day approaches, officially kicking off summer, we know everyone is ready to get outside. Before you head to the lake, mountains, or just out to the garden, make sure you know who your jewelry’s biggest foes are and how to keep your pieces safe this summer.
Enemy #1: Beach, Lake, & Pool
Bodies of water are not your jewelry’s friend. Chlorine is great if you want to tarnish metal and saltwater will corrode, particularly rose gold. Extended exposure to chlorine causes microscopic bubbles in gold and platinum, causing it to brittle and weaken over time. Saltwater can strip polish off gemstones and ever discolor some. Lakes, while freshwater, can be extremely cold, which shrinks your fingers, and in turn, increases the chances of your ring falling off, forever lost to the lake’s murky depths. It is estimated that some two million rings are lost at the beach per year. Sadly, this statistic won’t stop people from continuing to wear not only rings, but necklaces and bracelets out by the shore. Some people think they will be ok if they don’t set foot in the water, but water isn’t the only bad guy.
Enemy #2: Dirt, Sand, & Grime
Like saltwater, sand is your jewelry’s best bet if you want scratched metal, loose stones, and luster-less gems. Even if you put your jewelry in a beach bag, make sure it’s secured in a separate bag. While sunscreen and bug spray are your skin’s best friend, it is not your jewelry’s. Both cause grimy buildup, and, depending on the gemstones, chemical sensitivities.
Beware when hiking, rock-climbing, or cycling, as all offer great opportunities for scratching, snagging, and losing jewelry. Gloves will protect your hands but watch out for your solitaire engagement ring or tennis bracelet clasp.
Retreating to the garden while wearing jewelry can be just as dangerous. Dirt and small rocks love to get lodged in between stones and prongs. Gloves will protect from grime, but not from snags and loosening stones.
Enemy #3: Hot weather
Summer days means lots of time outside but beware how much heat and light exposure your jewelry gets. Different gemstones have varying levels of sensitivity to the sun and can fade over time. Hot weather can cause fingers to swell, which is not only dangerous, but could mean your jewelry has to be cut off, should you not be able to get the swelling down. Hot weather means your jewelry is also coming into contact with sweat and body oils, which can dull its natural shine.
Fighting the Enemy(ies)
Now you know what you’re up against, take measures. Visit your jeweler to check for loose gems, prongs and clasps. Clean your jewelry regularly to keep any eye on anything that is off. Most jewelers offer free cleanings, but you can also do it yourself with warm soapy water and a toothbrush. Store your jewelry in a clean, dry place; a fabric-lined jewelry case, or a box with compartments to prevent pieces from scratching each other. Finally, don’t snooze on having your favorites insured: the best way to find peace of mind as you head into summer.
Visit Sylvan's Jewelers, Downtown, Columbia, SC to explore our wide selection of jewelry! We would be happy to help you find the perfect piece for you!
