10 Tips for Summer Jewellery Care - An Expert's Guide

1. Keep Jewellery Away from Water

• Avoid Pool and Sea Water: Chlorine and saltwater can cause tarnishing and discolouration, especially for fine metals like sterling silver and gold. If you do wear jewellery to the beach or pool, rinse it thoroughly with fresh water afterward. Pool chlorine or sea salt can damage the clasps and affect the fittings.

• Shower without Jewelry: It's a good habit to remove jewellery before showering. The combination of soap, body wash, and water can dull and damage your pieces over time.

2. Protect from Sun Care Products

• Wait After Applying Suncream: Wearing a higher daily factor cream is great for your skin in summer but less so for your jewellery. Suncream, after-sun and insect repellent leave residue on your jewellery that can cause long term damage to your jewellery. Allow these skin care creams to fully dry and absorb into your skin before putting your jewellery on.

• Avoid Perfume Contact: Fragrances and prefumes contain chemicals that can corrode precious metal, especially gold and silver. Apply perfume first, allowing it to dry before adorning yourself with jewellery.
  

A good rule of thumb is jewellery is the last item to put on when you get ready for your day and the first to remove at the end,  no matter the time of year.

3. Clean Gently and Regularly

• Use a Soft Cloth: After exposure to saltwater, chlorine, or skin products, gently wipe your jewellery with a microfiber or soft cloth. This helps remove any residue without causing scratches. It also gives your jewellery an extra shine and lustre in the sun.

• DIY Cleaning for Silver: Use a gentle silver polish cloth or a mixture of mild soap and warm water for a quick clean. For deeper tarnish, a soft toothbrush and a paste of baking soda and water can do wonders.

• Gold Jewellery: Use a soft cloth and mild soap solution with a soft toothbrush for more intricate pieces to clean your gold jewellery. Never use abrasive tools, as they can damage the finish.

4. Store Jewellery Properly

• Avoid Sun Exposure: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause gemstones, especially softer ones like opals and pearls, to fade. Store your jewellery in a cool, dry place, ideally in a jewellery box or soft pouch.

• Separate your Jewellery: To avoid scratches, store each piece separately. Keep chains and bracelets in individual pouches or compartments, and store rings away from other hard jewellery. I recommend a small plastic bag to keep your pieces away from moisture and tarnish free.

5. Wearing Rings in the Heat

Be mindful that your hands swell in the heat so if a ring is already a snug fit, it may become difficult to remove in the heat. So why not leave it at home when you head to the sun. 

6. Be Cautious of Physical Activity

• Remove Jewellery for Sports or Physical Activity: Whether it’s swimming, hiking, sailing or similar physical activity, remove your jewellery to prevent potential damage or loss. Rings, bracelets, and necklaces can get scratched, tangled, or damaged by intense physical activity.

• Hands-on Work: If you're gardening, cleaning, or cooking, it's best to remove rings and bracelets to prevent them from becoming tarnished or scratched.

7. Check for Loose Settings

• Inspect Regularly: Heat and humidity can cause metals to expand and contract. This can loosen stones and prongs, especially in rings and necklaces. Before heading out, take a moment to ensure everything is securely set, and visit your jeweller for any necessary repairs.

8. Hydrate and Protect

1. Skin Care Routine: Dry skin can lead to friction between jewellery and skin, which can cause tarnish or wear. Keep your skin hydrated with a nourishing lotion to reduce this effect.

2. Stay Hydrated: You’ll keep your skin in great condition by drinking plenty of water, which also indirectly benefits the health of your jewelry by reducing tarnish caused by perspiration.

9.  Safety