Normal Expectations for Wear and Tear on Jewelry
Some jewelry wears out more than others, especially items worn every day, like engagement and wedding bands or earrings. Unfortunately, the more you wear your favorite piece of jewelry, the more likely it is to sustain minor damages. While normal wear and tear is largely unavoidable, there are a few ways you can reduce it to extend the lifespan of your jewelry collection.
Durability Based on the Type of Jewelry
Certain types of jewelry can withstand wear and tear better than others. Fine jewelry made from precious metals tends to last longer than fashion jewelry in cheap, less durable materials. When comparing precious metals, gold tends to be softer and more prone to scratches, while platinum is the hardest and most durable choice for everyday wear.
Gemstone jewelry comes with its own challenges. Diamonds, rubies, and sapphires are the hardest and most durable stones, while gems such as amethyst and pearls are more susceptible to damage.
The cut, shape, and setting of your stones also affect your jewelry’s durability. For example, an engagement ring with a Tiffany setting uses prongs to secure the diamond, often leaving the sides exposed. In contrast, protective settings like a bezel or halo, shield your stone from damage.
What Is Considered Normal Jewelry Wear and Tear?
A jewelry warranty typically doesn’t cover everyday wear and tear. That includes minor scratches, scuffs, dents, and slight discoloration. White and rose gold jewelry may fade slightly over time, revealing the yellow hue under the plating. Pearls and semiprecious gemstones can collect dust and grease, which gradually dull their shine.
Additionally, prongs, clasps, and other fasteners may loosen with use. Prongs should not look flat or “pancaked” when holding your stones. That is a sure fire sign that your jewelry needs inspecting and maintenance. Take your ring or necklace to a jeweler if you notice any loose stones or dented metal for a professional assessment. An early check can prevent gems from detaching completely.
How to Minimize Wear and Tear on Your Jewelry
The top causes of normal wear and tear are exposing your jewelry to the elements or chemical substances and knocking or bumping it against hard surfaces. Most daily activities present some risk of damage. Here are 10 ways to reduce jewelry wear and tear:
- Don’t sleep with your jewelry on.
- Remove jewelry before swimming or bathing.
- Don’t wear your jewelry to the gym and avoid sweating on it.
- Clean jewelry regularly with a soft cloth.
- Store fine jewelry in a fabric-lined case away from other metals.
- Don’t spray perfume over your jewelry.
- Wear individual pieces rather than stacking fine jewelry.
- Don’t clean the house or work with chemicals while wearing jewelry.
- Minimize exposure to sand and other abrasive materials.
- Take your jewelry to a jeweler for routine inspections at least once a year.
JPratt offers jewelry cleaning and maintenance in Dallas. We will gladly inspect your rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets for damage and offer our professional jewelry care advice.
When Is Jewelry Repair Necessary?
If you notice damage besides average deterioration, it’s probably time to find professional
jewelry repair services from a licensed jeweler. JPratt can help you resize your ring, mend a broken chain or clasp, and remount stones dislodging from their settings. We can also clean and polish metals and gemstones for you when dullness or discoloration appears.
Get Expert Jewelry Care and Maintenance at JPratt
Daily wear will ultimately take a toll on your fine jewelry and precious metals. Visit JPratt Designs in Dallas for a complete assessment to prevent damage to your favorite items. Contact us for more information on how we can help you take care of the jewelry you love.