Like most heirlooms, jewelry is often an intimate and treasured possession. To preserve the quality of the pieces that are both new and old, it is important to note the proper care techniques. In addition to obtaining Clifton Jewelry Collection Insurance to adequately protect your vibrant collection, consider the following recommendations for jewelry care.
Light and Heat
Just as the sun’s harmful rays can damage our skin, light and heat can affect a colored gemstone’s durability and color, says GIA. This is especially true for gemstones such as amethysts and topaz, which can become ultra-damaged by the sun. Further, pearls can become bleached under constant sun exposure and gemstones like amber can actually darken over time. What’s more, excessive heat and drastic temperature variations can cause some gemstones to fracture and split. This causes the sheen and color to be compromised over time, which decreases their value.
Chemicals
To avoid discoloring your jewelry, avoid using harsh chemicals. Avoid using any cleaning agents with ammonia or chlorine as they can strip the color off of jewelry. Fine jewelry should always be removed prior to cleaning or going into pools with chlorine. Further, clean your jewelry carefully with water and a lint-free cloth to reduce the residue buildup from lotions, creams, perfume, hair products, etc.
Ultrasonic Cleaners
Not all gemstones are eligible to be cleaned by ultrasonic cleaners. For examples, gemstones that have cracks on the surface and have been filled in with glass or oil, organic gemstones, and heat-treated stones should not be cleaned with ultrasonic cleaners. The heat, vibrations, and solvents used by these agents can be harmful to these gemstones and should be professionally cleaned instead.
At Provident Protection Plus Insurance Agency, we want to ensure that your beloved heirlooms remain protected. Our customized coverage options offer a variety of options to safeguard your entire jewelry collection. For more information about our products, contact us today at (888) 990-0526.