Fine Jewelry Care Tips For Summer

There are so many great things to look forward to during the summer months. Included among them is showing off your favorite summer styles, including the pieces of jewelry you pair with your summertime essentials. That means tank tops, shorts and swimsuits, paired with fun and funky sparkling pieces that make the warm weather fun and memorable. However, to keep your favorites looking their best, it's important to take good care of your valuable pieces so they are safe and last for years to come. With that in mind, add these summer jewelry care tips to your routine now so you don't suffer from a loss or have to pay for professional cleaning.

What Damages Jewelry During the Summer?

Knowing what issues arise during the summer season makes it easier to take care of your favorite precious pieces, no matter what activities you do.

Extreme Heat and Sunlight

Because you naturally spend more time outside when it's warm, it's a good idea to consider the elements when you wear and care for your jewelry. Prolonged exposure to sunlight, as well as high temperatures, can damage metals and stones, as well as change their color. 

Skincare Products

The summer skincare products you use can also damage your precious jewelry, taking away its natural shine and sparkle. That includes bug spray, the chemicals in sunscreen, and any of the lotions and creams you use to take care of and protect your skin during the summer. 

Dirt and Sand

Sand and dirt, whether your summer adventure takes you on a beach vacation or to the park down the street, can scratch precious gemstones and metals, ruining your valuable jewelry, especially those made from softer materials. 

Water

You might not think water can be damaging, but the truth is that it can do a number on your jewelry. The chemicals in pool water, including chlorinated water, can discolor precious metals and ruin the luster and shine of your favorite colored gemstones. Additionally, salt water can make your jewelry dingy and dirty and contact with water in the ocean can corrode many metals. The same is true of sweat, as it contains salt.

Taking these issues into account allows you to create a care routine for your jewelry that allows you to enjoy wearing it, but also keeps it shining and sparkling every day.

Simple Steps for Taking Care of Your Jewelry During the Summer

Now that you know what factors have the potential for damage, you are on a good road to knowing what to do to keep your jewelry in good shape. Here are the best ways to protect your expensive jewelry all summer long. 

Avoid Moisture and Heat

It's always best to store your jewelry in a dry, cool jewelry box when you're not wearing it. However, when you put it on, moisture and heat are also something to be concerned about. Try to keep your items from excessive heat exposure and direct sunlight. Remove your jewelry before swimming or sitting in the hot tub or sauna. 

Apply Skincare Products Before Jewelry

To keep your jewelry safe from potentially harsh chemicals found in sunscreen, lotions, creams and insect repellent, always apply these beauty products before you put on your jewelry. This helps prevent buildup on your fine jewelry. It pays to allow the items to soak in and settle for a few minutes as well. In the same way, remove all jewelry at the end of the day, before you apply your nighttime products. 

Clean and Polish Your Jewelry

Regular cleaning is one of the best ways to protect your jewelry and keep it looking its best. The general recommendation is to clean and polish your pieces every three to six months, but you can likely assume that this may be needed more often during the summer. Avoid using any corrosive products that can scratch your jewelry. Instead, clean each item gently with warm water and a soft cloth. You can use a bit of dish soap as well. This ensures that delicate materials are safe and sound during all of your endless summer activities.

Don't Wear It

One of the best ways to prevent damage to your jewelry is to simply not wear it. Whether you're going about your normal daily activities or you're enjoying a beachy vacation, it might be best to leave the jewelry behind, so you don't have to worry about damaging it. Save it for cool patio dinners or a night at an air-conditioned show and let your natural beauty shine through during your other activities.

Store Jewelry Properly

Whether you're traveling or staying at home, proper storage of your jewelry will keep it from scratching and scraping each other when you aren't wearing it. Keep items in distinct compartments so they aren't rubbing on one another, especially if you've packed the pieces for travel. Take only the jewelry you plan to wear, safeguarding the other items at home while you're gone. 

Best Jewelry to Wear This Summer

Do you want to add to your jewelry collection this summer? No matter where your plans carry you or what you plan on doing to get the most out of the season, the items on this list will round out your choices and make perfect sense for everything on your agenda.

Wear Turquoise

Make the most of the summer with the bright, bold color of turquoise. You'll stand out, no matter what you're wearing.

Go for Vivid Colors

A deep, rich shade is ideal for summer because it adds sparkle and drama to your favorite lightweight summer clothes. A sapphire ring is perfect for evoking that seaside feeling. 

Glam it Up with All Gold

 

Gold is a timeless choice and looks great with anything in your summer wardrobe. Anything you choose will be fabulous, but a gold bracelet is a particularly wonderful option. 

Try Celestial Shapes

Something inspired by the heavens, such as stars or crescents is a hot summer choice and is perfect for a summer night by the fire. A glittering star charm is a definite win. 

Layer on Dainty Pieces

Your clothes get lighter when the weather heats up, giving you the perfect opportunity to wear lighter jewelry at the same time. And dainty pieces are ideal for layering. Try a simple flower necklace that makes a big impact. 

Test Out the Appeal of Colored Enamel

If you want something bold to make this a special summer, colored enamel is a trend that you've got to try. The look can be both modern and vintage, giving you loads of flexibility. Get the look with a pair of hope earrings. 

Choose Beach Flair

Even if you can't make it to the sand and surf this year, you can bring on those beachy vibes with an ocean-inspired piece of jewelry. You can't go wrong with a palm tree charm. 

In Conclusion

No matter what style, color or kind of jewelry you have, keep it looking its sparkliest best this summer season by taking good care of it, even if that means not wearing it for all of your activities. When the weather cools off and you need something to add some life back to your days, you'll be so happy that all of your favorite pieces are shiny and ready to go. 

We hope you’ll find your next piece from the extensive collection of summer jewelry at Michael and Sons!