Are You Damaging Your Jewelry? 5 Everyday Habits to Avoid

It’s easy to assume you bought “bad quality” jewelry when your favourite piece starts to fade or get damaged in a short period of time. But in many cases, it’s not the jewelry — it’s our everyday habits that cause the damage.

Whether you spent a lot or a little on your pieces, proper care is what helps them last longer. Here are some common mistakes to avoid if you want your jewelry to retain its beauty and shine.

Mistake 1: Spraying perfume or lotion directly on jewelry

If your jewelry is the first thing you put on when getting dressed, you may be damaging it. Jewelry should always be the last thing you wear, after applying lotion and spraying perfume. Even with non-tarnish pieces, this rule still applies. The chemicals in perfumes and lotions can affect plating and dull the shine when they come in direct contact with jewelry.

 

Mistake 2: Storing jewelry carelessly

Do you leave your jewelry on your bedside table, dressing table, or loosely piled together? Improper storage exposes your pieces to air and humidity, which can cause fading over time. Storing jewelry without separating them can also lead to tangling and scratches. A jewelry box with individual compartments helps protect each piece and keeps them in good condition.

 

Mistake 3: Sleeping with jewelry on

No matter how tired you are, it’s always best to remove your jewelry before going to bed. Constant friction and pressure can weaken clasps, bend chains, and reduce the overall lifespan of your pieces.

 

Mistake 4: Cleaning with harsh materials

Using rough cloths, tissues, or strong chemicals can scratch the surface of your jewelry and take away its shine. Gentle cleaning methods are always safer and more effective.

Mistake 5: Not cleaning jewelry at all

Just like clothes, jewelry also collects sweat, oil, and dust over time. This buildup can dull the shine if not cleaned occasionally. Always clean your jewelry according to its material and follow the proper care guidelines.

With the right habits and proper care, your non-tarnish jewelry can remain beautiful and last for years.

 

Images by freepik

Written by Veronica Elijah