Angie's LIST Guide to
Jewelry

The type of jewelry you own will determine the care and maintenance required. Generally, harder and higher quality materials, such as diamonds and platinum, will last longer and require less maintenance than softer, less expensive materials.

When it comes to repair or replacement, market and sentimental value come into play. With costume jewelry, it may be more cost-effective to buy a new piece instead of paying for repairs. Antique and high-end jewelry, on the other hand, will likely require professional maintenance and repairs.

Tips for jewelry care:

• Examine jewelry at each wearing. Check for damage or loose stones.
• When swimming, washing dishes, gardening or doing other dirty jobs, take off rings or wear gloves.
• If you wear a ring on a daily basis, it is important to take it off regularly to check the fit and make sure it's not being damaged. If the ring becomes too tight or loose, take it to a jeweler to be fitted.
• It's recommended that fine jewelry be cleaned every six months. With expensive or fragile pieces, it may be best to have an expert handle cleaning and repairs. Some jewelers offer free jewelry cleaning and repair on pieces they sell.

To clean jewelry yourself:

• Use canned air to clean off dust.
• Use baking soda and a toothbrush to clean stones and silver.
• If a string breaks on a necklace, you can buy replacement string or wire at a bead or craft store and restring the necklace. Likewise, you can buy replacement clasps.