When investing in a piece of high-end jewelry, most people expect it to last for a long time. As long as you take the time to understand how to care for it properly, there's no reason why you shouldn't still be enjoying your fine jewelry purchase for decades to come.
While every piece of jewelry is different and many have specific care instructions, there are some general rules that everyone should be aware of. Whether you just received an expensive gift or you treated yourself to something special, it's important that you learn how to care for your jewelry sooner rather than later.
If you're not sure where to get started, let's go over some basics when it comes to high-end jewelry.
Purchasing High-End Jewelry
A lot of people prefer to buy high-end jewelry on the resale market, either to save money or because of a preference for more vintage styles. If you're looking to invest in an expensive timepiece, for example, you could save thousands by going with a used Rolex watchinstead of a brand new model.
While it's essential to use a reputable dealer and understand the condition of the watch before you purchase it, buying used jewelry can often net you incredible products for a much more reasonable price.
Investing in something like a Rolex watch can seem extravagant, but there's a reason they're so highly sought after and maintain their value even decades after purchase. A special piece of jewelry is more than a status symbol, and many become heirlooms shared within a family for decades.
Beautiful jewelry with minor scratches and pieces that only require small repairs can often be found at massive discounts, so putting in a little extra effort could be well worth the time. Regardless of how you purchase your jewelry, do some research before you shop.
Understand what a reasonable price is for the type of piece you're looking for and how quality is measured, so you know the value of the gemstones and precious metal used to create each piece.
Jewelry Maintenance and Storage
Once you've purchased something high-end, it's essential that you understand how to protect your jewelry. Most jewelers recommend getting your fine jewelry cleaned professionally at least once a year. More elaborate pieces, especially those with multiple gemstones or ones that are worn daily, should be cleaned professionally twice a year.
When cleaning your jewelry at some, it's crucial that you understand what type of cleaner to use. Harsh chemicals can lead to corrosion and tarnish the metal. Fine jewelry is best cleaned by soaking it in warm water with dish-washing soap. If you need to scrub, use a gentle makeup brush for pearls and a soft toothbrush for metals and gemstones.
It's also necessary to store your jewelry properly. Professionals recommend a fabric-lined container or drawer. Keep your jewelry separated; you don't want any of your stones to damage other pieces nearby or for necklaces and bracelets to get tangled.
Sterling silver, specifically, should be stored in a special bag designed to prevent tarnishing. Certain gemstones, like opals and pearls, shouldn't be stored in anything airtight. When purchasing fine jewelry, ask how they recommend it to be stored before you leave.
If you run into any problems or find yourself unsure as to how to resolve an issue, take the time to reach out to the jeweler for advice before you try something on your own.
It's always better to take extra time and get an expert opinion than to risk damaging something expensive because you tried to fix it on your own. When cared for properly, fine jewelry can last for decades and be passed down, from generation to generation.
If you find yourself in possession of a high-end, precious piece of jewelry, you owe it to yourself to take the time to care for it well, so you and your loved ones can enjoy it for years to come.
