We hope you enjoy these tips for the care and cleaning of your jewelry items. Additional information can be found in the sites in our Jewelry Links area.

Keep jewelry in separate compartments or wrapped in tissue in tiny plastic bags, to protect pieces from scratching each other.

Showering and cleaning can leave a soap film on your jewelry and make the surfaces appear dull, so try to remove your jewelry first. Also, exposure of jewelry (especially white gold) to chlorine can increase the risk for stress cracks.

Diamond jewelry can be cleaned with any fine quality commercial jewelry cleaner. Be sure to follow the instructions and keep the cleaner away from colored gemstones, as many are adversely affected by strong cleaning solutions. Check with a jeweler for cleaning instructions for specific gemstones.

Avoid wearing jewelry when doing rough work or engaging in sports, to minimize the risk of breaking or chipping. Even diamonds can be chipped by a sharp blow. Also be aware of the delicacy of your fine gold chains--avoid subjecting your chain to stresses that can weaken it, such as wearing it when sleeping, hanging a pendant too heavy for it, or allowing baby to pull on it.

Sterling silver will discolor over time as it reacts with contaminants and oxygen in the air. Frequent wearing of silver jewelry actually helps its appearance as the oxidation is rubbed off as it forms. You can also remove it with a jewelry cleaner for silver. Follow the instructions and be sure to rinse cleaner off of your jewelry. Be particularly careful in cleaning silver jewelry set with turquoise and malachite, as these stones are especially sensitive to chemicals.

Cultured pearls can be damaged by exposure to harsh chemicals or abrasives; handle them with care, put them on with clean hands after makeup and hairspray have been applied, and store them in a soft bag.