Caring for Your Jewellery in Colder Weather: Expert Tips for Autumn Maintenance
As the seasons shift and the temperature drops, it’s not just your wardrobe that needs a bit of extra attention. The colder months can take a toll on your jewellery too, from increased humidity to sudden temperature changes that might affect certain pieces. But with a few simple steps, you can keep your favourite rings, necklaces, and watches looking their best all autumn long.
Here are some expert tips to help you care for your jewellery as we head into the chillier months.
1. Watch Out for Moisture
With colder weather often comes an increase in humidity, which isn’t great for some types of jewellery. Excess moisture can cause metals like silver and gold to tarnish faster, and gemstones to lose their sparkle.
To avoid this, it’s a good idea to store your jewellery in a dry, cool place. If possible, keep each piece in an anti-tarnish pouch or cloth.
You can also pop a small packet of silica gel into your jewellery box to absorb excess moisture.
2. Remove Jewellery Before Heading Outside
Colder temperatures can cause your skin to contract, which can make rings and bracelets feel a little loose. It’s easier than you think to lose a ring when your fingers shrink in the cold!
To avoid this, take off any loose jewellery before heading out into the chilly weather, especially if you’ll be outdoors for a long time.
Also, it’s worth remembering that sharp temperature changes – such as going from the cold outdoors to a warm, heated room – can stress certain gemstones and materials.
Pearls, for example, are particularly sensitive to temperature changes, so try to keep them in a stable environment.
3. Clean and Polish Regularly
Autumn is the perfect time to give your jewellery a little extra care. As you’re layering up with scarves and jumpers, your jewellery can pick up extra dirt and oils, dulling their shine.
To keep your pieces gleaming, clean them regularly with a gentle jewellery cleaner or a soft cloth.
For more delicate pieces like gold or those with precious stones, a quick wipe with a damp cloth should do the trick. If your jewellery is in need of a deep clean or professional polishing, it’s a good idea to have them checked out by a jeweller.
4. Check Your Settings and Clasps
Autumn is a busy time of year with lots of activity, and you’ll want to make sure your jewellery is up to the challenge.
Before the season gets fully underway, check the clasps on necklaces and bracelets, and the settings on rings or earrings.
Colder weather can sometimes affect metals, making clasps and settings loosen slightly. A quick inspection can save you from losing a precious piece of jewellery, so if you notice anything feels a little loose, bring it to a jeweller for a quick adjustment.
5. Keep Your Watches in Good Condition
If you wear a watch daily, autumn’s cooler and damper air can affect the metal and leather straps. Leather straps, in particular, can absorb moisture from the air, causing them to crack or discolour over time.
To prevent this, it’s best to avoid exposing leather straps to too much moisture and give them a gentle clean with a dry cloth from time to time.
For watches with metal bracelets, keep an eye out for tarnishing. If your watch looks like it’s losing its shine, a professional cleaning will help bring it back to its former glory. And don’t forget: autumn is the perfect time to get your watch serviced if you haven’t done so recently!
6. Store Jewellery Safely
When you’re not wearing your jewellery, proper storage is key. Autumn is often a time of change and activity, so it’s easy to accidentally misplace or damage your favourite pieces.
To avoid this, invest in a good-quality jewellery box with separate compartments. This helps prevent your jewellery from tangling or scratching against other pieces.
If you’re travelling, pack your jewellery in a soft pouch or travel case to keep everything protected and organised.
Autumn Jewellery Care: Because Your Jewellery Deserves to Shine!
As the days get shorter and colder, a little extra care goes a long way in keeping your jewellery in top condition. From checking settings to keeping your pieces dry, these simple maintenance tips will help your jewellery sparkle all season long.
So, as you wrap up in cosy layers and enjoy the autumn breeze, don’t forget to show your favourite jewellery a little love too. After all, just like the perfect autumn wardrobe, your jewellery deserves to shine!
If you’re looking to treat yourself to a new piece of jewellery this autumn, call in to E.K. Jewellers in Hainault, where you’ll be met with a warm seasonal welcome, and all the advice you need to choose the perfect piece to complement your autumn wardrobe.