Protect What You Love
Jewelry Care
At Lewis Jewelers, we understand how meaningful your jewelry is—whether it’s a treasured gift, a symbol of commitment, or a well-earned addition to your collection. That’s why regular care is essential to protect your investment and preserve its beauty.
We’re always here to help with professional cleanings and inspections in our Ann Arbor store. But there are also simple steps you can take at home to keep your jewelry looking its best between visits. Here’s how.
How Do I Care for Diamond Jewelry?
Diamonds are incredibly durable, but they still need attention to maintain their beauty and scintillation. To clean your diamonds at home, soak them once or twice a week in a bowl of warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap. After 20 minutes of soaking, gently brush the piece with a soft jewelry brush, paying extra attention to the back of the stone where oils and residue tend to collect. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a lint-free cloth.
How Do I Care for Colored Gemstones and Pearls?
Most colored gemstones can be safely cleaned with a soft brush, warm water, and gentle soap. But pearls are very different—they require a softer touch. Never submerge pearls in water. Instead, use a damp cloth dipped in a diluted soap-and-water mix to gently wipe the surface of your pearls. Let them dry flat on a soft cloth to maintain the integrity of the silk thread that strings them together. Pearls should always be the “last thing on, and the first thing off” when dressing.
Everyday Jewelry Care Tips
Watch out for heat and light.
Just like your skin, certain gemstones are sensitive to UV exposure. Prolonged sun exposure can cause fading or color change—especially in gems like amethyst, topaz, and pearls. Pearls can also become brittle or discolored with excessive light.
Avoid wearing jewelry in sand or soil.
Whether you’re gardening or heading to the beach, it’s best to remove your jewelry beforehand. Grit from sand and soil acts like sandpaper on metals and gems, causing scratches and dullness.
Steer clear of chlorine and harsh chemicals.
Hairspray, perfume, lotion, and household cleaners can damage porous stones like turquoise, opals, and pearls—and can even discolor precious metals. Always remove jewelry before swimming in pools or using cleaning products. Even gold and platinum aren’t immune to damage from everyday chemicals.
Skip the toothbrush.
While it might seem like a good tool for cleaning hard-to-reach spots, a toothbrush can actually be too abrasive—and the long handle can apply pressure in the wrong places, potentially damaging prongs. Stick with a small, soft brush designed for jewelry instead.
Can I Use an Ultrasonic Cleaner on My Jewelry?
Ultrasonic cleaners are convenient, but not always gentle. The vibrations they produce can loosen stones, especially in pavé or vintage settings. If you use one, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully—or better yet, let us handle the cleaning for you.
Have questions or want to schedule a cleaning?
Visit us at Lewis Jewelers in Ann Arbor, set an appointment or call us at (734) 994-5111. We’re here to help keep your jewelry looking its absolute best—for today, tomorrow, and generations to come.
How Should I Store My Jewelry?
Don’t toss your jewelry into a drawer or let it pile up on your nightstand. Jewelry pieces can easily scratch each other—or worse, become tangled or damaged. Store each piece separately in a padded jewelry box, soft pouch, or its original packaging to avoid unnecessary wear and tear.
Remove Jewelry When It Makes Sense
It’s a good idea to take your jewelry off before going to bed or engaging in physical activity. Precious metals like gold and silver can scratch from contact with hard surfaces—even your bedsheets. Sweat and friction from workouts can also wear down metals and loosen stones over time. When in doubt, take it off and keep it safe.
How Should I Travel with Jewelry?
Packing smart is key. Use a soft travel case designed for jewelry, or wrap individual pieces in tissue paper for protection. Necklaces and bracelets can be threaded through a straw to prevent tangling. A little prep will help your pieces arrive in perfect condition—ready to wear wherever life takes you.
Plan On Jewelry Spa Days
Just like your car needs a tune-up, your fine jewelry benefits from an annual inspection. Bring your favorite pieces to Lewis Jewelers and let our expert team check prongs, clasps, and gemstone settings. We’ll also provide a professional cleaning so your jewelry looks just as radiant as the day you received it. Think of it as a spa day for your most treasured pieces.
Protecting the Piece That Means the Most
Engagement Ring Care Tips from Lewis Jewelers
Your engagement ring is more than just fine jewelry—it’s a daily symbol of your love and commitment. At Lewis Jewelers, we understand the emotional and sentimental value behind every ring we help you choose. That’s why we’ve put together this simple care guide to help you keep your ring looking as brilliant as the day you said “yes.”
How Do I Clean My Engagement Ring at Home?
Over time, everyday buildup from lotions, soaps, makeup, and even your environment can dull the shine of your ring. The good news? A gentle at-home cleaning routine can help restore its brilliance.
Here’s how:
- Soak your ring in warm water mixed with a few drops of mild dish soap for about 20–30 minutes.
- Using a soft toothbrush (or a lint-free cloth), gently clean around the setting and under the stones.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water—just make sure the drain is securely closed!
- Dry with a soft, lint-free towel.
Avoid ultrasonic cleaners at home unless you’re certain your ring is suited for it—some gemstone settings and treatments can be damaged by the vibrations.
What Can I Avoid When Cleaning My Ring?
Even though diamonds are incredibly durable, certain cleaning methods can still cause damage to your ring or its setting.
Avoid:
- Harsh chemicals like bleach, chlorine, or acetone
- Abrasive cleaners such as baking soda or toothpaste
- Hard-bristled brushes that may scratch metals or loosen stones
Not sure about a cleaner? When in doubt, ask us—we’re happy to help you choose the safest option for your specific ring.
How Often Should You Clean Your Ring?
For rings worn every day, a gentle at-home cleaning every week or two will help keep buildup at bay. But over time, a professional cleaning is essential—not just for sparkle, but for peace of mind.
We recommend having your engagement ring professionally cleaned and inspected once a year. During this visit, we’ll:
- Tighten any loose prongs or settings
- Check for wear and tear on the band
- Rhodium Replate for white gold, if needed
- Reach the spots household cleaning can’t
This preventative maintenance helps ensure the safety and longevity of your ring.
