Your typical winter routine includes leaving your faucets dripping, putting down protective mats in your car and on your hardwood floors and switching out your featherlight summer dresses for thick warm knits. While adding yet another item to your list might seem daunting, we are here to make it easy.

We’ve assembled a few simple tips to help you keep your favorite pieces as clean and polished as the day you first bought them - forever.

Tip #1: Keep It Clean

Dry dirt and grime from holiday gatherings and snow days can easily build up the crevasses of your rings, earrings, bracelets and brooches. All those specks mean that your beloved accessories won’t sparkle like they used to. As always, we recommend that you have your jewelry professionally cleaned and inspected every six months (by the way, it’s free!) but if you are in need of a last-minute fix, use a clean toothbrush gently scrub your jewelry with a paste made from baking soda and warm water. Rinse and repeat as often as necessary.

Tip #2: Yo-Yo Sizing

While you may be inclined to have your ring sized down during the winter months, we caution you not to do so. Frigid temperatures constrict blood flow in your fingers which is why your rings might feel loose. We suggest purchasing a ring guard to keep your jewelry in place. You can also double up with a tighter band on the same finger to prevent them both from sliding off and becoming damaged or lost.

If you are planning to buy a new ring, remember that it may feel tighter when sunnier weather returns. Some rings can be resized but the constant change back and forth from bigger to smaller can put unnecessary pressure on the metal which can cause it to crack or warp over time.

Tip #3: Layer with Caution

’Tis the season for sweaters! With all the extra sweatshirts, waffle knits and scarves, you run the risk of snagging your favorite clothing on clasps, gemstones and textured metals endangering your clothes and your jewelry. Keep that in mind and be careful when you are getting dressed or undressed. Try to leave your valuable accessories at home (in a safe!) if you plan to spend time skiing, hiking or doing any other activities outdoors. And while it may be seem okay, don’t submerge your jewelry in hot tubs or spas either.

Now is an excellent time have your jewelry cleaned, inspected and appraised in one of our stores. Our team of experts will help you keep your favorite pieces in the best shape possible. 

Photos courtesy of Hearts On Fire. Follow them on Instagram with @heartsonfireco.