What to avoid (perfumes, lotions, swimming)

Why some things and your jewellery don't mix

Your jewellery is made to be worn and enjoyed, but there are a few everyday things that can cause tarnish, discolouration or damage over time. Knowing what to avoid is just as important as knowing how to clean and store your pieces. The good news is that none of this is complicated. It's just a few small habits.

Perfumes and lotions

Perfumes, body lotions, suncream and makeup can all leave residue on your jewellery. Over time, this build-up can dull the surface of silver, sea glass and semi-precious stones. Some chemicals in these products can also react with the metal and speed up tarnishing.

The simple fix? Put your jewellery on after you've applied your lotions and perfumes, and let them settle into your skin first. Think of jewellery as the finishing touch, not the first step.

Water and swimming

It's best to remove your jewellery before bathing, showering or swimming. Chlorine in swimming pools can react with silver and cause permanent damage. Salt water can be just as harsh, and even fresh water can speed up tarnishing if your pieces are left damp.

If you're heading to the beach or the pool, leave your jewellery safely stored at home or in your jewellery box. Your pieces will thank you for it.

Sleeping

It can be tempting to sleep in your favourite pieces, but wearing jewellery overnight puts unnecessary stress on chains, settings and clasps. You're also more likely to catch pieces on bedding or scratch softer materials against each other. Removing your jewellery before bed is a simple habit that extends the life of your pieces.

Cleaning products

Household cleaning products, bleach and harsh chemicals are not friends of your jewellery. If you're cleaning the house, doing the dishes or using any strong chemicals, take your rings and bracelets off first. Even brief exposure to some cleaning agents can cause discolouration.

A quick checklist

• Put jewellery on after perfumes, lotions and makeup.
• Remove pieces before bathing, showering or swimming.
• Take jewellery off before bed.
• Remove rings and bracelets before using cleaning products.

The takeaway

None of this is about being precious with your jewellery. It's about a few small habits that keep your pieces looking beautiful for years. Put jewellery on last, take it off first, and keep it away from water and chemicals. That's really all there is to it.