At Roper’s Jewelers, we know that every piece of jewelry holds more than just aesthetic value; it carries memories, emotions, and milestones. Whether it’s a men’s sterling silver wedding band passed down from a grandfather, a pair of sparkling drop stud earrings from an anniversary, or a gold disc pendant gifted for a special occasion, jewelry is meant to be treasured for years to come. To help your precious pieces stay radiant and wearable for generations, proper care and
maintenance are essential.

Here are some of our top tips to help you extend the life of your jewelry:

 

How to Extend Your Jewelry's Lifespan

 

 

1. Clean Your Jewelry Regularly and Gently

Over time, everyday elements like sweat, lotion, perfumes, and environmental pollutants can dull your jewelry’s shine. Regular cleaning not only restores brilliance but also prevents long-term damage.

For most fine jewelry, a soft toothbrush with a mild dish soap solution is ideal. Simply soak your jewelry in warm, soapy water for a few minutes, gently scrub, rinse thoroughly, and dry with a lint-free cloth. Be especially careful with delicate pieces like drop stud earrings that may have intricate settings or stones.

Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners unless recommended by a professional. Some gemstones, such as opals, are
porous and can be damaged by traditional cleaning methods. If you’re unsure, bring your item into Roper’s Jewelers and let
our expert staff assist you with proper cleaning techniques tailored to your specific piece.

2. Store Jewelry Properly to Prevent Damage

Though you may not have considered it before, how and where you store your jewelry plays a big role in its longevity.  Improper storage can lead to scratches, tangling, tarnishing, and even breakage.

We recommend keeping jewelry pieces in a lined jewelry box or pouch. Ideally, each item should have its own compartment or cloth bag to avoid contact with other pieces. For example, keeping your gold disc pendant stored separately from rings or bracelets can prevent nicks and scratches to its smooth surface.

Sterling silver jewelry, such as a men’s sterling silver wedding band, is particularly susceptible to tarnish. To reduce exposure to air and moisture, store silver in anti- tarnish cloths or bags. A small packet of silica gel or anti-tarnish strips in your jewelry box can also help absorb excess moisture.

3. Be Mindful of When You Wear Your Jewelry

Jewelry is meant to be worn and enjoyed, but some activities can put unnecessary stress on your pieces. Being mindful of when you wear jewelry and when you should take it off can make a significant difference in preserving its integrity.

Avoid wearing jewelry during:

  • Exercise and sports: High-impact movements can bend or snap delicate items, while sweat can speed up tarnishing.
  • Swimming: Chlorine in pools and salt in the ocean can both corrode metals and loosen stones.
  • Household chores: Cleaning products, especially those with bleach or ammonia, can discolor or damage metals and gemstones.
  • Gardening or outdoor work: Dirt, rocks, and tools can scratch and abrade rings, particularly those with stones.

We always suggest removing items like your men’s sterling silver wedding band or dainty drop stud earrings before engaging in these activities to ensure long-term wearability.

4. Schedule Regular Inspections and Repairs

Even the most well-cared-for jewelry needs a little professional attention now and then which is why at Roper’s Jewelers, we offer inspection and repair services to help keep your treasured pieces in top condition. During a routine check-up, we’ll examine clasps, prongs, and settings to ensure nothing is loose or at risk of falling out. For instance, if your gold disc pendant chain is showing signs of wear or your gemstone settings are loose, we can fix these issues before they become
costly problems. Regular maintenance also gives you peace of mind knowing your jewelry is secure and sparkling.

5. Trust a Local Jeweler You Can Count On

Choosing a trusted local jeweler like Roper’s Jewelers Auburn CA means you’ll always have a professional to turn to for advice, maintenance, and repairs. If you need help cleaning your drop stud earrings, want to resize a men’s sterling silver wedding band, or are shopping for your next heirloom, our knowledgeable team is here to help. As one of the most experienced jewelry stores in Auburn CA, we are passionate about helping our customers preserve their cherished jewelry for
generations. We understand that each piece is not only an accessory, but a symbol of life’s most meaningful moments.

Your Beloved Jewelry Store in Auburn, CA – Visit Roper’s Jewelers for Drop Stud Earrings, Wedding Bands & More

With the right care, your favorite jewelry can remain beautiful and meaningful for a lifetime. By following these tips, you’ll protect your investment and keep your pieces looking just as stunning as the day you got them.

If you have any questions or need personalized care advice, call or stop by Roper’s Jewelers today at our Downtown Auburn location at 818 Lincoln Way, (530) 885- 4852 or North Auburn at 2288 Grass Valley Highway, (530) 885-8020. We’d be delighted to help you take care of the jewelry you love.