Sparkle All Summer: 7 Essential Tips to Care for Your Fine Jewellery in the Warmer Months

Summer is the season of sunshine, seaside escapes, and outdoor adventures—but it can also be tough on your fine jewellery. From harsh chemicals to sticky sunscreen, the elements can dull the brilliance of even your most treasured pieces. With just a little extra care, you can keep your jewellery sparkling and in pristine condition all season long.

Here are 7 essential summer care tips for your fine jewellery:

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1. Keep Jewellery Away from Sunscreen and Lotions

While sunscreen is a summer must, it’s not friendly to jewellery. Oils and chemicals in SPF products and body lotions can leave a residue on metals and gemstones, causing them to appear cloudy or dull.

Tip: Apply sunscreen and let it fully absorb into your skin before putting on your jewellery.

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2. Avoid Wearing Jewellery in Pools or Hot Tubs

Chlorine and other pool chemicals are particularly harsh on fine metals like gold and platinum, and they can weaken prongs and settings over time. Saltwater isn’t much better—it can corrode metals and etch softer stones.

Tip: Remove all jewellery before taking a dip in the pool or ocean.

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3. Clean Your Jewellery Regularly (and Gently)

Sweat, sunscreen, and summer dust can build up quickly. Clean your jewellery at least once a week during summer with a mild soap and warm water solution. Use a soft toothbrush to gently scrub around settings.

Tip: Avoid ultrasonic cleaners for delicate stones like opals, pearls, or emeralds, which can be damaged by vibration or heat.

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4. Store Jewellery Safely While Traveling

Tossing your jewellery into a toiletry bag might save space, but it also invites scratches, tangling, or even damage. When travelling, store pieces individually in a soft-lined travel jewellery case or in small pouches.

Tip: Use anti-tarnish strips in your case to help keep silver pieces looking bright.

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5. Avoid Harsh Chemicals (Even the Ones in Your Garage)

Summer often means more time outdoors—gardening, fixing up the house, or even working on your car. Household and garage chemicals like bleach, ammonia, or acetone can permanently damage both metals and gemstones.

Tip: Always remove rings and bracelets before using any cleaning or industrial products.

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6. Keep Jewellery Out of Direct Sunlight

Some gemstones like amethyst, topaz, and pearls can fade or become brittle when exposed to prolonged direct sunlight. Heat can also weaken adhesives used in certain settings.

Tip: Store your jewellery in a cool, shaded place when not in use—preferably in a soft-lined box or pouch.

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7. Have It Professionally Checked Before and After Summer

Climbing, hiking, and beach adventures can loosen prongs or damage clasps. It’s a good idea to have a jeweller inspect your pieces before and after summer to ensure stones are secure and settings remain intact.

Tip: Ask your jeweller to professionally clean your pieces at the same time for that like-new sparkle.

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Final Thought:

Your fine jewellery is meant to be worn and enjoyed—but summer brings some special challenges. With these thoughtful care tips, you can enjoy every moment of sunshine and still keep your jewellery looking as brilliant as ever!