If you have antique jewelry that has been passed down, you probably cherish the beautiful heirlooms and only wear them on special occasions. We often find that many men and women that own antique jewelry are too afraid to wear it.
We are here to tell you there is no need to fear your jewelry! In fact, we encourage you to wear your precious pieces! Just like any piece of jewelry, there are a few do’s and don’ts before you wear your heirloom.
Wearing your Antique Jewelry:
Inspection
When wearing your heirloom jewelry, be sure to get it inspected often. With age, prongs can become loose. Getting your jewelry inspected at least once a year can help tighten any loose stones before they fall out.
Fittings
Whether your fine jewelry was passed down from your grandmother or mother-in-law, chances are the size will be different. We always recommend getting your high-end rings or bracelets fitted before wear. Having your jewelry properly sized before wear can reduce the chance of that piece falling off and getting lost.
Storage
When your jewelry is not being worn, it’s important to store your jewelry in a specified jewelry box. This can reduce the amount of dust that cakes on your heirloom. It can also reduce the risk of an accidental mishap—such as a pet or child getting ahold of the piece.
What Not to Do When Wearing Antique Jewelry:
When wearing your heirloom jewelry, it’s important to sure you do not do the following:
- Wear while exercising: When exercising, oils and sweat can cake on your fine piece which can damage any heirloom. It also increases the risk of getting snagged or lost which can be detrimental to anyone with an antique.
- Wear while showering: Shampoos and soaps contain chemicals which are fine for our bodies and skin, but can cause damage to fine jewelry.
- Wear while moisturizing: Similar to soaps, lotions can often cake inside the crevices of a fine antique. To eliminate this risk, be sure to remove your fine jewelry before moisturizing.
- Wear while swimming: Whether you are visiting the beach or hitting the pool, water can cause finger size to shrink. Especially in the ocean, tides and currents can rip a loose ring right off and would be near impossible to find.
All in all, we encourage those who own antique jewelry to flaunt it! Heirlooms should be worn and last for generations to love, cherish, and enjoy. If you own antique jewelry and are located in the Boston area, we would love to see you. We offer a variety of services such as repair and maintenance of fine jewelry so you can ensure it will last for years to come.
To schedule an appointment, give our store a call or stop in and see us! (617) 423-7464.
