Summer is made for long days by the pool, beach vacations, sunscreen, and time outdoors—but it's also one of the hardest seasons on your jewelry.
The good news? Caring for your fine jewelry doesn't require expensive products or complicated routines. A few simple habits will help keep your pieces sparkling for years to come.
Sunscreen & Lotion Create Buildup
One of the biggest culprits behind dull-looking diamonds isn't the diamond itself—it's everything sitting on top of it.
Sunscreen, lotion, makeup, and even natural oils from your skin create a film that coats your jewelry over time. Diamonds are incredibly good at reflecting light, but when they're covered in residue, they simply can't sparkle the way they're meant to.
Whenever possible, apply your skincare and sunscreen first, allow it to absorb, then put on your jewelry.
Pools & Hot Tubs: Best to Leave Your Jewelry Behind
Chlorine is surprisingly harsh on fine jewelry.
Over time, repeated exposure can weaken gold alloys and potentially damage prongs that hold your diamonds and gemstones securely in place. While one swim likely won't ruin your jewelry, making it a habit can shorten the lifespan of your favorite pieces.
Before jumping into the pool or hot tub, it's always safest to remove your jewelry.
Saltwater & Sand
The ocean may be beautiful, but it's not particularly kind to jewelry.
Saltwater can leave behind residue, while sand is surprisingly abrasive and can scratch softer metals over time. Rings are especially easy to lose when fingers shrink slightly in cool water.
If you're spending the day at the beach, consider leaving sentimental or valuable jewelry at home.
Sweat Happens
Summer activities mean more time outside—and more sweat.
Perspiration mixes with sunscreen, dust, and everyday debris, creating buildup that settles underneath rings, behind earrings, and inside chain links.
That doesn't mean you shouldn't wear your jewelry. It simply means it deserves a quick refresh afterward.
The Easiest Way to Clean Your Jewelry
Skip the expensive jewelry cleaners.
For most solid gold jewelry with diamonds, warm water, a tiny drop of Dawn dish soap, and a soft toothbrush work beautifully.
Simply:
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Fill a small bowl with warm water.
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Add a small squeeze of Dawn dish soap.
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Gently brush your jewelry, paying extra attention to the backs of rings, underneath stones, and the inside of settings where buildup hides.
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Rinse with clean water if needed.
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Pat dry with a soft towel and allow your pieces to air dry completely.
You'll be amazed at how much sparkle returns.
A Few Things to Avoid
This simple cleaning method is wonderful for solid gold jewelry with diamonds, but it isn't right for every piece.
Avoid using this method on:
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Pearl jewelry
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Opals
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Turquoise
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Emeralds
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Most demi-fine or fashion jewelry
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Jewelry that is gold plated or gold vermeil
These materials often require gentler care.
Don't Forget Professional Cleanings
Even with great at-home care, your jewelry benefits from professional inspections.
At least once a year, have your pieces cleaned and checked to ensure prongs remain secure, clasps are functioning properly, and stones stay safely in place.
A quick inspection can prevent losing a treasured diamond down the road.
A Little Care Goes a Long Way
Fine jewelry is meant to be worn—not tucked away in a jewelry box.
With just a few simple habits, your favorite pieces can continue looking as beautiful years from now as the day you first put them on.
If you're ever unsure how to care for a specific piece, we're always happy to help.