Over the years we have seen many jewelry disasters,  most of which may easily have been avoided. While accidents happen, we would like to take the time to help you keep your jewelry in tip-top shape as long as possible. These few tips will help to ensure that you have a long, trouble-free relationship with the jewelry that you love.

Take it off when you shower. By keeping your jewelry off in the shower, you’re able to keep it cleaner longer, and you’re also able to clean the areas in which you wear it. If your jewelry does not come into the shower with you, you’re not getting it covered in shampoo and body wash. You can also be sure to thoroughly clean your hands and ears and anywhere else that your jewelry is worn. Just be sure to put it in a safe place when you’re not wearing it.

Take it off when you sleep. Many people are usually surprised when they hear this one. However, it’s important to give your skin a break. Rings especially, which hug your fingers and don’t give them much room to “breathe.” Taking out your earrings eliminate the possibility of them being pulled out of your ear as you sleep, and necklaces aren’t likely to break as well. Also, the constant practice of taking off your rings eliminates the chance that they will get stuck on your finger. Though some may not want to admit it, as we get older we grow, and fingers may swell. Many people get rings stuck on their fingers and have to get them cut off, and no one likes seeing a piece of jewelry that means a lot to them cut in half! Then there’s the initial period where you skin has to heal before you can have the ring sized to wear it again. Bottom line, take it off!

Take it off when you work out. This again goes for all jewelry, but rings in particular. Rings have been known to get bent out of shape in particular with the use of weights and any other equipment that your fingers wrap around. Necklaces and bracelets aren’t safe either; there’s an endless amount of things they could get caught on in a gym or at home.

When you’re on vacation. This doesn’t always apply, because we understand that you want to show off their jewelry. However, when you’re at the beach for example, most people want to take off their engagement rings and watches. Many women just wear their wedding bands and leave the engagement rings for when they’re off the beach. This also applies for hiking and camping, where jewelry is vulnerable to loss or damage. If you’re staying in a hotel, be sure there is a safe in the room that only you have access to. Nothing ruins a vacation like the theft or damage of a piece you love!

I’m sure that there are countless other occasions in which you should not be wearing your jewelry. With a little good judgment, care, and sometimes luck, you will be enjoying your jewelry for a long time to come.