The Kiwi summer is approaching hot and fast. The long sunny days, salty sea air and road trips to the beach. It’s our favourite time of the year here at Meaden, but your jewellery may not agree. Sun, sand, saltwater, and sweat can do a number on even the prettiest rings, necklaces, and earrings. A few simple tips from our team will keep your pieces looking their best while you enjoy the summer.
The Ocean and Pools Are Not Your Jewellery’s Friends
We’re lucky enough in New Zealand to be surrounded by the coast line. On hot, sunny days, this is bliss, however, your rings may not enjoy it. Saltwater can dull metals, weaken settings, and if you are not careful, send your favourite ring straight into the Pacific. We recommend not wearing your jewellery in the ocean, and swimming pools too. Chlorine in pools can also be harsh on gold and platinum. Our advice would be to keep your jewellery in a small pouch while swimming. Let the sea swim and your jewellery can sunbathe.
Sunscreen Can Make Jewellery Cloudy
Slip, slop, slap and wrap but take your jewellery off first! We love sunscreen on the skin, but not on jewellery. It will stick to your pieces and can leave a sticky film on diamonds and gemstones. Our advice? Apply sunscreen first, let it soak in, then put on your jewellery. Give your pieces a quick wipe-down every few wears. A little soap and water goes a long way.
Sweat, Humidity, and Heat Can Cause Tarnish
Summer heat brings more sweat, and sweat brings natural oils and salts. This can cause tarnish, especially on silver. Humidity can make gold look less shiny than usual. At Meaden we recommend that you wipe your jewellery with a soft cloth after wearing it. Store it somewhere cool and dry. Think of it as a mini holiday for your pieces when you are not wearing them.
Sand Can Be Abrasive
Beach days are amazing, but sand can scratch metals, scratch softer gemstones, and get stuck in settings. It’s best to take jewellery off for beach sports, digging in the sand, or any hands-on adventures. Your jewellery will thank you.
Post Summer Check Up
By the end of summer, it is worth giving your jewellery a check. Sunscreen, sand, salt, and heat can loosen claws and dull metals.
At Meaden, we can clean, polish, replate white gold, and check settings to make sure everything stays secure. This is a little TLC after your jewellery’s summer adventures.
Your jewellery is made to be worn, not tucked away, however, a few simple habits will help you enjoy the sun, sand, and surf without worrying about your favourite pieces.
Bring your pieces into Meaden for a professional clean, polish, or check up and make sure they stay in top condition. Contact our team today for any question or further information.