How to keep your jewels safe in the Summer.

The warm summer weather has finally arrived in Northern Alberta, and I couldn't be happier! But while you’re soaking in the rays, it’s important to remember that some gemstones and metals don't like the sunshine as much as we do. So here are some ways you can protect your jewels, prevent damage and ensure they last a lifetime.

Sun Exposure

Some stones will lose their pigment, or dry up with prolonged exposure to sun. Rose Quartz, and Amethyst are two of the main gems that will have this happen, but expect it from any Quartz based stones. Clear Quartz can turn yellow and lose clarity in direct sunlight. If your stone is losing pigment quickly with little exposure to sun, it may mean it has been dyed and unfortunately there is no way to stop the pigmentation loss.

Opals are, in my experience, the most finicky gems when it comes to light and temperature. For this reason, almost all of the opals we offer are Welo Opals! Our Welo Opals, like any opal, will dry up with prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, but you can submerge them in water and the water absorption will revive the stone. On the opposite end of the spectrum they can also freeze easily due to their water content. But have no fear, I've left opal jewelry in a freezing car all winter and they've come right back to life after thawing.

Water

No matter what, water will cause tarnish. While it can be an easy fix, we recommend that you take your jewelry off before showering, bathing or even washing your hands, and especially when swimming in a chlorinated pool! Water can also sometimes cause stones to become loose in their settings, which eventually results in the stone falling out. Another thing to consider when spending time near the water this summer, cold water can cause your fingers to shrink causing rings to fall off.

Exposing your gems and jewels to chlorine can cause irreparable damage to your jewelry. Chlorine causes discoloration to silver, gold, and even platinum! It also can remove the finish and polish of your stones. If your jewelry comes into contact with sand, chlorinated or salt water it is important that you clean it as soon as you can!

Other Summer Product Exposure

The Peace Country is beautiful in the summer, but the bugs are unbelievable! Something to know if you often use bug spray, it can cause your jewelry and stones to become dull. If you do spray your jewels with bug spray, be sure to clean them as soon as you can. The same goes for sunscreen as it can build up a film on your jewelry. Polishing cloths really come in handy for a quick clean to get rid of grease and grime.