Winter is here! It’s all about bundling up in cozy scarves, sipping hot cocoa, and tackling the snow. But while you’re pampering yourself with all things warm and fuzzy, let’s not forget your fine jewelry. Yep, your favorite pieces—whether they’re gold rings, gemstone necklaces, or diamond earrings—need a little extra TLC during the colder months.
Winter can be surprisingly harsh on jewelry, from drying out delicate stones to causing tarnishing and wear. But don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. Here’s your ultimate guide to keeping your fine jewelry sparkling through the season.
1. Lotion: A Friend to Your Skin, Not Your Jewelry
Winter air is basically a thief, stealing moisture from your skin and leaving it dry and flaky, especially if you live in Denver, Colorado, like us. While a good moisturizer is your go-to solution, it’s not so great for your jewelry. Lotions and oils can dull gemstones and tarnish metals.
What to Do:
- Hydrate your skin with lotion, but let it fully absorb before slipping on your rings, bracelets, or necklaces.
- Opt for fragrance-free and non-greasy moisturizers to avoid residue buildup.
Pro Tip:
For rings, always ensure your hands are completely dry after moisturizing. Your diamonds deserve to shine without a lotion film dulling their sparkle.
2. Temperature Swings: A Gem’s Worst Nightmare
Winter means darting between the frosty outdoors and toasty indoor heating. While you’re enjoying those extremes, your gemstones might not be. Delicate stones like turquoise and moonstone can expand and contract, leading to cracks or loose settings.
What to Do:
- Swap out delicate gemstone pieces for durable solid gold or platinum ones during extreme weather.
- Store your jewelry in a cool, stable spot—far from radiators, fireplaces, or other heat sources.
Pro Tip:
Love your gemstones? Keep them cozy by storing them in a jewelry pouch when you’re not wearing them. They’ll thank you.
3. Keep It Clean, Babe
Between holiday baking, decorating, and endless snowball fights, your jewelry is exposed to all kinds of grime. A little regular maintenance will keep everything shiny and fabulous.
How to Clean Your Jewelry:
- For gold and sterling silver: Use a soft cloth or a mild jewelry cleaner.
- For gemstones: Stick to warm, soapy water and a soft toothbrush.
- Avoid ultrasonic cleaners for softer stones like opals, emeralds, or pearls—they’re too delicate for that.
Pro Tip:
Be gentle! Scrubbing too hard can scratch metals or loosen stones. Think of it as pampering, not a deep clean.
4. Protect Your Jewelry During Winter Fun
The holidays are packed with activities, from building snowmen to hosting parties. While you’re out there living your best life, make sure your jewelry isn’t at risk.
When to Remove Jewelry:
- Before putting on gloves, Rings can snag or bend.
- During outdoor fun: Snow and ice are enemies of delicate metals.
- While baking, dough, and oils can settle into intricate designs (and no one wants that cleanup job).
Pro Tip:
Keep a small jewelry pouch in your bag for those moments when you need to quickly stash your pieces. Better safe than sorry!
5. Beware of Chemicals
Winter brings hand sanitizers, de-icing salts, and other chemical nasties that can wreak havoc on jewelry. Even your trusty sanitizer can tarnish metals and damage gemstones.
What to Do:
- Take off your rings and bracelets before using hand sanitizer or handling de-icing products.
- If exposure happens, rinse your jewelry with warm water and dry it thoroughly.
Pro Tip:
Invest in 18k solid gold or gold-fill jewelry—they’re more resistant to tarnishing than plated pieces.
6. Store Your Jewelry Like a Pro
Proper storage is a game-changer, especially in winter when humidity and dryness are at their extremes.
How to Store Jewelry in Winter:
- Use anti-tarnish pouches or cloth-lined boxes.
- Store each piece separately to avoid scratches or tangling.
- Keep your jewelry away from humid spots like bathrooms.
Pro Tip:
Add a silica gel packet to your jewelry box—it absorbs moisture and keeps your metals pristine.
7. Layer Smart, Not Hard
Layering necklaces and rings is a winter trend we adore, but it’s a delicate art. Overlap too much, and you risk tangling chains or scratching your pieces.
How to Layer Without Damage:
- Mix chain lengths to prevent tangling.
- Use ring stackers to create space between delicate rings.
Pro Tip:
Pair durable pieces like gold-filled stacking bands with a minimalist ring for a stylish (and safe!) combo.
8. Rotate Your Favorites
Wearing the same jewelry daily can lead to wear and tear—especially in winter. Rotating your pieces not only protects them but also keeps your look fresh.
What to Do:
- Alternate between different rings, necklaces, and bracelets throughout the week.
Pro Tip:
Think of it as outfit planning for your jewelry box. Mixing things up is half the fun!
9. Give Your Jewelry a Winter Spa Day
Winter is the perfect time for a professional check-up. Loose settings or worn prongs can worsen if ignored, and a little maintenance goes a long way.
What to Do:
- Visit a trusted jeweler for a professional inspection and cleaning.
- Get those loose settings tightened and metals polished.
Pro Tip:
At Ashley Schenkein Jewelry Design, we offer expert cleaning and repair services to keep your favorite pieces in shape.
10. Hydrate Your Gemstones
Certain stones, like opals, need moisture to maintain their luster. Dry winter air can be a total buzzkill for these beauties.
What to Do:
- Store moisture-sensitive stones with a damp cotton ball or felt in their container.
- Avoid direct heat sources like radiators or fireplaces.
Pro Tip:
For opals, pearls, and other delicate gems, always consult a professional jeweler (like us!) for tailored care advice.
Final Thoughts: Winter Jewelry Love
Winter might be tough on your skin and wardrobe, but your fine jewelry can shine bright with extra care. Whether it’s daily maintenance, smart storage, or rotating your favorite pieces, these tips will help your jewelry survive the season—and look fabulous doing it.
Need a little extra help? At Ashley Schenkein Jewelry Design, we specialize in fine jewelry care, professional inspections, and custom creations. Visit us online or at our Denver store to explore our collection, refresh your pieces, or design something entirely your own.
This winter, let’s make sure your jewelry sparkles as brightly as you do.
