The Gilded Jewelry Guide

As summer’s golden days fade into crisp autumn afternoons, it’s the perfect time for a little seasonal reset — and that includes your jewelry. Between sunscreen, salty sea air, and sandy beach days, summer can leave its mark on your favorite pieces. Before you trade sundresses for sweaters, set aside a moment to give your jewels the care they deserve.

Why a Seasonal Jewelry Reset Matters

Even with the best intentions, lotions, sprays, salt, and heat can dull metals and cloud gemstones over the summer months. A seasonal clean-and-check routine not only restores their sparkle but also prevents small issues (like loose prongs) from turning into costly repairs.

Do’s & Don’ts for End-of-Summer Jewelry Care

1. Give Your Pieces a Gentle Deep Clean

• At home: Soak jewelry in warm water mixed with a drop of mild dish soap, then gently scrub with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Rinse and pat dry with a lint-free cloth.
• Buy your own ultrasonic jeweler cleaner to keep them shining bright on your own. Bonus is that it’s super easy and fun to see them sparkle any time you feel like adding that extra shine! Check out this one that we recommend (affiliate link)! https://amzn.to/4lyW8mq
• Pro tip: Nothing beats a professional cleaning from your jeweler. They can polish away buildup and give you safe, specific advice for your gemstones and metals.

2. Store Smart for the Off-Season

• Keep seasonal favorites in a dry, temperature-controlled space.
• Use a fabric-lined jewelry box with dividers to prevent scratches.
• Store necklaces flat with clasps closed to avoid tangling.
• For heirlooms or high-value items, consider a safe or safety deposit box.

3. Inspect Before You Store

• Check for loose stones, bent prongs, or worn clasps.
• Have your jeweler inspect settings under magnification — a single loose prong can mean the loss of a gemstone.

The takeaway: A little seasonal maintenance goes a long way toward keeping your jewelry beautiful for decades. By cleaning, storing, and inspecting your pieces at the end of each season, you’ll ensure they stay sparkling, secure, and ready for every new chapter.

(*This article contains affiliate links)