Why Jewelry Inspection Is Necessary

• Precious metals can shift easily; regular inspections prevent lost stones or broken chains.
• Gemstone jewelry should be checked every six months to ensure gems remain securely set.
• Wear and tear: Frequently worn jewelry is prone to metal erosion; our inspection helps you spot issues early.

Jewelry Cleaning at Home

While it's best to bring your jewelry to A. T. Thomas Jewelers for professional cleaning, there are moments when you might need to clean it at home. However, not all materials are safe for at-home cleaning. For instance, pearls, coral, ivory, and other organic materials should not be exposed to harsh detergents or liquids, as they can absorb moisture and cause irreversible damage.

We offer an in-store jewelry cleaner for safe home cleaning. Our cleaner is designed to gently and effectively maintain the brilliance of your fine jewelry without risking damage. Visit us to purchase a cleaner that ensures your pieces remain sparkling and well-cared for between professional cleanings.

Jewelry Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid

Some materials should never be cleaned at home or with ultrasonic cleaners. Fragile stones like emeralds, opals, and turquoise can be damaged by harsh cleaning methods, while antique and rare jewelry may lose its patina and integrity if polished incorrectly.

• 1. Avoid cleaning organic materials like pearls, coral, and wood at home.
• 2. Don’t polish antique or rare jewelry as it may destroy its original finish.
• 3. Keep coins away from abrasive polishing; take them to a professional coin shop.
• 4. Porous gemstones like emerald and opal should be handled with care, avoiding detergents.

Polishing Precious Metals

For maintaining your jewelry's shine at home, you can use a jeweler's rouge cloth or a velvet cloth. These soft cloths, available from your local jeweler, are designed to polish gold and silver without damaging the stones or metals. Just make sure to store the cloth in a dust-free bag to prevent scratches during future use.