Jewelry Care Basics

* Store your jewelry in a clean, dry place.

* Keep your jewelry in a fabric-lined jewelry case, or in a box with compartments and dividers. If you prefer to use ordinary boxes, wrap each piece individually in soft tissue paper.

* Don't jumble your jewelry pieces in a drawer or jewelry case. Pieces can scratch each other.

* Be careful when removing your jewelry to wash your hands. Do not leave your diamond ring or jewelry on the rim of a sink where it can easily slip down the drain.

* See your jeweler at least once a year to have your diamond ring, earrings or other jewelry checked for loose prongs, worn mountings, and general wear and tear. Visit your jeweler every six months to have your jewelry professionally cleaned.

* There are many types of small machines on the market that will clean jewelry in a matter of minutes using high-frequency sound. These machines are called "ultrasonic cleaners" and are available in many different models and prices. They can be a convenient way to quickly clean your jewelry at home. However, ultrasonic cleaners can damage some jewelry. Your local jeweler can tell you if an ultrasonic cleaning machine is right for your jewelry wardrobe and, if it is, recommend an appropriate model.