How to care for precious stones and pearls
Pearls can be easily damaged from contact with chemicals, lotions, or other stones, such as diamonds or gemstones, that have rough edges. And even though diamonds are the hardest natural substance around, they can still be lost or damaged. Below are a few ways you can protect your precious stones and pearls, so that you can enjoy them for years to come.
Precious stones and diamonds
Check clasps and prongs regularly
The majority of jewellery claims involve “mysterious disappearance” of diamonds and other stones, such as when a stone falls out of its setting without you knowing it. To avoid this, ask your jeweller to check the integrity of the clasps and prongs frequently – at least every six months (or more often if you wear the piece a lot).
Use the shake test
Between visits to the jeweller, you can test the prongs on your jewellery yourself. Simply take off your jewellery, hold the stone up to your ear and shake it. If it is loose, you will hear it moving and should get it repaired.
Pearls
Isolate them
Instead of throwing your pearl earrings or ring into a dish with your other jewellery or watches at the end of the day, protect them by storing them separately in pouches made of natural breathing fibres, such as silk or cotton.
Keep them away from lotions, perfumes, or other chemicals
Pearls are vulnerable to damage from chlorine bleach as well as other everyday chemicals found in lotions, perfumes, oils and hairspray. Therefore, always apply hairspray and perfume before putting on pearls and jewellery. Avoid applying too much lotion on the back of your neck if you’re wearing a pearl necklace. And after each wearing, wipe off your pearls with a soft and clean cloth.
Restring them every 2-3 years
To prevent pearl necklace strings from becoming stretched, weakened or soiled, replace them every two to three years. This will prevent breakage and potentially lost or damaged pearls.
If you would like to find out more on how you can protect your jewellery and other valuable possessions, leave your contact details via the ‘Contact Me’ button below and our representatives will get in touch with you.
No part of this article may be reproduced in any written, electronic, recording, or printed form without written permission of Chubb.
Disclaimer - The content of the above article is not intended to constitute professional advice. Although all content is believed to be accurate, Chubb Insurance Singapore Limited (Chubb) makes no warranty or guarantee about the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the content of this article. Users relying on any content do so at their own risk.
Protect your home and valuables
Get a quote online or leave your contact details and our representatives will get in touch with you.