Monsoon jewelry care: Tips for keeping your ornaments safe
As monsoon arrives, it brings much-needed freshness and lush greenery. However, it also presents challenges due to the high humidity. One such issue is the tarnishing, rusting, or damaging of jewelry robbing it of its beauty and luster. Aditya Modak, co-founder/director, Gargi by PN Gadgil & Sons, shares tips on caring for different types of jewelry during the monsoon.
Gold jewelry
"Gold is relatively less susceptible to corrosion and tarnishing, but it's not immune to the effects of humidity," says Modak. He suggests cleaning your gold pieces regularly with a soft cloth to remove dirt and avoid using harsh chemicals. You can opt for mild soap and water. "Store your gold jewelry in a cool, dry place. Consider using anti-tarnish strips or pouches," he adds.
Silver jewelry
"Silver jewelry is highly prone to tarnishing, especially during the monsoon when humidity levels are high," tells Modak. "Regularly polish your silver pieces with a soft, lint-free cloth," he adds. Additionally, you can store your silver jewelry in airtight containers or zip-lock bags to prevent exposure to moisture. You can also use anti-tarnish strips or chalk in your storage containers to absorb moisture.
Pearl jewelry
Pearls are delicate gemstones that require special care, and monsoons can be harsh on them. "Keep your pearls away from water as much as possible as it can damage their surface. If your pearls come into contact with water, gently wipe them with a soft, damp cloth," he states. Store pearls in a soft pouch or separate compartments to avoid scratching.
Costume jewelry
"Costume jewelry often incorporates non-precious metals and materials, making it more susceptible to damage during the monsoon," mentions Modak. He shares that one should avoid getting costume jewelry wet, as it may cause the metals to rust. He also encourages people to store them in a cool, dry place, and consider wrapping each piece individually in tissue paper to prevent scratching.
Gemstone jewelry
Modak believes that gemstone jewelry requires special attention during the monsoon, as some stones are porous and can absorb moisture, leading to discoloration and damage. "Clean gemstone jewelry with a soft, damp cloth, and avoid using harsh chemicals," he recommends. He also says that they should be stored away from sun exposure and moisture. "Inspect them periodically to check for damage," he concludes.
