Professional maintenance: what a jeweler checks and how often

Some tasks cannot be done at home. A regular check costs little and prevents losing a stone or a piece.

Checking settings and prongs #

Once a year, especially for everyday rings: prongs wear down and the stone can loosen. A jeweler tightens them and, if needed, rebuilds them.

Re-plating white gold #

Rhodium plating wears and lets the yellowish tone of the gold show. It can be renewed every year or two, depending on wear.

Polishing and scratches #

A professional polish restores shine and softens surface scratches, although it removes a little metal, so it should not be repeated often.

Clasps, chains and pearls #

Check clasps and links: a loose clasp is the most common reason for losing a piece. Restring pearls every few years if you wear them often.

Appraisal and insurance #

If you own valuable jewelry, update the appraisal every few years for insurance and keep your certificates.

See also #

• Can you wear jewelry in the shower, pool or sea?
• How to fix a broken chain
• How to clean a diamond ring