Did you know you can actually make jewelry mistakes while wearing your favorite pieces? I’ve seen quite a few jewelry trends come and go in my life: those long owl necklaces, “statement” pieces made out of what felt like pounds of fake gemstones, and countless rings that left green discolorations on my skin. Admittedly, it’s taken a while to find my personal style when it comes to jewelry.
Once I did figure out what suits me best, I realized it’s worth investing in higher quality pieces that will last a lifetime (hopefully). But over the years, I’ve learned the hard way that taking good care of my jewelry doesn’t stop with taking it off in the evening. It’s also in the way I wear it. Recently, I had to have a ring repaired, and my jeweler gave me some tips. According to him, there are several jewelry “mistakes” his customers—including me—often make.
So, here are four things to avoid when wearing jewelry….
1.Wearing watches and bracelets together on the same arm
Arm jewelry like bracelets and bangles are popular additions to a watch. However, there is one thing you should bear in mind: It’s best not to wear these accessories on the same arm. Even if it looks nice to combine your watch with a matching bangle, you’re not doing your jewelry any good in terms of longevity. Because if the bracelet and watch rub against each other, scratches that are actually avoidable will occur very quickly. That’s why it’s best to wear your bracelet on one side and your watch on the other.
2. Exposing rings to too much wear
Rings on your fingers can make your hands—especially when in combination with a colorful manicure—an eye-catcher. But the same applies here as the rule above: If you wear several rings next to each other, this can quickly lead to scratches. Incidentally, scratches can also occur when clapping. So before you go to your next concert, think carefully about whether you should leave your favorite piece of jewelry at home or at least wear the rings on separate fingers. Heavy loads can also damage your rings. I once broke a delicate piece during a long trip because I had to carry my suitcase up and down several flights of stairs. My lesson? Either travel with very light luggage, or stow the rings safely in it from the outset.
3. Wearing watches too loosely
When I tried on a watch a few months ago, I was surprised at how tightly the jeweler fitted it on my wrist. Of course, you should still feel comfortable and the watch strap shouldn’t be constricting, but wearing a watch too loosely can actually harm it. If it’s not fitted, the weight of the watch is constantly pulling on the strap, which will eventually break. What’s more, a loose watch will easily slip back and forth on your arm—you’ll bump it into the nearest door frame if you’re not careful. Unfortunately, I speak from experience.
4. Putting on jewelry before make-up or skin care
Jewelry reacts sensitively to various environmental influences, including sweat, humidity, and chemicals. It’s no secret that you shouldn’t wear your favorite pieces while cleaning, swimming, or gardening. But you should also use caution when applying skin cream or perfume if you want to enjoy your jewelry for a long time. Gold and silver jewelry can quickly become discolored by care and styling products, and pearls are also extremely sensitive to them. If you, understandably, don’t want to do without body lotion, hand cream, or hairspray, then put on your jewelry after you’ve completed your morning routine to be on the safe side.
Of course, jewelry is still an accessory that you should experiment with and have fun with. Just because you might risk a scratch doesn’t mean you have to leave your favorite pieces at home all the time. But I have also learned that taking good care of your jewelry and wearing it carefully prevents damage. And no piece of jewelry really deserves that… Not even the huge statement necklace at the bottom of my jewelry box waiting for its return to the fashion trend cycle.
A version of this article was previously published in Vogue Germany.
The post Common Jewelry Mistakes: I Wore My Jewelry the Wrong Way for Years, Until a Jeweler Told Me This appeared first on Glamour.
