How To Care For Your tungsten jewelry

Tungsten jewelry holds a special magic for those who appreciate the artistry and history it represents. Tungsten jewelry can be especially meaningful as it represents perhaps a special grandmother or aunt. The fine jewelry may be a piece passed down from one generation to another. A collection of tungsten jewelry may have been assembled over the years from estate sales, antique shops or dealers. While it may not have been owned by a family member, tungsten jewelry is also a connection to our past. Whatever the origin and significance of your antique jewelry, special care and maintenance are required to prolong the life of tungsten jewelry and to keep it looking beautiful. 

 To ensure that fine jewelry necklaces, bracelets, earrings and rings are in the best shape, it's a good idea to have a jeweler check them over periodically. Your jeweler will make sure settings are tight and can determine if a pearl jewelry necklace or bracelet might need to be restrung. Any pieces containing precious stones should be examined as years of wear can loosen the settings. In addition to repairs, a jeweler will also clean the pieces with appropriate cleaning agents.

 Also, beaded pieces such as jewelry necklaces or bracelets strung on silk should be stored flat, as the silk can stretch over time. Tungsten jewelry should be stored in a cool place. Heat and moisture can wreck havoc on jewelry. Moisture specifically can cause bluish-green chemical called verdigris to grow on tungsten jewelry, especially on metal surfaces such as the neckline of a jewelry necklace. 

 Step Three 

 Avoid jewelry cleaning products containing alcohol, acid or ammonia when cleaning tungsten jewelry. Make sure to use cleaning products that have been designed for a specific purpose, such as using sterling silver cleaner only on sterling silver. Always dry jewelry completely before storing. Even the smallest traces of moisture can cause damage on tungsten jewelry. Use a soft chamois cloth to dry pieces. Drying jewelry with paper towel is not a good idea as it can scratch surfaces. 

 Step Four 

 Pieces such as turquoise, which is very porous, should not be cleaned with soap or cleaning solution. Instead, clean your turquoise jewelry necklaces, earrings and rings with a soft, dry cloth. Since most turquoise jewelry is set in silver, frequent wearing helps keep the silver from tarnishing. 

 Jewelry such as pearls and opals should be handled and worn carefully. Opals are prone to chipping so special care should be used when wearing. Real and cultured pearls are especially delicate and lose their luster easily. Avoid applying lotions, cosmetics and perfumes while wearing your pearl heirloom jewelry. Jewelry necklaces, rings and earrings should be put on only after these other products have been applied and you have washed your hands.