Jewelry Isn’t Indestructible—Here's Why

Jewelry is more than just adornment — it represents milestones, love stories, heirlooms, and investments. Whether it’s a pre-owned David Yurman bracelet, your grandmother’s engagement ring, or a gold chain you wear every day, one thing is true across the board: jewelry is not indestructible.

Despite the value, sentiment, and strength associated with fine jewelry, it’s surprisingly easy to damage if not properly cared for. From worn prongs to cracked shanks and dented metal, everyday habits can cause serious wear and tear over time. If you're looking to protect your favorite pieces and keep them in pristine condition for years (or generations) to come, this guide is for you.

Why Jewelry Requires Regular Care

Think of your jewelry like a car: just because it’s built with strong materials doesn’t mean it can survive without maintenance. While gold, platinum, diamonds, and gemstones are durable, they are not immune to damage. The daily exposure to oils, sweat, lotions, cleaning products, hard knocks, or even just repeated use will eventually take a toll.

Unfortunately, many people believe that fine jewelry is impervious — and that’s where the problems begin. Over time, neglect or improper use can result in:

Loose or lost stones

Cracked or broken bands

Scratched surfaces

Bent prongs or tips

Metal fatigue and thinning

Discoloration or dull finishes

Once damage starts, it can escalate quickly if left untreated. That’s why prevention and regular care are key to keeping your jewelry safe and sparkling.

Common Types of Jewelry Damage (and What Causes Them)

Understanding how jewelry gets damaged is the first step in protecting it. Let’s break down the most common types of jewelry damage and what they mean.

1. Worn or Broken Prongs

Prongs are the tiny metal claws that hold a gemstone in place. Over time, especially in rings worn daily, these prongs can wear down, bend, or even snap off. When this happens, the stone becomes loose and can fall out entirely.

Causes:

Repeated knocks on hard surfaces

Sleeping with rings on

Wearing rings while doing manual labor or heavy lifting

Metal fatigue from years of use

What to Watch For:
If a prong looks shorter than the others, feels rough to the touch, or your stone seems to shift when lightly tapped, it’s time for an inspection.

2. Cracked or Thinned Shanks

The shank is the bottom part of the ring that wraps around your finger. Over time, it can wear thin, crack, or split entirely — especially in older rings or those made with softer metals like gold.

Causes:

Long-term wear without re-sizing or reinforcement

Frequent resizing (which weakens the metal over time)

Accidental pressure or bending

What to Watch For:
If your ring feels weak when you gently press on the band, or if you see a visible line or crack, don’t ignore it. A broken shank can result in the entire ring falling apart.

3. Bent or Out-of-Shape Jewelry

Bracelets, rings, and hoop earrings can easily become bent or misshapen with too much pressure.

Causes:

Sleeping with jewelry on

Wearing pieces during workouts or heavy chores

Dropping them on hard surfaces

What to Watch For:
Bent pieces may not fit properly anymore, and the structural integrity can become compromised, leading to further damage.

4. Scratches and Surface Damage

Even metals like platinum and gold will accumulate scratches and scuffs over time. While some wear is normal, deep scratches or dents can affect both appearance and value.

Causes:

Stacking jewelry pieces together

Contact with rough surfaces

Improper storage

5. Stone Damage and Chipping

Diamonds are incredibly hard, but they can still chip, especially along the edges or pointed areas (like the tip of a marquise or princess cut). Softer gemstones like opals, emeralds, and turquoise are even more vulnerable.

Causes:

Impact with hard surfaces

Wearing while cooking, cleaning, or gardening

Exposure to chemicals

What to Watch For:
Look for cloudy spots, visible chips, or sharp edges on stones that used to be smooth.

How to Properly Care for Your Jewelry

Whether your jewelry is fine, vintage, pre-owned, or custom-made, these care tips will help ensure it lasts for generations.

1. Remove Jewelry During Risky Activities

Take off rings, bracelets, and earrings during:

Exercise or weightlifting

Showering or swimming

Cooking or washing dishes

Cleaning with chemicals

Sleeping

2. Store Jewelry Properly

Jewelry should be stored individually in soft-lined pouches or compartments to prevent scratching and tangling. Avoid tossing pieces in a drawer or letting them pile up in one box.

Tips:

Use anti-tarnish cloths for silver

Keep pieces separated by metal type

Avoid humidity; store in a cool, dry place

3. Clean Jewelry Gently and Regularly

General Cleaning Steps:

Mix mild dish soap with warm water

Soak for a few minutes (avoid soaking porous stones like opals)

Gently brush with a soft toothbrush

Rinse and dry with a soft cloth

Avoid:

Ultrasonic cleaners (unless approved for your stone type)

Harsh chemicals or alcohol

Abrasive brushes or cloths

4. Get Annual Inspections from a Jeweler

Jewelry should be inspected once a year by a professional. They can check for:

Loose stones

Worn prongs or tips

Cracks or thinning metal

Chain or clasp wear

5. Resize and Repair Promptly

If your ring is too tight or too loose, or if something feels off, don’t wait. Prompt resizing and reinforcement will help prevent long-term damage.

How to Find a Reputable Jeweler Near You

When your jewelry needs repair, resizing, or inspection, choosing the right professional is critical. Here's how to find a reputable jeweler you can trust:

1. Look for Credentials and Certifications

Reputable jewelers often belong to:

Jewelers of America (JA)

American Gem Society (AGS)

Gemological Institute of America (GIA)-certified staff

2. Check Reviews and Reputation

Use platforms like:

Google Reviews

Yelp

Better Business Bureau (BBB)

Angi (formerly Angie’s List)

3. Ask the Right Questions

Ask before leaving your piece:

Do you specialize in fine or designer jewelry?

Will you provide a written estimate?

How are stones secured and inspected?

Is the item insured while in your possession?

Can I see examples of similar repairs?

4. Visit in Person

Look for:

On-site repair facilities

Clean, professional workspaces

Staff who are knowledgeable and not pushy

Documentation of your jewelry's condition before intake

5. Use Online Directories

Try these tools:

Jewelers of America Store Locator

American Gem Society Jeweler Finder

GIA Alumni Directory

6. Ask for Referrals

If you’ve purchased jewelry from a trusted retailer like AYW Luxury, reach out to us. We’re happy to refer you to jewelers we trust for repairs and cleanings, especially for David Yurman pieces and other designer brands.

What to Do If Your Jewelry Needs Repair

Damage happens. When it does, act fast and work with a jeweler who understands how to properly repair fine jewelry.

Common Repairs Include:

Prong retipping or replacement

Stone tightening or resetting

Shank repair or reinforcement

Chain soldering or clasp replacement

Polishing and refinishing

Gemstone replacement

When choosing a jeweler, consider:

Do they specialize in fine or designer jewelry?

Are they experienced with vintage or pre-owned pieces?

Do they use a microscope or loupe to inspect and work?

Can they offer you a quote before beginning?


In Summary

Jewelry is beautiful, sentimental, and often expensive — but it’s not indestructible. Even the finest pieces can wear down over time if not treated with care. With regular maintenance, gentle cleaning, safe storage, and prompt repairs, you can keep your jewelry in excellent condition for a lifetime and beyond.

Treat your jewelry like the treasure it is — and it will stay brilliant for years to come.