Jewelry Isn’t Indestructible—Here's Why

Jewelry Care & Repair Guide: How to Prevent Damage and Find a Trusted Jeweler

Fine jewelry is designed to be worn and enjoyed, but it is not indestructible.

Gold can scratch.

Sterling silver can bend and tarnish.

Prongs can wear.

Clasps can weaken.

Gemstones can loosen.

And even diamond—the hardest naturally occurring mineral—can chip or fracture if struck in a vulnerable direction.

Whether you own a David Yurman Cable bracelet, an engagement ring, a gemstone pendant, an heirloom ring, or a gold chain worn every day, proper care can help preserve both appearance and structural integrity.

This guide explains:

Common types of jewelry damage

Warning signs that need attention

How to store jewelry safely

How to clean jewelry appropriately

When professional inspection makes sense

Common jewelry repairs

How to choose a trusted repair professional

Special considerations for designer jewelry

Why Fine Jewelry Requires Care

Precious materials are durable, but durability does not mean immunity from wear.

Jewelry may be exposed every day to:

Skin oils

Sweat

Cosmetics

Perfume

Moisture

Household chemicals

Desk surfaces

Countertops

Clothing

Other jewelry

Physical pressure

Repeated movement

Over time, these exposures can change both the appearance and structure of a piece.

Normal Wear vs. Jewelry Damage

Some change is normal.

Examples include:

Fine surface scratches

Patina

Minor sterling-silver tarnish

Light wear on high-polish surfaces

Normal clasp wear

These do not automatically indicate a serious problem.

Other signs deserve closer attention:

Loose stones

Bent prongs

Broken clasps

Deep cracks

Thinning metal

Chipped gemstones

Distorted settings

Fractured chains

A ring that suddenly changes shape

The goal is to distinguish ordinary wear from a developing structural issue.

Common Types of Jewelry Damage

1. Worn, Bent, or Broken Prongs

Prongs are the small metal components that help secure gemstones.

They can gradually wear down through:

Daily friction

Impact

Snagging clothing

Repeated contact with hard surfaces

Improper repair

Long-term use

Warning Signs of Prong Problems

Watch for:

A stone that moves

Snagging

Uneven prongs

A visible gap

A missing prong

A rough or sharp edge

A tilted gemstone

A loose stone should be evaluated promptly.

GIA notes that bent or broken prongs can leave a diamond more exposed to chipping and can allow the stone to become loose in its setting.

2. Thin or Cracked Ring Shanks

The shank is the lower portion of a ring band.

It can wear thinner over time, particularly on jewelry worn every day.

Possible contributing factors include:

Years of friction

Repeated resizing

Metal loss from previous polishing

Pressure

Bending

Prior repairs

Warning Signs

Look for:

Visible thinning

Flattening

Hairline cracks

A weak or flexible feeling

An uneven bottom section

A ring that repeatedly goes out of round

A weakened shank should be repaired before it breaks completely.

3. Bent or Misshapen Jewelry

Rings, cuffs, bracelets, hoop earrings, and thin chains can become distorted.

Common causes include:

Heavy lifting

Exercise

Sleeping in jewelry

Accidental pressure

Closing a drawer or door on jewelry

Dropping an item

Improper storage

Bent metal may also change the pressure placed on a stone or clasp.

4. Surface Scratches

All precious metals can scratch.

Gold, platinum, and sterling silver all show evidence of wear with use.

Fine scratches are often normal.

Deep scratches, gouges, dents, or excessive surface loss are different.

Should Every Scratch Be Polished Out?

No.

Frequent or aggressive polishing removes small amounts of metal.

Over time, repeated refinishing can:

Soften edges

Reduce engraving depth

Alter texture

Change proportions

Weaken hallmarks

Remove intentional oxidation

For collectible or designer jewelry, conservative refinishing is usually preferable.

5. Chipped or Damaged Gemstones

Gemstones vary greatly in durability.

Hardness describes resistance to scratching.

It does not necessarily describe resistance to breaking.

GIA explains that gemstone durability includes hardness, toughness, and stability. A stone may resist scratching but still chip or fracture from impact.

Can Diamonds Chip?

Yes.

Diamond is extraordinarily hard, but it is not impossible to break.

GIA notes that diamonds have cleavage directions where their atomic structure is more vulnerable, and a sufficiently hard strike can cause chipping or fracture.

Areas at higher risk can include:

Girdles

Sharp corners

Points

Exposed edges

Existing chipped areas

Some inclusions near vulnerable edges

Gemstones That Require Additional Care

Examples may include:

Emerald

Opal

Tanzanite

Pearl

Turquoise

Certain treated gemstones

Fracture-filled stones

Soft or porous materials

The correct care method depends on the exact gemstone.

6. Loose Gemstones

A stone can loosen even when nothing looks obviously broken.

Reasons may include:

Prong wear

Impact

Metal movement

Setting wear

Long-term use

Previous repair

A Simple Warning Sign

If you can feel or hear a stone move, stop wearing the jewelry until it can be examined.

Do not repeatedly test it by pushing or twisting the gemstone.

7. Worn Clasps and Hinges

Bracelet and necklace clasps are mechanical components.

They can eventually wear.

Look for:

Loose closures

Weak springs

Bent tongues

Worn lobster clasps

Gaps

Loose hinges

Safety catches that no longer engage

For heavier jewelry, clasp integrity is especially important.

8. Chain Wear

Chains can develop wear at:

Links

Solder joints

Clasp connections

Bail attachments

High-friction areas

A worn link may look stretched, thin, or distorted.

Repairing one weak area early can help prevent a complete break later.

How to Prevent Jewelry Damage

Remove Jewelry During High-Risk Activities

It is generally wise to remove fine jewelry before activities involving impact, chemicals, or heavy pressure.

Examples include:

Weightlifting

Gardening

Home repairs

Heavy cleaning

Swimming

Contact sports

Handling machinery

Moving furniture

Some cooking tasks

These activities can expose jewelry to forces it was never designed to withstand.

Should You Sleep in Jewelry?

For many pieces, removing jewelry before sleeping is the safer habit.

Sleeping in jewelry may increase:

Chain tangling

Clasp stress

Prong snagging

Earring pressure

Bracelet distortion

Wear on delicate components

Simple sturdy pieces may tolerate it better than delicate or gemstone-set jewelry, but routine removal reduces unnecessary wear.

Can You Shower With Fine Jewelry?

It depends on the piece, but removing jewelry is generally safer.

Showers can expose jewelry to:

Soap film

Shampoo

Conditioner

Hard-water deposits

Residue

Moisture trapped in settings

Some gemstones and finishes also have specific water or chemical sensitivities.

Can You Swim With Jewelry?

It is generally best to remove fine jewelry before swimming.

Pools may expose jewelry to chlorine.

Ocean water adds salt and movement.

Cold water can also cause fingers to shrink slightly, increasing the chance that rings may slip off.

Store Jewelry Separately

Storage is one of the easiest ways to reduce unnecessary damage.

Useful options include:

Soft pouches

Individual compartments

Lined jewelry boxes

Separate chain storage

Anti-tarnish storage for appropriate silver pieces

Avoid piling jewelry together.

Diamonds can scratch other gemstones and can even scratch other diamonds.

Keep Jewelry Dry Before Storage

Do not put damp jewelry directly into enclosed storage.

Allow the piece to dry thoroughly first.

Moisture can contribute to:

Tarnish

Residue buildup

Corrosion of some components

Damage to certain organic or porous materials

How to Clean Fine Jewelry Safely

There is no single cleaning method that is appropriate for every piece.

The correct method depends on:

Metal

Gemstone

Treatment

Plating

Oxidation

Enamel

Pearls

Leather

Construction

Condition

A Common Method for Durable Diamond Jewelry

For many uncomplicated diamond-and-precious-metal pieces, GIA recommends warm water, mild soap, and a soft toothbrush, followed by careful rinsing and drying.

However, that does not mean this method should automatically be used for every gemstone.

Use the Most Delicate Material as Your Guide

If a piece combines sterling silver with:

Pearls

Turquoise

Emeralds

Leather

Black rhodium

Intentional oxidation

Enamel

Treated gemstones

clean according to the most sensitive component.

Cleaning Products to Approach Carefully

Avoid assuming the following are universally safe:

Baking soda

Toothpaste

Household abrasives

Bleach

Strong acids

Chemical silver dips

Alcohol

Ammonia

Ultrasonic cleaners

Steam cleaners

Different jewelry materials respond very differently.

Are Ultrasonic Cleaners Safe?

Sometimes.

But not for everything.

GIA notes that some diamonds can be cleaned ultrasonically, while other stones and certain jewelry conditions may require gentler methods.

Ultrasonic cleaning can be risky for:

Fracture-filled stones

Loose settings

Heavily included gemstones

Some treated gems

Porous gemstones

Certain delicate constructions

When uncertain, use conservative cleaning or ask a qualified professional.

How Often Should Fine Jewelry Be Inspected?

There is no universal schedule that fits every piece.

Inspection frequency depends on:

How often it is worn

Setting style

Gemstone type

Age

Condition

Previous repairs

Activity level

Value

A ring worn every day with multiple prongs may justify more frequent checks than a pendant worn several times a year.

GIA recommends having diamond jewelry professionally cleaned and reexamined periodically rather than prescribing one mandatory interval for every item.

When Should You Get Jewelry Inspected Immediately?

Seek professional evaluation if:

A stone moves

A prong breaks

A clasp will not close properly

The ring becomes misshapen

You see a crack

A chain link stretches

A gemstone chips

A piece receives a hard impact

A setting suddenly looks uneven

Waiting can allow a small problem to become a larger one.

Common Fine Jewelry Repairs

Prong Retipping

Worn prongs can sometimes be rebuilt to restore security around a gemstone.

Stone Tightening

A loose stone may be tightened by adjusting or rebuilding its setting.

The appropriate technique depends on the setting and gemstone.

Ring Shank Repair

A worn or cracked shank may sometimes be:

Soldered

Reinforced

Partially replaced

Fully reshanked

The repair depends on how much metal has been lost.

Ring Resizing

Some rings can be resized.

Others may be difficult or inappropriate to alter because of:

Pavé stones

Continuous patterns

Mixed metals

Cable construction

Eternity designs

Gemstone placement

Alternative materials

Always evaluate the specific piece first.

Chain Repair

Broken chain links may be repaired or replaced depending on construction.

Some intricate designer chains require specialized experience.

Clasp Repair

Clasp service may involve:

Adjustment

Spring replacement

Component replacement

Rebuilding worn areas

Replacing the entire clasp

Gemstone Replacement

Missing or damaged gemstones can sometimes be replaced.

For designer jewelry, matching:

Size

Cut

Color

Setting style

Original appearance

can be especially important.

Polishing and Refinishing

Professional refinishing can improve appearance, but it should be performed thoughtfully.

More polish is not always better.

Rare, retired, vintage, or textured designer jewelry may lose character through aggressive refinishing.

Special Care for Designer Jewelry

Designer jewelry can require more than ordinary bench-repair experience.

Brands such as:

David Yurman

John Hardy

LAGOS

may use distinctive:

Textures

Cable structures

Oxidation

Mixed metals

Special clasps

Proprietary-looking design details

Complex pavé

Gemstone configurations

Why Improper Designer-Jewelry Repair Matters

An inappropriate repair may:

Alter dimensions

Damage hallmarks

Remove oxidation

Change texture

Use visibly mismatched metal

Distort Cable construction

Replace components incorrectly

Reduce collector appeal

For rare or retired pieces, preserving original design characteristics can be especially important.

Should Designer Jewelry Always Go Back to the Manufacturer?

Not necessarily.

The best choice depends on:

Brand

Repair type

Age

Whether the manufacturer still services the design

Cost

Availability of parts

Collectibility

Whether independent work may affect future manufacturer service

For some modern pieces, manufacturer service may be preferable.

For older or discontinued jewelry, a highly experienced independent specialist may sometimes be more practical.

How to Find a Trusted Jeweler for Repairs

A good repair professional should inspire confidence through process and transparency rather than promises.

Look for Relevant Experience

Ask whether the jeweler regularly works with:

Fine jewelry

Precious metals

Gemstones

Pavé

Antique jewelry

Designer jewelry

The specific brand you own

A jeweler who does excellent bridal repair may not necessarily specialize in an unusual David Yurman mixed-metal cuff.

Ask About the Repair Process

Before leaving the piece, ask:

What work do you recommend?

Why is it necessary?

Will the repair change the original finish?

Will any stones be removed?

Will heat be used?

Will the item be polished?

How will the jewelry be documented at intake?

Will I receive a written estimate?

Ask About Insurance and Liability

Confirm how jewelry is protected while it is:

At the store

With an outside repair shop

In transit

The exact insurance arrangement varies by business, so ask rather than assume.

Get a Written Intake Description

For important pieces, useful intake documentation can include:

Brand

Metal

Gemstones

Condition

Visible damage

Ring size

Weight if appropriate

Existing engraving

Photos

Repair requested

This helps reduce misunderstandings.

Photograph Your Jewelry Before Repair

Take clear photographs of:

Front

Back

Hallmarks

Gemstones

Clasps

Existing scratches or damage

This creates a useful reference before work begins.

Read Reviews With the Repair Type in Mind

A jewelry store may have excellent reviews for sales but little repair experience.

Look specifically for comments regarding:

Bench work

Stone setting

Resizing

Antique repair

Designer jewelry

Communication

Problem resolution

Professional Organizations and Directories

Membership or credentials are not a guarantee of perfect work, but professional organizations can help you identify established jewelers.

The American Gem Society currently provides searchable tools for finding member jewelers, appraisers, and industry professionals. AGS states that its mission includes consumer protection, ethical business practices, education, accreditation, and professional standards.

Use directories as a starting point—not as a substitute for evaluating the individual repair professional.

What About GIA Credentials?

GIA provides education and gemological training.

A professional may hold GIA credentials such as Graduate Gemologist.

That can demonstrate gemological education.

But being a GIA graduate does not automatically mean someone is an expert bench jeweler.

Gemology and jewelry repair are related but different skill sets.

For repair work, look for both relevant technical repair experience and appropriate gemological knowledge when the piece requires it.

Red Flags When Choosing a Repair Jeweler

Be cautious if someone:

Cannot explain the proposed repair

Refuses to provide documentation for a valuable item

Dismisses concerns about gemstones or finishes

Wants to polish everything automatically

Has no experience with the construction involved

Cannot explain whether work is performed in-house or outsourced

Makes unrealistic guarantees

The repair professional should be able to explain what will happen to your jewelry.

Is Pre-Owned Jewelry More Fragile?

Not automatically.

“Pre-owned” describes ownership history.

A well-maintained older piece can be structurally excellent.

A recently purchased piece can still become damaged.

Evaluate:

Condition

Previous repairs

Metal wear

Stone security

Clasps

Hinges

Age

Construction

rather than assuming pre-owned means fragile.

Does Patina Mean Jewelry Needs Repair?

No.

Patina is often cosmetic.

Sterling silver may naturally darken.

Some jewelry also has intentional oxidation.

Structural damage is different from surface aging.

Can Tarnish Damage Sterling Silver?

Ordinary tarnish is generally a surface issue.

Overly aggressive cleaning can sometimes cause more harm than the tarnish itself, particularly on designer jewelry with intentional darkened details.

Does Polishing Reduce Jewelry Value?

It can in certain situations.

Heavy polishing may remove metal or alter:

Hallmarks

Sharp edges

Engraving

Texture

Original finishes

Patina

Collectible character

For rare or older jewelry, ask before refinishing.

Should Antique or Retired Jewelry Be Restored?

Not automatically.

Sometimes restoration improves wearability.

Sometimes preserving original condition is more important.

Before modifying rare or discontinued designer jewelry, consider:

Historical character

Original components

Collector interest

Repair necessity

How much original material will be changed

Frequently Asked Questions About Jewelry Care and Repair

Can diamonds chip?

Yes.

Diamond is extremely hard but can chip or fracture from sufficiently strong impact, particularly at vulnerable edges or cleavage directions.

How often should jewelry be professionally inspected?

There is no one schedule for every piece.

Frequently worn gemstone jewelry should be checked periodically, with more frequent attention if the setting is delicate or the piece receives heavy use.

Should I sleep in fine jewelry?

Removing jewelry before sleeping generally reduces unnecessary strain, snagging, and wear.

Can I use dish soap on jewelry?

Mild soap and warm water can be suitable for many uncomplicated diamond and precious-metal pieces, but not every gemstone or finish should be cleaned the same way.

Is sterling silver durable?

Yes, but sterling silver can scratch, tarnish, bend, and wear over time.

Does pre-owned jewelry require more maintenance?

Not necessarily.

Maintenance depends on the individual piece and its condition.

Should I repair a loose gemstone immediately?

Yes.

Stop wearing the item until the setting can be evaluated.

Is every jeweler qualified to repair designer jewelry?

No.

Look for experience with the brand, construction, metals, finishes, and gemstones involved.

Should jewelry always be polished during repair?

No.

Polishing should be based on the condition and goals for the piece.

Can a jewelry repair affect collector value?

Potentially.

Heavy modification, replacement of original components, aggressive polishing, or alteration of signature details can affect collector appeal.

Caring for Certified Pre-Owned Designer Jewelry

At AYW Luxury, we specialize in Certified Pre-Owned David Yurman jewelry and select other designer pieces.

Pre-owned jewelry can remain beautiful and wearable for many years when buyers understand:

What the piece is made from

What condition it is in

How it should be cleaned

Which finishes should be preserved

When a repair is necessary

How to store it correctly

Proper care helps preserve both craftsmanship and usability.

AYW Luxury Assurance

Certified Pre-Owned

Valuation Report Included

Complimentary U.S. Shipping

7-Day Returns

Specialists Since 2017

Final Thoughts: Jewelry Is Durable, Not Indestructible

Fine jewelry is made to be worn.

That does not mean it should be treated as indestructible.

The best long-term care usually comes down to a few principles:

Avoid unnecessary impact.

Store pieces separately.

Clean according to the materials involved.

Pay attention to loose stones and worn components.

Repair structural problems promptly.

Avoid excessive refinishing.

Choose repair professionals with the right experience.

A small amount of preventative care can help preserve a piece for years—and sometimes for another generation.

Luxury jewelry should not spend its life hidden away because of fear of damage.

It should be worn thoughtfully, maintained appropriately, and repaired carefully when necessary.

Shop Certified Pre-Owned David Yurman Jewelry

Read the Pre-Owned David Yurman Jewelry Authenticity, Value & Buying Guide