You clean your closet seasonally. You get your car serviced once a year. But when’s the last time you gave your jewelry the same kind of TLC?

Most of us don’t think twice about our jewelry once we’ve bought it—especially if we wear it all the time. But just like anything else you use regularly, jewelry needs maintenance. The good news? It’s not hard. With just a little effort each year, you can keep your favorite pieces looking brand-new for a lot longer.

Here’s your yearly jewelry maintenance checklist—easy, practical, and totally worth bookmarking.

1. Deep Clean Your Most-Worn Pieces
Everyday jewelry collects sweat, lotion, perfume, dust, and even skin cells. Gross, right? Over time, all that grime can dull your stones and fade your metal’s shine.
At least once or twice a year (though more often is even better), give your jewelry a gentle but deep clean. You can:

• Use a soft toothbrush, mild soap, and warm water for most metals and stones

• Use a jewelry cleaning cloth for gold, silver, and plated items

• Avoid harsh chemicals, toothpaste, or baking soda—these can scratch or damage finishes
  If a piece has delicate stones or intricate settings, take it to a jeweler for a pro-level clean.

2. Inspect for Loose Stones or Prongs
This is a big one—especially for rings, bracelets, and anything with settings. Over time, metal can bend, loosen, or wear thin, which means your stones might be at risk of falling out without you even noticing.
What to do:

• Check prongs and bezels for looseness by gently running your finger over them

• Shake the piece lightly near your ear—if you hear a rattle, something’s probably loose

• If you spot movement, take it to a jeweler ASAP before the stone is gone for good

3. Look for Tarnish and Discoloration
Even high-quality metals can tarnish over time, especially sterling silver, brass, and gold-plated pieces. Moisture, air, and skin oils are the main culprits.
Here’s how to handle it:

• Clean tarnished silver with a polishing cloth or silver dip (follow the label!)

• Avoid abrasive materials—they’ll strip plating or damage finishes

• If the tarnish is deep or the plating is worn off, ask your jeweler about replating or refinishing
  Pro tip: store pieces in airtight bags or anti-tarnish cloths to slow oxidation

4. Replace Missing Backings and Clasps
Tiny components like earring backs, necklace clasps, and jump rings can loosen or go missing over time—especially if you're throwing pieces in a travel pouch or drawer without organizing.
Once a year:

• Match up all your earrings and replace missing backs

• Test clasps for strength—if they’re sticky or loose, have them repaired

• Consider upgrading to more secure backings or magnetic clasps if you’ve had issues in the past

5. Re-Evaluate Your Jewelry Box
You know that necklace you swore you'd wear all the time but haven't touched in a year? Yeah, it's time to re-think your rotation.
Take this chance to:

• Donate or sell what you’re no longer wearing

• Organize your collection by type, color, or frequency of use

• Add in new pieces that fill styling gaps or match your current taste
  You’ll wear your jewelry more if it’s easy to access and reflects your current style

6. Check Chain Integrity and Tension
Chains—especially dainty ones—can stretch, twist, or even break from daily wear. You might not notice until it’s too late.
Each year, give your necklaces and bracelets a once-over:

• Untangle any knots

• Check for kinks or weak spots in the chain

• Gently test tension near the clasp and along high-friction points
  If the chain feels brittle or stretched out, it might be time for a replacement or repair

7. Restring Your Beaded or Pearl Jewelry
Pearls and beads are often strung on silk or nylon, which can stretch and fray over time. If your necklace looks uneven or has gaps between beads, it’s time to restring.
A jeweler can do this for you—and while they’re at it, they can re-knot between pearls to keep them from rubbing together and getting scratched

8. Schedule a Professional Checkup
If you’ve invested in fine jewelry, or have a sentimental heirloom piece, it’s 100% worth taking it in to a jeweler for an annual checkup. Think of it like a health check—for your sparkle.
A jeweler can:

• Test diamonds and stones for authenticity

• Inspect settings and metal wear

• Clean everything thoroughly without damage

• Offer repair or customization options
  Many local jewelers offer free checkups, so it’s worth popping in even if you’re not planning to buy anything new

Final Word
A little routine care goes a long way when it comes to jewelry. Just like skincare or self-care, your pieces deserve a moment of attention now and then. These check-ins don’t just keep your collection looking fresh—they also save you money on repairs or replacements down the line.
So take a day, lay out your collection, and give your jewelry the attention it deserves. Your sparkle will thank you.