Tips for Protecting Your Jewelry During Cold Weather

When the temperatures drop, most of us think about bundling up in cozy layers and keeping our skin moisturized. But did you know that winter weather can also affect your jewelry? From lotions to gloves, to the dry air of the season, your cherished pieces face unique challenges during the colder months. At Lamon Jewelers, we want to help you keep your treasures looking as brilliant as the day you received them. Here are some essential tips for protecting your jewelry in the wintertime, plus advice on when to bring it in for a professional cleaning and checkup.

1. Be Mindful of Lotions and Creams

During cold weather, most of us use heavier lotions and hand creams to fight off dry, itchy skin. While that’s great for your hands, it can be tough on your jewelry. Creams can build up on the surface of rings and bracelets, dulling their shine and causing gemstones to look cloudy.

What to do:

  • Apply lotions before putting your jewelry on, and allow them to absorb into your skin fully.
  • Keep a polishing cloth handy for a quick wipe-down if lotion accidentally transfers onto your pieces.
  • Remember that buildup over time can make settings slippery, which increases the risk of rings sliding off in the cold.

2. Jewelry and Gloves Don’t Always Mix

Pulling gloves on and off in the winter is second nature, but it can be dangerous for your jewelry. Rings, especially those with raised settings, can catch on the fabric and loosen prongs. Even worse, snug gloves can pull rings right off without you noticing, especially when your fingers shrink slightly in colder weather.

What to do:

  • If possible, remove rings before putting on gloves to avoid snagging and accidental loss.
  • Store them safely in a small travel pouch or ring box in your bag if you’re out and about.
  • Opt for fitted, smooth-lined gloves rather than wool or knit styles that can easily snag.

3. Dry Winter Skin and Loose Rings

Cold weather often causes fingers to shrink and skin to dry out. This not only makes rings feel looser, but also increases the chance of accidental slipping.

What to do:

  • Ensure your rings are the right size for all seasons. In the Summer, our rings feel tighter, and in the Winter, they feel looser. Let one of our team members help you determine the perfect size for all seasons to minimize the chance of it falling off.
  • If your rings spin or feel too large, consider a temporary ring guard until the weather warms back up.
  • Keep your hands moisturized, but apply cream sparingly around jewelry-wearing fingers.

4. Cold Weather Cleaning Tips

Even with the best care, winter can leave your jewelry looking a little lackluster. Lotion buildup, trapped lint from gloves, and residue from dry skin can all collect in the crevices of your favorite pieces.

At-home cleaning tips:

  • Use a soft toothbrush, mild dish soap, and warm water to gently clean most fine jewelry.
  • Pat dry with a lint-free cloth and let your jewelry air dry fully before wearing.
  • Avoid harsh cleaners, toothpaste, or anything abrasive—they can scratch metals and damage gemstones.
  • Never soak porous stones (like pearls, opals, turquoise, or emeralds); instead, gently wipe them with a damp cloth.

5. When to Bring Jewelry in for a Professional Checkup

Winter is actually the perfect time to schedule a professional cleaning and inspection. Daily wear combined with winter conditions can loosen prongs, weaken clasps, and leave your favorite pieces less secure.

Bring your jewelry in if you notice:

  • A gemstone that seems loose or wobbly in its setting.
  • A clasp on a bracelet or necklace that feels weak or doesn’t close securely.
  • Rings that slide off too easily in the cold.
  • Jewelry that looks dull, cloudy, or refuses to sparkle even after at-home cleaning.

At Lamon Jewelers, our expert jewelers will carefully inspect your settings, tighten prongs, and professionally clean your jewelry to restore its brilliance. Many customers are amazed at how radiant their pieces look after a deep professional polish. Plus, a seasonal checkup gives you peace of mind knowing your jewelry is safe and secure for the holidays and beyond.

Your jewelry is meant to be enjoyed year-round, but every season brings its own care challenges. In winter, dry air, heavy lotions, gloves, and shrinking fingers can all take a toll on your treasured pieces. With a few simple precautions—like removing rings before applying lotion or slipping on gloves—you can protect your jewelry from unnecessary wear and tear. Stop by anytime this season for a complimentary jewelry inspection, cleaning, or expert advice. With the right care, your jewelry will shine as brightly as the winter snow.