Did you know you can actually make jewelry mistakes while wearing your favorite pieces? I’ve seen quite a few jewelry trends come and go in my life: those long owl necklaces, statement pieces made out of what felt like pounds of fake gemstones, and countless rings that left green discoloration on my skin. Admittedly, it’s taken a while to find my personal style when it comes to jewelry.
Once I did figure out what suits me best, I realized it’s worth investing in higher-quality pieces that will (hopefully) last a lifetime. But over the years I’ve learned the hard way that taking good care of my jewelry doesn’t stop with taking it off in the evening; it’s also in the way I wear it. Recently I had to have a ring repaired, and my jeweler gave me some tips. According to him, there are several jewelry “mistakes” his customers—including me—often make.
Here are seven things to avoid when wearing jewelry:
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1. Wearing watches and bracelets together on the same arm
Arm jewelry, like bracelets and bangles, makes a nice addition to a watch. However, there is one thing you should bear in mind: It’s best not to wear these accessories on the same arm. Even if it looks nice to combine your watch with a matching bangle, you’re not doing your jewelry any good in terms of longevity. If the bracelet and watch rub against each other, scratches can occur very quickly. That’s why it’s best to wear your bracelet on one side and your watch on the other.
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2. Exposing rings to too much wear
Rings on your fingers can make your hands eye-catchers (especially when combined with a colorful manicure). But the same applies here as the rule above: Wearing several rings next to each other can quickly lead to scratches. Incidentally, scratches can also occur when clapping. So before you go to your next concert, think carefully about whether you should leave your very favorite piece of jewelry at home, or at least wear your rings on separate fingers. Heavy loads can also damage your rings. I once broke a delicate piece during a long trip because I had to carry my suitcase up and down several flights of stairs. My lesson: Either travel with very light luggage, or stow the rings safely from the outset.
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3. Wearing watches too loosely
When I tried on a watch a few months ago, I was surprised at how tightly the jeweler fitted it on my wrist. Of course, you should still feel comfortable, and the watch strap shouldn’t be constricting, but wearing a watch too loosely can actually harm it. If it’s not fitted, the weight of the watch is constantly pulling on the strap, which will eventually break. What’s more, a loose watch will easily slip back and forth on your arm—and you’ll bump it into the nearest door frame if you’re not careful. (Unfortunately, I speak from experience.)
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4. Wearing rings too high
While this common jewelry mistake likely won’t lead to any major damage, it’s a bit of a fashion faux pas. Traditionally, rings should sit up a few millimeters from the knuckle, where they’re most likely to stay put without restricting blood flow or sliding around, just waiting to bump into doorframes or other jewelry. Rings should take a bit of effort to pop over your knuckle; this way they’re less likely to fall off as you’re, say, in the middle of your morning commute or washing your hands. (If you’re stacking rings, feel free to disregard this rule—rest them at different parts of each finger to create some visual intrigue.)
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5. Putting on jewelry before makeup or skin care
Jewelry reacts sensitively to various environmental influences, including sweat, humidity, and chemicals. It’s no secret that you shouldn’t wear your favorite pieces while cleaning, swimming, or gardening. But you should also use caution when applying serums or perfume if you want to enjoy your jewelry for a long time. Gold and silver jewelry can quickly become discolored by skin care and styling products, and pearls are also extremely sensitive to them. If you, understandably, don’t want to do without body lotion, hairspray, or hand cream, put on your jewelry after you’ve completed your morning routine to be on the safe side. Of course, jewelry is still an accessory that you should experiment with and have fun with. Just because you might risk a scratch doesn’t mean you have to leave your favorite pieces at home all the time. But I have also learned that taking good care of your jewelry and wearing it carefully prevents damage. And no piece of jewelry really deserves that—not even the huge statement necklace at the bottom of my jewelry box waiting for its return to the fashion trend cycle.
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6. Wearing watches on the right wrist
Most people are right-handed, and we rely on our dominant hand for just about every little task: opening doors, adjusting bags, waving hello, grabbing wallets. Therefore, wearing a watch on your left wrist is a smart styling choice, leaving your investment piece less prone to scratches, bumps, and other wear and tear. Plus, this placement makes it easier to adjust the dial. Lefties, meanwhile, should wear their watches on the right wrist for the exact same reasons.
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7. Not investing in long-haul pieces
Sure, it’s a bit of a cliché, but it holds true: The best way to ensure you’ll get the most use out of your jewelry is to invest in pieces that you’ll want to wear and that are crafted to last. Solid gold, sterling silver, and gold vermeil are much more durable than gold plating. Natural and lab-grown diamonds are sturdy enough to hold up to everyday wear, with gems like sapphire and moissanite right behind them. (Cubic zirconia tends to scratch and cloud after a few years of wear.) You don’t need to spend a ton to build your jewelry capsule wardrobe; many of my favorite affordable jewelry brands, including Pandora and Ana Luisa, offer great value.
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