TIPS FROM THE BENCH

• Keep jewelry clean.
  
  
• Have diamonds and gemstones checked once or twice a year or any time you damage the setting.
  
  
• If your jewelry is causing discoloration of your skin or a rash, or if the jewelry itself is discoloring it is most likely caused by an interaction with perfumes, hand creams, etc. and is rarely the cause of the metal itself.
  
  
• White gold is weakened by chlorine so don't ever wear this jewelry in swimming pools or when cleaning.
  
  
• Please don't test pearls with your teeth. This will only damage the nacre or outer shell of the pearl. If you are not sure of the quality of your pearls, ask a jeweler.
  
  
• Opals are not only somewhat fragile upon impact but they can also be damaged by extreme temperatures, including hot or ice cold water.
  
  
• Don't pull out the stem of your watch to conserve your battery. This exposes your movement to harmful dust and moisture.