Don't Be Fooled by the Shine: 10 Things You Should Never Do With Your Gold
Gold. It's a timeless symbol of wealth, beauty, and enduring value. From intricate jewelry to shimmering bars, gold has captivated humanity for millennia. But despite its reputation for strength, gold isn't invincible. To keep your gold looking its best and lasting a lifetime, there are some key things you should avoid.
Taking Your Gold for a Chemical Dip
Gold may be a precious metal, but it's not immune to the harsh realities of household cleaners. Chlorine, a common disinfectant in swimming pools and bleach, can wreak havoc on your gold jewelry. Chlorine can weaken the metal, causing it to become brittle and prone to breakage. It can also cause discoloration, leaving a dull or greenish cast on your once-sparkling gold.
The same goes for many harsh chemicals found in everyday cleaning products. Abrasive cleaners, ammonia, and even some hand soaps can dull the finish of your gold and damage delicate settings for gemstones.
Making Gold Your Everyday Gym Buddy
While gold jewelry can add a touch of glamour to your workout outfit, it's not the ideal training partner. Weightlifting, intense cardio, or any activity that involves strenuous movement can put undue stress on your gold. This can lead to scratches, dents, or even broken chains.
Not only can strenuous activity damage your gold, but sweat and oils from your skin can build up on the metal, making it dull and lifeless.
Letting Your Gold Take a Sunbath (or a Hot Shower)
While a little sunshine might brighten your day, it's not so kind to your gold. Excessive exposure to sunlight can cause some gemstones to fade or lose their brilliance.
Similarly, extreme heat can damage certain gemstones and weaken the structure of your gold jewelry. This means taking off your gold rings and bracelets before jumping in the hot tub or showering with scalding water.
Storing Your Gold Like a Pack Rat
Just like you wouldn't throw all your diamonds in a dusty drawer, proper storage is crucial for your gold. When not being worn, your gold jewelry should be kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Ideally, each piece should be stored in a separate compartment or pouch to prevent them from scratching each other. Fabric-lined jewelry boxes or anti-tarnish pouches are great options to keep your gold looking its best.
Cleaning Your Gold with the Wrong Tools
Keeping your gold clean is important, but using the wrong cleaning methods can do more harm than good. Avoid using harsh brushes or abrasive cleaners, as these can scratch the surface of your gold.
For everyday cleaning, a mild dish soap diluted in warm water and a soft cloth are your best bets. For heavily soiled pieces, a professional jeweler can provide a thorough cleaning without risking damage.
Forgetting You Have Insurance
Even with the best care, accidents happen. A cherished gold necklace could get lost, or a ring might get snatched. Having proper insurance for your valuables will give you peace of mind, knowing you'll be compensated for any loss or damage.
Falling for Get-Rich-Quick Schemes with Your Gold
Gold has a stable and enduring value, but that doesn't mean every investment opportunity involving gold is legitimate. Be wary of schemes that promise astronomical returns on your gold or pressure you to invest quickly.
Do your research, understand the risks involved, and only deal with reputable companies when buying or selling your gold.
Going Solo When Selling Your Gold
If you're looking to part ways with your gold, resist the urge to head straight to the nearest pawn shop. Pawn shops typically offer much lower prices than reputable gold buyers.
Get quotes from several different buyers, including jewelers, coin dealers, and online marketplaces specializing in gold.
Not Knowing Your Gold's Karat
The karat (abbreviated as kt) indicates the purity of your gold. 24kt gold is the purest form, but it's also very soft and not ideal for jewelry. Most gold jewelry is a combination of gold and other metals, resulting in lower karats (like 18kt or 14kt).
Knowing the karat of your gold is important when selling it, as buyers will base their offer on the gold's purity.
Forgetting the Emotional Value
While this blog post focuses on the physical care of your gold, it's important to remember the sentimental value it might hold. A gold necklace passed down through generations or a ring that holds special memories deserves extra care and consideration.
By following these tips, you can ensure your gold stays beautiful, treasured, and a source of enjoyment for years to come.
