Spaces

"First, you need stay out of hot tubs and pools with them, as chlorine isn't beneficial to the metal." Second, take your prized ring (or rings) off when you go to bed. "If you wear the ring too much, it will wear down, become malleable and bend easier," says Vandenberg, adding that it's advisable to stick to the adage of putting rings on last and taking them off first. "So, take your rings off at night. They'll last longer." 1 2 TWO THINGS YOU NEED TO DO WITH GOLD RINGS Ring (below) and pendant (right) from Vandenbergs Fine Jewellery Gold While 24-karat gold is coveted, it's not the most durable material because it's pure. Silver wears a lot faster than gold, so any stones set in them won't stay secure for as long. I t seems that most everyone has a piece or two of fine gold or silver jewelry that's worn daily or on special occasions. Certain precautions must be taken to ensure the items — whether they be rings, pendants or other accessories — stay in perfect condition, says Peter Vandenberg of Vandenbergs Fine Jewellery. More care needs to be taken with silver than gold, though both need to be meticulously maintained. "Silver wears a lot faster than gold, so any stones set in them won't stay secure for as long. Know what metals your jewelry is made from; that will make it easier to remember the level of maintenance the different pieces require." In fact, it pays to know what metallic properties your jewelry possesses. While 24-karat gold is coveted, it's not the most durable material because it's pure; gold in the 10- to 18-karat range is much hardier. Consequently, jewelry comprised of gold or silver mixed with alloys tends to last longer. "For example, white gold is stronger and lower maintenance due to the different alloy mixture, though it does have a bit of a greyish coloration to it," notes Vandenberg. "Platinum is tough but scratches easier than gold. It's easier to get scratches out of gold, while silver can discolour but can be dipped to remove any discolorations." If you, a spouse, a friend or a relative has metal allergies, there's a viable alternative to gold or silver: palladium. "Pieces tend to be 95 per cent palladium and five per cent iridium," he says. "Palladium is non-allergenic but not as cheap. It does wear better than gold, though." What's key to making your fine jewelry last a lifetime? Know what type of metal your prized pieces are made of. Treat them with care and stick strictly to proven maintenance guidelines. And never take rings off near a sink or bathtub, where precious jewelry can disappear down the drain in the blink of an eye! Palladium is non-allergenic but not as cheap. It does wear better than gold, though. S P A C E S | 19 PHOTOS BY DARCY FINLEY

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