Jewellery care 101: How to protect your pieces during the monsoon

Rain might set the mood, but your jewellery doesn’t share the sentiment. Moisture, humidity, and pollution don’t just dull the shine; they can loosen settings, cause tarnishing, and damage delicate stones. That doesn’t mean you need to stop wearing your favourites until the skies clear. It just means learning to wear, store, and clean them wisely. From everyday studs to festive chokers, here’s how to keep your jewellery looking its best this monsoon.Humidity is the real problem It’s not the rain; it’s the moisture in the air that causes damage. Silver, uncut stones, and anything antique can get tarnished, rusted, or just lose their shine. Easiest fix? Store everything in a dry spot, and throw in a few silica gel packets or charcoal pouches to soak up the humidity.Use zip-locks or pouches Each piece deserves its own space. A zip-lock bag or soft pouch protects it from moisture, scratches, and tangling, especially helpful for chains or stone-studded jewellery.Wrap heirlooms properlyOlder pieces of jewellery featuring enamel, kundan, or intricate detailing need extra attention. Wrap them in muslin cloth or acid-free tissue before storing to avoid chemical reactions and keep them in pristine condition.Put jewellery on last If you're using perfume, hairspray, or makeup setting spray, do all of that before you wear your jewellery. These products leave a layer on your pieces that dulls the finish over time.Wipe it down after wearing At the end of the day, gently wipe your jewellery with a soft cloth before storing it.. This removes sweat, oil, or grime and helps maintain its sparkle. A small habit with a lasting impact.Pearls and silver need extra care Don’t seal pearls in plastic; they need to breathe. Use a soft cloth pouch instead. Silver tends to tarnish quickly during this season, so keep it with anti-tarnish strips or polish it once in a while with a silver cloth.Keep a pouch in your bagIn case you get caught in the rain, carry a soft-lined pouch in your bag. You can quickly remove rings or earrings to protect them. Most jewellery isn’t rainproof, and frequent exposure can lead to lasting damage.Get a professional cleanupThe monsoon is a perfect time to visit your jeweller. Settings can loosen and clasps may weaken without your knowledge. A quick professional checkup can prevent a lost stone or broken chain down the line.Inputs by: Tiara Dhody, Founder of Treasures by Tiara.