Amanda Gizzi: Hi I am Amanda Gizzi with Jewellery Information Center. And I'd like to discuss some basic tips for caring for your jewelry.

Fine jewelry is a precious possession that's designed and crafted to last a lifetime. However, proper care is required to assure the lasting qualities of your jewelry.

I am here to provide you some simple, basic guidelines for the care and cleaning of your fine jewelry, let's begin.

First be sure to store your jewelry in clean, dry place when it's not being worn. Fabric lined jewelry cases, boxes with compartments and dividers are good options. And in home safe is strongly recommended for your irreplaceable jewelry.

Try to avoid removing your rings to wash your hands, especially when in a public place. Jewelry left on the brim of a sink can easily slip down the drain or worse get left behind.

Avoid wearing your jewelry when cleaning. The chemicals in the cleaners can damage the metal and the gem stones. If you have an active lifestyle, take extra precautions with your jewelry. Some type of gem stone jewelry, emeralds for example are brittle and should not be worn when doing household chores or any activity where stone could be hit or damaged.

Apply all cosmetics, perfume and colognes before putting on your jewelry. Hairspray, perfume and perspiration may cause jewelry to become dull. Make sure to wipe your jewelry after wear to remove any chemicals, oils or perspiration.

See your jeweler at least once a year to have your jewelry checked for loose prongs, worn mountings and general wear and tear. You should visit your jeweler every six months to have your jewelry professionally cleansed.

In between your visits to your jeweler clean your jewelry at home using a mixture of mild soap and warm water. Lastly don't forget to get your jewelry insured; you can do this through your homeowners insurance or through an independent company such as Jewelers Mutual Insurance Company. Remember these tips and you will keep your jewelry looking its best.