Top tips for keeping your jewellery safe and sound

Jewellery

Throughout history, in times of upheaval people have turned to precious metals and stones to 'store' their assets.
The value of jewellery has always been relatively secure - and it's usually easy to carry, if you have to leave in a hurry.
But regardless of price, jewellery is special because it looks great, glittering around your neck or shown off to proud friends like only a priceless engagement ring can be.
And, of course, it's what the jewellery says about your relationships that can matter most - some jewellers believe they can tell the strength of a person's marriage on the cleanliness of their wedding ring.

The obvious problem is that our most precious possessions are so easy to lose, have stolen or drop down a hole. That's often at least as much of a sentimental loss as a financial one - but at least jewellery cover will help recoup some of the costs.
Here are our recommendations for keeping your jewellery safe and looking fabulous.

• 1. Think carefully about where you're going, not just your destination (theatre, restaurant, party) but getting there and home again (car park, late-night tube, quiet back-street). Consider carrying your jewellery in a purse or pocket, only putting it on to dazzle once you arrive.



• 2. The best cleaning kit is warm water, mild soap (for example eco-friendly washing-up liquid), a soft-bristled toothbrush and a soft cloth. Leave the items soaking in soapy water for a few minutes first.



• 3. There are many specialist cleaning products and techniques (ultrasonic, steam-cleaning, ammonia-based and ethyl-alcohol) but these have risks attached with certain types of jewellery. If in doubt, ask a professional.



• 4. Always make sure your jewellery is insured for its correct value. Despite their long-term security as assets, the prices of jewellery and similar items like watches do fluctuate.



• 5. If a piece is particularly valuable, remember to declare it on your insurance schedule. MORE TH>N insures personal jewellery items as standard in our home contents insurance policy, up to £1,500 for each item. Items worth more than this need to be declared individually.



• 6. Try not to expose jewellery to perfume and hairspray, which can tarnish it. If you wear perfume, put it on before you put on your jewellery and leave a small amount of time in between.

If you find yourself in a situation where you're uncomfortable with people seeing your jewellery, adjust it to attract less attention. If your ring has a large stone, swivel it around so the stone is 'underneath' your hand. If you have necklaces on, put them underneath your clothing until you feel safer.