Winter is magical for showing off new jewelry, but cold weather comes with a few things to watch out for.
First, fit matters. Cold temperatures can make fingers shrink, so rings that feel perfect now may become loose. When warmer weather returns, the opposite happens and a tight ring can become uncomfortable. A simple winter fix is adding a temporary ring coil or ring guard, or sizing beads to take up a bit of space until spring.
Be extra mindful when washing and drying your hands. Cold fingers can feel numb, and looser rings are more likely to slip off. We have sadly heard many stories of rings getting wrapped in paper towels and accidentally thrown away. Always check before tossing anything in the trash.
The same caution applies when removing gloves. Rings can slide off unnoticed and disappear into snowbanks or parking lots in seconds. A quick glance at your hand before and after glove removal can save a lot of heartbreak.
Lastly, protect delicate gemstones from extreme temperature changes. Gems like opal, kunzite, tanzanite, emerald, and similar stones can crack, haze, or craze when exposed to a cold blast followed by sudden warmth. Keep these pieces under your coat and insulated, especially necklaces. Zip that coat up, and avoid wearing them directly near fireplaces or heaters right after being outdoors.
~ Julie Terwilliger
