Milestones

Clasps that don't close securely - If your clasp gets stuck open or stuck closed when you put it on, this is a telltale sign that it's in need of repair. Wearing it without repairing it may lead to losing it entirely.

Discolored knots between pearls - The silk string holding your strung pearls together is in contact with environmental elements as well as body oil, and over time this builds up and shows itself through discolored knots. Not only are these unsightly, but they also leave you vulnerable to potential breakage.

Knots being pulled into drill holes on pearls - If the knots between your pearls slip in and out of the drill holes, this is also a sign that it's time to restring. As the thread stretches and pulls into the drill hole, pearls come in direct contact with each other, which can lead to wear and other damage.

Thinning or bent shank (the part of a ring that rests near your palm) - This is the part of your ring that comes in contact with hard surfaces the most, and if it shows signs of erosion or weakness you should schedule a repair before you wear it again.

You don't properly store your jewelry - Fabric lined jewelry boxes aren't just for show; they serve an essential purpose. Metals can scratch, erode, and fatigue when stored improperly. Silver jewelry, for example, should be stored in tarnish proof cloth where it cannot be exposed to air or moisture. Proper storage is a necessary element of jewelry care for all fine jewelry -- your jeweler can help you identify the best storage options for each piece.

You wear your jewelry while swimming, bathing, or showering - Chlorine, salt water, shampoo, conditioner, and even sunscreen can all wreak havoc on your metals and gemstones. If your jewelry has taken a dip in the backyard pool or you find that you often forget to remove your rings before you get in the shower, you may have unseen damage in need of repair.

For more information on identifying the symptoms that your jewelry is in need of repair, read: When to Repair Jewelry