Care & Cleaning

Earring Posts
Sometimes the backs of ear posts are hard to slip on.  If you experience this problem, bring your James Avery ear posts to one of our stores.  We will be happy to adjust them so that the backs will slide on easily, but be tight enough to keep your earring secure.

If you do lose an earring designed by James Avery, remember to simply take the remaining earring to one of our stores.  If it is a piece in our current active line, you can purchase another pair for one half the cost of the new pair, plus the remaining earring.  Diamond earrings are not covered under this policy.  However, if the design is available, you may order one only to replace a lost or damaged earring.

Ear Hooks
The wire used on dangling earrings is lightweight in order for earrings to be put on and taken off easily.  This causes the wire to be somewhat soft, so a gentle touch is necessary.  To avoid stress and/or breakage, take care to bend the wire as little as possible.  If one does break, it can be replaced for a small charge.

Chains
Chains should always be strong enough to support the charm or pendant worn on them.  Otherwise, the chain will stretch and may eventually break.  Sleeping with chains on can also cause them to weaken and break.

If your chain gets caught on something, try not to jerk away.  Untangle yourself gently and use a straight pin to remove knots in the chain.  Regular, professional inspections help keep chains in top condition.

Metal Combinations
Jewelry designs that incorporate more than one metal require gentle cleaning with a soft cloth.  Lightly buff them in order to preserve the oxidation that adds so much beauty to some of these pieces.  Polishes and chemical dips should be avoided.

If you are reluctant to clean James Avery combination pieces, bring them to us.  We can evaluate and professionally clean them for you.

Inspections
If you have a concern about your James Avery jewelry or would simply like to have it inspected, we will be happy to provide this service free of charge.  Regular inspections protect you from the loss of your jewelry due to loose mountings, damaged stones, weakened clasps, or other problems.

James Avery Workmanship
We are very proud of the high standard of workmanship we uphold in the creation of our jewelry.  From the very beginning, James Avery has believed in integrity and good taste in all matters.  Our jewelry must be as pleasant to wear as it is to see.  Our designers create jewelry that is functional as well as expressive, and our crafts people work with dedication and skill to ensure each design is as it should be, from concept to completion.

Please remember that our guarantee does not cover work performed by companies or jewelers other than James Avery.

We offer minor alterations on most of our items, sizing, and refurbishing at a reasonable fee.

If you have any problems or questions concerning James Avery jewelry or are in need of product care services, please allow us to help you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How should I properly store my jewelry?
To minimize the chance of scratches, separate your jewelry into a compartmentalized box, and store it in one of our soft flannel pouches.

Why does my jewelry sometimes leave a black residue on my clothing or skin?
Certain types of cosmetics contain chemicals that can abrade your jewelry, causing a sort of metallic dust.  This metallic dust often appears black and can cause smudges on your skin or clothing.  To avoid this problem, put on your jewelry after applying your cosmetics.

Black smudges may also be caused by corrosion due to perspiration, exposure to salts and exposure to hydrogen sulfide gas (present in polluted air, some foodstuffs and industrial chemicals).  To avoid these smudges, we recommend that you do not wear your jewelry while handling chemicals or products containing sulfur, and gently polish your jewelry often to remove tarnish.

Why do I occasionally have skin irritation when wearing my ring?
Some people occasionally experience a burning, itching and/or redness, usually on the skin beneath rings.  This condition may be due to the build-up of soaps, detergents, waxes, and/or creams, which also cause a dulling film on your jewelry.  To avoid skin irritation and to keep your jewelry bright, do not wear your rings when using cleaning products or lotions, and clean your rings frequently.