Chemicals, heat, impact and abrasion can damage jewelry. Diamonds can chip and bedsheets can wear down metals.It is important to keep jewelry clean to avoid rashes, reduce wear and keep it looking best. Warm water with dish soap and a soft toothbrush is good for most pieces. Dry with a soft cloth. Polishing cloths are fine for metals but avoid softer gems like pearls. Store pieces so they don’t touch. Have jewelry professionally cleaned and inspected occasionally.