Buckhead – September 18, 2026 -- Fine jewelry needs more than an occasional wipe-down to stay secure and brilliant, according to jewelry expert Olivia Bateman of LeeBrant Jewelry and Watch Company in Buckhead, Georgia. Bateman recommends an annual professional cleaning and inspection to catch small issues before they turn into costly repairs or lost stones.
Daily wear loosens settings more than most owners realize
Lotions, perfumes, and everyday movement gradually affect metals and can loosen stones over months of wear. Bateman compares a professional inspection to a wellness check: simple, preventative, and essential for long-term protection.
Inspectors check prongs, clasps, and settings for subtle shifts
During an annual inspection, technicians examine prongs, clasps, and settings to confirm stones remain tight and secure. Bateman notes that even durable settings can shift slightly over time, and catching those changes early helps prevent loss or damage. LeeBrant Jewelry applies this scrutiny across pieces ranging from diamond engagement rings to gold bracelets and colored gemstone pendants.
Ultrasonic and steam cleaning restore clarity lost to daily residue
Dirt and oil buildup from daily wear dulls brilliance, particularly in diamonds, emeralds, and sapphires. Professional cleaning uses specialized ultrasonic and steam methods safe for fine materials to restore clarity and luster. Bateman stresses that different stones require different handling -- diamonds tolerate deeper ultrasonic cleaning, while softer gems like opals and pearls need gentler treatment.
Daily-wear pieces may need a second checkup mid-year
While most jewelry benefits from one annual cleaning, items worn constantly -- wedding bands, engagement rings, favorite necklaces -- accumulate residue and loosen faster than occasional pieces. Bateman recommends a midyear inspection for these items as an added layer of protection. LeeBrant Jewelry builds personalized annual care plans based on a client's lifestyle and collection.
Worn metal and weakened clasps often go unnoticed until damage occurs
Metals can thin, clasps can weaken, and tiny gaps can form between settings and stones without visible warning signs. Bateman describes annual care as a way to detect these subtle changes before they become visible problems, reflecting what she calls a broader commitment to craftsmanship and client trust at LeeBrant Jewelry.