We believe jewelry is meant to be worn every day. With that in mind, here are some helpful tips to keep your jewelry looking its very best!
General Tips
- Remove your jewelry when performing tasks that may cause physical damage. i.e. cleaning, gardening, swimming, working out etc.
- Avoid exposure to chemicals such as chlorine, bleach, ammonia etc.
- Put all jewelry on after you have applied all cosmetics, perfumes, lotions and hairspray. These products can contain chemicals that can damage your jewelry.
Sterling Silver
With time, any sterling silver jewelry piece that is exposed to air will tarnish. This is not a default in the piece, it is a natural process that depends on your body chemistry reacting with the metals. The best way to prevent this is wearing your silver jewelry often. The oils in your skin help prevent tarnish depending on your own body chemistry. When storing your silver jewelry, use an airtight plastic bag to help prevent tarnish while you are not wearing your silver. If your silver is tarnished the best way to clean it is with a jewelry polishing cloth.
Brass
Brass will naturally darken/patina over time. We love this about brass, and feel that it gives each piece character. If you don't like the dark patina, try to avoid getting your brass jewelry wet and store in an airtight plastic bag. If you want to bring it back to its shiniest self, polish it with a silver cloth or polishing pad - do not use any chemicals. (for non plated brass only)
Gold Filled
Gold fill is made from solid gold which is 'filled' with other alloys. The finish and surface of gold fill has the same properties of solid gold because it is gold. 14k gold fill is solid 14k gold, bonded with heat to a brass core. Please care for your gold fill pieces just as you would a gold piece of jewelry. Gently polish by hand with a clean cloth.
Plated Sterling Silver
Plating may wear off over time, especially in the presence of items containing sulfur such as leather, rubber, chlorine, and perspiration as well as lotions, perfumes and oils. It is not advisable to polish or wipe your plated silver jewelry. Wipe gently only if needed and never use anything but a clean, nub-free cotton cloth. Avoid silver polish or dip style cleaning products which will remove the plating.
Cubic Zirconia
Use a cotton or flannel cloth to wipe your jewelry clean. A special jewelry polishing cloth would be perfect. Using straight, back and forth strokes, polish your jewelry and remove any surface dirt and dust. Do not rub in a circular motion as that can scratch the surface of your jewelry. Just like a diamond, a cubic zirconia can be cleaned with warm water and mild soap. Use a soft, cosmetic applicator to reach crevices. However, if you wish, you can use a trusted jewelry cleaner to remove any dirt and dust from your zirconium.
Pearls
Pearls are beautiful, organic gems and need very special care and treatment to maintain their natural beauty and luster. Your pearls should be the last piece of jewelry you put on and the first thing you take off. Wipe them with a clean, soft cloth or chamois.Never clean with commercial jewelry cleanser. Pearls can be washed in water with a mild, non-detergent soap and cleaned with a soft cloth. Lay them on a clean towel to dry.
Gemstones
Gemstones are quite literally hard as rock, but they can be damaged from careless handling and negligence. Remember, even the hardest gemstone variety can be vulnerable to breakage if it has inclusions that weaken the crystal structure. Gems can scratch the finish on your gold or silver if you throw your jewelry in a heap in a drawer or jewelry box. Rings in particular tend to collect dust and soap behind the gem, especially if worn often. You need to clean them regularly to let the light in so your gems can shine. To clean transparent crystalline gemstones, simply soak them in water with a touch of gentle dish soap. If necessary, use a soft toothbrush to scrub behind the stone. Rinse the soap off and pat dry with a lint-free cloth.
Leather
Leather is a strong material, but it should not be worn in or exposed to water, which can weaken it. Avoid exposure to perfumes, creams and soaps.
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