Jewelry Care

How to care for your jewelry pieces to keep them safe and shiny

Materials- I use high quality materials including .925, fine silver, 14k gold, and jeweler’s brass. These metals will periodically need light cleaning depending on environment, amount of wear, where pieces are stored etc. Each package will contain a sunshine polishing cloth that can be used periodically to bring your piece back to its original shine. Please note that sometimes pieces are not finished with a high shine, this is intentional and will be noted in the listing (ex: matte finish)

What to Avoid: Avoid showering with your jewelry. It’s not the end of the world, but be sure to dry your piece thoroughly. Water itself is not damaging to sterling silver but most of the water we are exposed to is not purified, it contains chemicals and contaminants and can result in tarnished and dull looking silver. Avoid swimming pools, hot tubs, and hot springs. Please also avoid applying lotions and perfumes while wearing your jewelry. Apply them first and let them dry before putting your jewelry on, this can make a huge difference!

Proper Storage: A lot of folks don’t realize that air exposure can tarnish your silver jewelry, so unless you want to store them in air-tight bags, a bit of extra cleaning might be necessary. Please don’t store your jewelry in the bathroom, this humidity can expedite tarnishing as well. Silver is a softer metal and if stored haphazardly with other jewelry, can potentially be scratched. Keep that in mind for traveling.

Know when to take your jewelry off: I know it can be annoying to take your jewelry off, but there are a few times when its necessary to keep your pieces looking nice. Strong chemicals, sulfur, sweat, chlorine, and harsh sunlight can tarnish your jewelry. Preventative care is much easier than dealing with damaged jewelry! Caring for your jewelry is personal, and these are just suggestions. I do endorse responsibly adventuring in your jewelry!

Remember to remove jewelry during the following times:

  • Household chores such as dishes, laundry, and when using any cleaning supplies.

  • When exercising that involves heavy sweating

  • When showering, bathing, swimming, soaking

  • When getting ready (i.e: putting on lotion, makeup, hair products)

  • Preparing, cooking, or eating foods that contain sulfur (eggs, mayo etc)

  • Outside chores such as gardening

How to clean your jewelry: Each piece will come with a sunshine polishing cloth, this can be used periodically to polish silver, just be sure to avoid the stone. Also avoid any areas that are intentionally oxidized (darkened). If the piece needs a bit of extra love, there are some DIY cleaning methods.

  • Baking soda method: 2 parts water, 1 part baking soda (use a bit more water if that jewelry has delicate features). Stir into a paste and use an old toothbrush to apply to silver with gentle motions. Rinse and dry well.

  • Liquid dish soap and water: Nothing fancy, just wash your piece gently as you would your own hands with a bit of natural dish soap.

Always feel free to reach out about jewelry care or questions!