Jewelry Care

Handmade jewelry requires special attention and care.  See the tips and suggestions below to keep your special piece in the very best condition.

JEWELRY CARE TIPS

Dust, pollution, cosmetics and perfumes all conspire to dull the surface of gold, gold vermeil and sterling silver. We suggest that you take the time to properly store and care for your jewelry. We recommend applying perfume or other sprayed substances before putting on your jewelry. Jewelry should always be removed prior to showering.

CARING FOR GOLD VERMEIL JEWELRY

Gold vermeil is an overlay of gold over a base of sterling silver. Gold vermeil jewelry requires special care. Remember to store your gold vermeil jewelry in an airtight container when not in use and to remove before applying perfumes, lotions, or before bathing. Chlorine, especially at high temperatures, can permanently damage or discolor your gold vermeil jewelry. Avoid wearing gold vermeil jewelry while using chlorine bleach or while in a pool or hot tub.

To clean gold vermeil jewelry, buff VERY gently with a soft and dry 100% cotton cloth or a microfiber cloth. Never use chemical cleaners on gold vermeil jewelry--it can strip the gold finish. It is natural for gold vermeil jewelry to tarnish with time.


CARING FOR OXIDIZED STERLING SILVER JEWELRY

The blackish color of oxidized sterling silver is a specialized treatment. With time and with wear, the color of the oxidized metal may lighten a bit--this is a natural and organic occurrence. This is noticeable more on chains than with pendants. If you attempt to clean oxidized sterling silver with a cloth or chemicals, it may strip off the oxidized finish. Please do not clean oxidized sterling silver jewelry. Attempting to clean oxidized sterling silver jewelry will remove the finish.

Be particularly careful of chlorine. Chlorine, especially at high temperatures, can permanently damage or discolor your silver jewelry. Avoid wearing silver jewelry while using chlorine bleach or while in a pool or hot tub. Tarnish is also accelerated in a humid environment. Oily salts from fingers can also tarnish silver.

CARING FOR LOCKETS AND PHOTO PENDANTS

Avoid wearing your lockets in the shower, pool, hot tub or beach. Remove at night before you sleep and store in any air-tight container or bag.  Keep your locket dry to protect the photo and follow the care instructions for the precious metal type that was purchased.

 

STORING YOUR JEWELRY

We recommend that you store your jewelry in any air-tight container or bag. Proper storage helps to prevent scratching of metal. It is best to keep jewelry away from extreme heat or moisture. Be careful not to place heavy objects on top of your jewelry during storage and to be gentle when putting on or removing your jewelry.