Taking care of jewelry

Depending on how you treat your jewelry, determines whether it can last years or months. The use of fluids (perfume, oils, lotions) on or near the jewelry--or on the part of your skin where you wear the jewelry on--can produce tarnishing.




Metals

Sterling silver/.925 Sterling Silver - This require good care, however, if it becomes tarnished, it is usually removable by using a simple dry cloth. The best way to prevent tarnishing on sterling silver is store it in a tiny bag or to wear it.

Gold-plated/Brass - Requires the same amount of care as simple costume jewelry. Since it is not karat gold, it will and can tarnish over time.However, if you keep it away from perfume and oils, it can last much longer than custom jewelry. Try storing your gold plated jewelry in tiny plastic bags when not in use.

Rhodium Plated - It’s stated not to tarnish but anything is possible. Rhodium plated pieces can become dull with time (after 12 months of everyday wear), but if you just shine it with a silk cloth it clears it right up. Treat it as sterling silver jewelry

Stainless Steel, Titanium, Aluminum - Metals like stainless steel, titanium, and aluminum are tarnish proof. Stainless steel and titanium are one of most durable metals in wearable jewelry. Besides light scratches, these metals will look always look pretty new.


Gemstones


Lapis Lazuli - Lapis is a very soft stone on the hardness scale. Do not submerge in water or it will damage the stone.

Crystals - Sunlight can change or fade a crystal’s colors. Do not put in direct sunlight or UV light.

Amethyst/Rubies/Aquamarine/Garnet - Amethyst is also affected by sunlight and can cause the stone to change colors or fade away. Washing with a cloth or toothbrush is fine to clean the stone.


Professional Jewelry Cleaning Options


We do not recommend professional jewelry cleaner on most metals. There are many safer ways to clean your jewelry without the use of harsh chemicals.

For sterling silver,gold filled, karat gold, pewter and other non-plated metals; we recommend the option of using a soft satin scarf (similar to ones meant to clean eyeglass lenses), a pro polish pad or a sunshine polish cloth.

For really dirty jewelry (meaning that it is filled with dirt, gunk and dust), we recommend a sonic cleaner ($30). You can add soap and water and put your dirty items inside. The sonic cleaner vibrates the dirt from the jewelry.  

Physical Activities - Remove jewelry when doing activities such as swimming, exercising with equipment, heavy lifting, amusement parks rides. You don't want your jewelry to get hit, caught, or lost in anything.


DIY (Doing It Yourself)


You can also clean some of your jewelry by giving it a bath in some hot water, Dawn Dish-washing liquid and baking soda. Let it sit for a few minutes and brush lightly with a soft baby toothbrush. Rinse well to prevent residue. Quickly pat dry to prevent water spots on the jewelry.


Treat your jewelry with care and it will treat you back with its beauty.