Jewelry Care Tips

Dust, pollution, extreme temperatures, cosmetics and perfumes will dull the surface of rhodium and gold Vermeil as well as oxidized sterling silver. Jewelry should be removed prior to showering or swimming as well as before applying lotion, sunscreen and perfume.  Chlorine, harsh chemicals, silver dip, sonic-cleaning systems and polishing cloths which have been treated with cleaners or polishing agents should be avoid at all times.

CARING FOR RHODIUM PLATE

Rhodium is a metal in the platinum family frequently used to plate white gold and sterling silver to create a shiny, sparkling finish. Rhodium is hypoallergenic and doesn’t corrode.  It is a very hard wearing metal, however, overtime the plating can fade.

Clean rhodium plated silver with warm water and a mild liquid soap. Rinse and dry with a soft polishing cloth immediately to avoid mineral residue from the water.

Don’t use polishing cloths that are intended for use on uncoated silver or for gold jewelry. Don’t place in an ultrasonic cleaner. Never use abrasives of any kind. Never use silver dips. Never use ammonia-based products. 

CARING FOR OXIDIZED SILVER

The blackish color of oxidized sterling silver is a special 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 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.

CARING FOR GOLD VERMEIL

Gold vermeil is an overlay of gold over a base of sterling silver. Gold vermeil jewelry requires special care. Remember to remove your gold vermeil jewelry before applying perfumes, lotions, showering and swimming. 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 24k gold vermeil jewelry – it can strip the gold finish. It is natural for gold vermeil jewelry to tarnish with time—it adds character to the item and makes it more unique.

CARING FOR MAMMOTH IVORY

Mammoth Ivory is a sturdy material, but it is porous and does not like to get wet. Mammoth ivory jewelry should be removed prior to showering and swimming.

To clean your mammoth ivory, use a soft, dry cloth with a small amount of mineral oil to gently buff away any residue on the ivory and wipe completely clean. Do not submerge mammoth ivory in water or harsh cleaning solutions.

CARING FOR WOOD

Wood bead jewelry is water resistant, but not water proof.  It should not be immersed in water and should be removed prior to showering or swimming.

To clean your wood beads, use a soft, dry cloth with a small amount of mineral oil to gently buff away any residue.  Be sure to wipe completely clean.

CARING FOR BONE & HORN

Bone & horn is extremely durable, yet porous.  If soaked in water the color could change or develop a translucent appearance.  Avoid wearing when swimming or showering as well as contact with colored liquids.

Clean with a soft dry cloth. Store in a dry, cool area, avoiding exposure to direct sunlight.

CARING FOR LEATHER & SUEDE

Leather and suede is porous.  It is advised to avoid wearing while showering, swimming or performing physical exercises.  It should also be removed prior to applying lotions or perfumes. If necessary, leather cord (not suede) can be spot cleaned with a soft, damp cloth. Don’t use leather cleaners or oils to avoid staining.

STEAMING CLEANING DIAMONDS & GEM STONES

Steam is one of the most safe and effective methods of cleaning jewelry because it does not use any harsh chemicals or solutions that could possibly damage jewelry.

Boiling water in a stovetop kettle is a great way to steam clean. Simply hold the stone to be cleaned over the spout as steam is emitted. Immediately dry with a soft cloth to avoid mineral residue.

JEWELRY STORAGE

Take the time to properly care for and store your jewelry. Jewelry should never be tossed into a drawer or on top of a dresser. Store in the special pouch or in a padded jewelry box. Proper storage helps to prevent scratching of stones and metal. It is also best to keep jewelry away from extreme heat or moisture

TRAVELING WITH JEWELRY

When traveling, protect your jewelry pieces from scratches or other impact damage by padding it in a separate box or case.