JEWELRY CARE

Jewelry is meant to be worn and enjoyed; everyday wear adds character to a piece and is a natural part of the life cycle of jewelry. While the oils in skin can help keep jewelry clean, a little tender loving care goes a long way to ensuring the longevity of your piece.

• Moisture causes silver to tarnish. When not wearing your piece, make sure that it is dry before storing it. The addition of a small silica gel pack inside a jewelry box will help wick away moisture if you live in a humid environment.

• Household chemicals, such as chlorine in bleach or sulfur in lotions, shampoos, perfumes, and certain foods (eggs, onions), also cause silver to tarnish. So, it is best to remove your jewelry before showering, swimming, washing your hands, applying lotions, cooking, exercising, or doing household cleaning.

• Clean your piece in warm soapy water with a gentle detergent (phosphate free), such as dishwashing soap, and use a soft toothbrush. Avoid using coarser brushes or polishing clothes, as these will alter the finish of your piece. If your piece has an oxidized (blackened) chain, remove the chain before cleaning the pendant. Oxidation treatments do eventually wear off and can be reapplied free of charge.

• Store your piece out of direct sunlight and individually, preferably in a small ziplock bag, to avoid scratching against other jewelry and ensuring that chains won’t tangle.