Jewellery Care

Care and attention go into making handmade jewellery.

In order to ensure your jewellery lasts, the same care and attention should go into caring for it.

Silver

The silver used in my pieces is either sterling 925 or fine silver.

  • Leaving jewellery exposed to air can speed up the oxidising process, gradually darkening the piece causing it to lose its lustre. To minimise this, store your handmade jewellery in a sealed airtight or anti-tarnish bag, silica gel sachets or anti-tarnish strips. These products can be purchased from retailers or online.
  • If the metal on your jewellery begins to tarnish, gently polish and buff with a clean cloth.  This will usually bring the shine up on your piece. Please do not use abrasive polishes or chemicals to clean your jewellery. Always be gentle when polishing.
  • Remove jewellery before such activities such as showering, washing dishes, swimming, etc.
  • Avoid direct contact with cosmetics, perfumes, lotions, chemicals and saltwater as these products may damage or discolour jewellery. Apply these products BEFORE wearing your jewellery and ensure its fully dry.
  • Avoid knocking or scratching gemstones – some stones are hard wearing but others are naturally softer and can scratch or chip easily.
  • Pearls and opals are extremely delicate and all contact with water should be completely avoided.

Sea Glass / Sea Pottery

  • Sea glass/sea pottery should be cleaned as little as possible, especially if within a bezel setting. I would also recommend that sea glass pieces set in a bezel setting have minimum water contact as if moisture gets behind the sea glass it can tarnish the metal back plate and it’s almost impossible to remove.
  • Care must also be taken to avoid knocking or scratching sea glass/sea pottery as they may get scratched or chip easily.

Anodised Aluminium

  • Anodised aluminium needs very little after care as it does not oxidise and tarnish like silver over time.
  • If it needs cleaning, use soap and warm water. Do not to clean it with anything abrasive so that it doesn’t damage the colour. 
  • The colour will not fade in daylight and is completely waterproof.
  • If rubbed against another metal, your piece may develop a dull cast or develop scratches, therefore store each piece separately from other jewellery.

Copper

  • Copper is a soft metal that tends to patina or tarnish over time. This natural oxidation process can lead to a darkened or aged look and will create a colour change on the surface of your jewellery. While some people appreciate the aged look, others prefer to keep their copper pieces shiny.
  • To prevent tarnishing, avoid exposing your copper jewellery to harsh chemicals, household cleaners, perfumes, lotions.
  • Remove your jewellery before swimming, showering, or engaging in activities that may expose it to moisture.
  • To prevent scratches and tangling, store your copper pieces separately in a cool, dry place. Consider using anti-tarnish bags/strips or jewellery boxes to protect them.
  • Regular cleaning is essential to prevent tarnishing.  Several methods can be used, such as commercial copper cleaners or natural pastes made of lemon and salt or vinegar and salt. 
  • After cleaning, ensure your copper jewellery is completely dry before storing it. Copper is susceptible to moisture, so always pat it dry with a clean, soft cloth.

Enamel Jewellery

Enamel Jewellery is created by fusing powdered glass onto a metal surface at high temperatures. This process results in a beautiful, colourful finish that can be highly durable. However, the glass-like coating is also prone to certain issues, such as chipping or fading, if not properly cared for, and care should be taken not to drop or knock your piece against hard surfaces. Also store each piece separately in a pouch or box.

  • Cleaning – To clean enamel jewellery properly, it’s essential to be gentle to preserve its delicate surface. Use a mild soap and room temperature water. Ensure the water is not too hot to prevent damage to the enamel. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners, as they can strip away the enamel’s protective layer and cause irreparable damage. We recommend you use soft cloths specifically designed for delicate jewellery. This kind of gentle treatment is essential to preserve the enamel.
  • Drying – After cleaning enamel jewellery, it’s crucial to carefully dry it to preserve its pristine appearance. Pat dry with a soft cloth to avoid water spots, which can mar the surface. Proper drying also helps prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to tarnishing or corrosion over time. Ensuring the jewellery is thoroughly dried before storing helps maintain its lustre and prolongs its lifespan.
  • Storage – It’s advisable to store enamel pieces in separate compartments or pouches to prevent scratching or chipping, as the enamel’s surface can easily be marred by contact with other hard materials. We highly recommend you avoid exposing your accessories to direct sunlight and extreme temperatures, as these environmental factors can cause discoloration, fading or warping of the enamel.
  • Maintenance – It is essential to periodically examine your piece to detect any signs of damage. The sooner you seek repairs from a professional jeweller, the less likely it is that further damage and deterioration will occur.