How to Care for Your Jewelry

One question I'm frequently asked: how should I care for my jewelry? 

The first thing I do when I get home is I take my jewelry off because I know when I'm at home I will usually do an activity that is hard on jewelry. This includes a variety of chores like cleaning, washing dishes, and even putting perfume or lotions on. A good rule of thumb is that jewelry should be the last thing you put on before leaving the house, and the first thing you take off when you get home.  

Here are some general tips when it comes to taking care of your jewelry:

• The best way to prevent tarnishing is to store sterling silver dry and clean in an airtight container. This could be something as simple as a Ziplock bag.
• Don’t leave silver jewelry in the bathroom. Humidity speeds up the oxidation process that produces tarnish.
• Minimize sterling silver’s contact with chemicals (hairspray, perfume, body lotion, bleach, etc.) and do not wear it in any type of water (yes, this includes the shower!)
• After taking off silver jewelry, clean it with a dry soft cloth before putting it back into an airtight container. Make sure to use a silver cleaning cloth, as tissues and paper towels can cause scratches. 
• Always remove jewelry before cleaning. A film can form if soap or cleaning agents are not washed off completely. This film will become a magnet for dirt, dust and other contaminants
• Commercial cleaners can be purchased at jewelry stores. Always remember to read the instructions on the commercial cleaners first before you attempt cleaning. Most commercial cleaners are very strong and will remove all oxidation!
• If you’d like to avoid harsh commercial cleaners, wash silver jewelry (without gemstones or pearls) in warm water containing a few drops of mild dish soap. Immerse the sterling silver in the water and gently hand wash. Use a cotton swab or soft toothbrush to get corners. Rinse and dry the sterling silver before storing, as moisture is one of the factors that contribute to tarnishing!
• If the jewelry contains gemstones or pearls, do not submerge the entire piece into the water. Instead, use only a cotton swab or soft toothbrush with mild dish soap to wash only the silver. 

When followed, these tips can keep your jewelry looking brand new!

I'd love if you would share how you keep your jewelry clean over on our facebook page. 

XO,

Margie