Jewelry Care Tips

SO, STORAGE IS KEY!

  • Sterling silver, when not worn obviously, lives best somewhere cool, dark and moisture free. 
  • Fasten and close all your chains to stop them from getting all tangled up with one another (unless you enjoy the process of unraveling them... I wouldn't advise that though.)
  • Store your pieces separately (to prevent scratching and whatnot) in a little ziplocked bag, a soft pouch, a fabric bag, or any kind of container (as long as it's airtight)
  • You know those small bags of silica you find in your new handbags? The ones you throw away? They're "great dehumidifiers"! Put a few in your jewelry box.

 

PREVENTION IS THE BEST SOLUTION:

  • Home chores, we "love" them (that was sarcasm, just in case), don't we? Your sterling jewelry "loves" them just as much. Please avoid exposure to household cleaning products, bleach and other strong chemicals. Make sure you take your rings off before sanitizing your hands

  • Make accessorizing the last finishing touch. Wear your jewels after you've applied any kind of make-up, perfume and hairspray to avoid unnecessary contact with these chemicals.

  • Do not swim or shower with your jewelry. Chlorine is a big no-no, and soap and shampoo speeds up the tarnishing process.

  • Remove your jewelry before exercising. Can you really do a plank with rings and a headstand with your pretty necklace tickling your face?

  • You may want to flaunt your jewelry on the beach but the direct sunlight, sand and salt water won't do it any favors, save it to wow when having drinks later.

 

HOME REMEDIES & DIY CLEANING METHODS:

Some common and cheap items in your kitchen pantry can come in handy for a quick silver polish. Here are a few ways to get rid of the tarnish and get that shine back…

  • Dishwashing liquid and warm water: this is the most recommended method because of their gentleness. This should really be your first line of defense before trying anything else. Just let your jewelry have a bubble bath, gently scrub the “dirt” off with a soft toothbrush (not the one you use though), and pat dry with a soft cloth (microfiber cloth preferably, if you have one).
  • Or, add some boiling water and baking soda to a bowl, layered with aluminum foil. Throw your things in, remove them after 1-3 minutes and rinse under cool water. Once that’s done, rub dry with a microfiber cloth.

  • Or, mix some baking soda with some lukewarm water to make a paste. Apply a pea-sized amount to your sterling silver jewelry and leave on for a few minutes. Gently rub the paste with a microfiber cloth to clean it off. You can also use a toothbrush for the more intricate areas. Rinse the paste off with cold water. Ta-da!
  • Or, white vinegar and baking soda: This gentle cleaning method is great for removing tarnish too. Soak your sterling silver in ½ cup of white vinegar and 2 tbsp of baking soda (combine these in the sink and prepare yourself for the fizzing, bubbles and foam) for around two hours. Rinse the babes and pat dry.