Jewellery Care Guide
Each piece in my collection is handcrafted with precision and intention. To ensure your adornments remain as vibrant and structurally sound as the day they were created, they deserve gentle, intentional care. This guide is designed to help you preserve the delicate details and materials of your unique objects.
The Science of Tarnish
What is Tarnish?
Sterling silver is an alloy consisting of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper. Tarnish forms when these metals react with sulfur and oxygen in the air, creating a dark layer on the surface. This is a natural, surface-level change and doesn’t mean the piece is damaged, but it can dull the shine over time.
Rhodium Plating
Rhodium plating is a thin layer of rhodium (a bright, white precious metal) applied over sterling silver. Rhodium is highly resistant to tarnish and can give a cooler, whiter shine. Over time, this plating can gradually wear away on high-contact areas like ring bands and bracelet edges, and may need to be refreshed by a professional if you want to maintain the original look.
Clear Anti-Tarnish Coatings
Some sterling silver pieces are finished with a clear protective lacquer or anti-tarnish coating. This creates a thin barrier between the metal and the air, helping to slow down tarnishing by reducing exposure to moisture and sulfur. These coatings can wear down with regular wear, especially on pieces that rub against skin or clothing, so gentle cleaning and careful storage still make a big difference.
E-Coating
E-coating (electro-coating) is a very thin, even protective layer that is electrically bonded to the surface of the metal. It’s designed to be more durable than a simple lacquer and can help keep silver looking bright for longer by shielding it from air, moisture, and everyday contact. Like all finishes, e-coating can eventually wear in high-friction areas, but it generally offers strong, long-lasting tarnish resistance when treated with care.
The Role of Body Chemistry
Have you ever noticed that silver tarnishes faster on some people than others? This often comes down to body chemistry. Factors like skin pH, sweat, medications, and even diet can change how quickly tarnish appears. Some people may see their silver darken more quickly, while others notice only slow, gentle changes over time.
Cleaning Guides
Sterling Silver
- Use a soft microfiber or jewellery polishing cloth to gently remove tarnish.
- Avoid harsh chemicals, toothpaste, or abrasive cloths, as these can scratch the surface.
- Perfume, lotions, hairspray, and sweat can speed up tarnishing—apply products first and let them dry before putting jewellery on.
- Chlorine, salt water, and hot tubs can damage sterling silver and stones; always remove jewellery before swimming or bathing.
- When not in use, keep sterling silver in a dry, airtight pouch or box to slow down tarnishing.
Gemstones
- Preserve the brilliance of your stones by using lukewarm, soapy water and a delicate cloth for rinsing.
- Special care is required for porous minerals like opal and pearl; these should only be touched with a damp rag, avoiding any immersion or ultrasonic waves.
- Guard your gems against rapid temperature shifts and separate individual pieces in your jewelry box to ensure that harder crystals do not leave marks on softer specimens.
Shell
- Keep organic shell elements radiant by wiping them with a slightly moistened cotton cloth.
- Internal structures are vulnerable to high-frequency cleaners and heat, which can cause irreparable fractures.
- Because of their natural fragility, handle these adornments with grace to avoid impact damage.
- Minimize exposure to harsh light sources and always apply personal care products before putting on your shell pieces to keep the surface from clouding.
Patina & Oxidized Finishes
- Avoid using any polishing compounds or liquids on patina or oxidized finishes, as they can strip away the intentional darkening and change the look of your piece.
- Gently clean with a soft, dry cloth only, focusing on removing surface dust and oils rather than making the metal bright.
- Store these pieces separately so harder metals or stones don’t rub against the finish.
- Expect the patina to evolve slightly over time with normal wear.
Storage Tips
- Store pieces in separate soft pouches or compartments to avoid scratches and tangling.
- Keep jewellery in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, humidity, and extreme temperatures.
- Avoid storing pieces in the bathroom, and keep sterling silver in airtight bags or boxes with anti-tarnish strips, which absorb moisture, sulfur, and some of the oxygen in the air to help slow down the chemical reactions that cause tarnishing.