Care of our jewelry
This is a crucial step to optimize the use and lifespan of your sterling silver and gold-filled jewelry. Unfortunately, the internet is currently flooded with misinformation (due to a lack of knowledge or deceptive marketing) that misleads buyers, leading to the jewelry being used inappropriately.
Solid silver:
The most common misconception about silver is that it doesn't tarnish, which is false. Oxidation is actually a natural process inherent to silver, and here are some tips for optimal care:
- Avoid sleeping with your jewelry on: This is a universal piece of advice that applies to any metal and prevents unpleasant surprises when you wake up (loss of a chip, loose stone, etc.).
- Avoid swimming with them: While this is obvious for salt water, many people think that showering is harmless for jewelry, which is far from true. In fact, showering (generally) isn't just with water (which itself contains chlorine), but with a myriad of products containing chemicals that promote oxidation.
- Avoid using beauty products directly on them: This is the same principle as with shower products. Perfumes and creams are full of elements harmful to metals, so it's wise to minimize contact with your jewelry.
- Avoid intense sports sessions: Sweat contains acidic elements that promote the alteration of metals, moreover if you have used beauty products the impact is much greater.
- Skin pH is another factor, which unfortunately cannot be easily avoided/controlled by the wearer of the jewelry. If the pH is high (so-called "skin" fat "), this is considered an Alkaline pH, which will promote the alteration/oxidation of the metal.
There are still many things to " avoid "but we prefer to be as comprehensive as possible so that you have all the information you need for optimal maintenance.
Sterling silver plated with 18k gold
It should be understood that 18k gold-plated silver is naturally more delicate than regular silver and will lose some of its gilding (which is not immutable) over time if the maintenance advice mentioned above is not followed.
If you are unable to follow (at least minimally) the care instructions mentioned above, we recommend that you opt for the classic silver version or gold-filled jewelry.
Gold filled 14h
Gold-filled jewelry, also known as gold-filled plating, is a technique that is much thicker than traditional plating; however, proper care is still necessary to maximize the lifespan of your jewelry. Here are some tips for caring for your gold-filled jewelry:
- Avoid chemicals: Chemicals such as perfumes, lotions, shampoos, etc., can damage the gold plating on gold-filled jewelry. It is therefore advisable to remove them before (for example) applying perfume or showering.
- Clean regularly: To clean your gold filled jewelry, use a soft cloth (jewelry style, for glasses…) and (if necessary) damp to remove dirt and residue.
- Store them separately: To avoid scratches and damage, store your gold-filled jewelry separately in a case or jewelry box.
By following these care tips, your gold-filled jewelry should retain its luster and shine for many years.Remember to wear them with care and maintain them regularly to keep them looking their best.
Jewelry with natural stones
First, it's important to know that the characteristics (such as hardness/resistance) vary from one stone to another. For example, turquoise can easily crack or stain, while amethyst is more resistant. Therefore, it's crucial to research the properties of each stone before cleaning or caring for it (feel free to consult our blog for articles detailing the characteristics of each stone).
In general, here are some tips that will help you take care of your scarlet darlings:
For cleaning, it is often recommended to clean the part of the jewelry containing the natural stone with warm soapy water and then rinse it. It is important to use a mild detergent and not to rub too hard, as this could damage the stone.
Store the jewelry in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Semi-precious stones can lose their luster if exposed to extreme temperatures or intense UV rays. It is also recommended to store them separately to prevent scratches.
- Be careful with chemicals that could damage semi-precious stones. For example, alcohol, acetone, ammonia, and other chemicals commonly used for cleaning can damage semi-precious stones.
By following these tips, you can maintain the beauty and shine of your jewelry for a long time. And remember, if you have any questions about how to clean or care for your jewelry, you can always contact us; we'll be happy to help!