General Care & Maintenance Checklist
- Avoid the “Four W’s” (Water, Wear, Sweat, & Perfume):
- Keep away from liquids: Remove pieces before showering, swimming, washing hands, or doing dishes. Water causes brass to oxidize faster and degrades the coating.
- Apply cosmetics first: Apply perfumes, lotions, hairsprays, and makeup before putting on jewelry. The chemicals, acids, and alcohol in beauty products break down 18k gold coatings and dull Czech beads or crystals.
- Remove before physical activity: Sweat contains natural salts and acids that accelerate tarnishing and plating wear.
- Storage Best Practices:
- Store individually: Place each piece in its own soft velvet pouch, cotton-lined box, or re-sealable airtight ziplock bag to prevent metals and stones from scratching against each other.
- Keep in a cool, dark place: Store away from direct sunlight, high heat, and humidity (avoid storing jewelry in the bathroom).
- Tangle prevention: Fasten necklace and bracelet clasps before storing to prevent chains and bead wires from knotting.
How to Care for Your Jewelry
To keep your pieces shining bright and looking brand new, follow these simple care tips:
- The Final Touch: Put your jewelry on after applying lotion, perfume, and makeup to protect the 18k gold coating and bead finishes.
- Keep it Dry: Always remove your jewelry before bathing, swimming, or working out.
- Gentle Cleaning: After wearing, wipe your pieces with a soft micro-fiber cloth to remove skin oils. Avoid abrasive cleaners or polish cloths.
- Safe Storage: Store items individually in a dry place or pouch to prevent scratching, tangling, or air exposure.