HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR HAND-MADE JEWELRY

 What is Tarnish?

 Tarnish is a result of a chemical reaction between a metal and nonmetal compounds, particularly oxygen and sulfur dioxide. It is an inevitable process for all metals except gold and platinum. Over time, exposure to air and moisture causes metals like silver, copper, and brass to darken as tarnish forms on their surfaces. The environment in which your jewelry is kept plays a significant role in how quickly tarnish develops. High temperatures and elevated humidity can accelerate the tarnishing process. For this reason, it is advisable to avoid wearing your jewelry while swimming, bathing, or washing dishes, and to refrain from storing it in the bathroom.  

Copper:

Over time, copper develops a natural patina and darkens in color, which many people find appealing. If you enjoy this patina, you can maintain it by occasionally polishing the piece with a cloth, such as a Sunshine cloth.

For pieces with a matte or brushed finish, use very fine "0000" steel wool to gently restore the luster. Simply brush the piece with the steel wool to bring back its shine without damaging the finish. Never use a polishing cloth on matte or brushed surfaces, as it will ruin the texture.

Wright’s Copper Cream is also effective for cleaning copper, but it’s not recommended for intricate designs, as the cream can accumulate in small crevices. Be sure to rinse the piece thoroughly to remove any excess cream and dry it well.

If copper causes your skin to turn green or black, try applying Renaissance Micro-crystalline Wax Polish to create a protective waterproof barrier. This should help prevent the discoloration. Reapply as needed. Renaissance wax is available for purchase online.

Silver:

Wright’s Silver Cream is highly effective for cleaning all types of silver. Be sure to follow the instructions on the jar. You can also use a Sunshine polishing cloth to enhance the shine.

For matte or brushed pieces, gently restore the luster with very fine "0000" steel wool. Simply brush the piece with the steel wool to bring back its shine without damaging the texture. Never use a polishing cloth on these finishes, as it will ruin the matte or brushed appearance.

Avoid using dip solutions like Tarn-X or Connoisseur, as they can accelerate tarnishing and are too harsh for your jewelry.

Brass or Bronze:

For antique-finished pieces, gently highlight the surface with a Sunshine polishing cloth as needed.

If the piece is heavily soiled, clean it with warm water and a small amount of mild liquid dish soap, such as Dawn, to remove dirt, pollutants, skin oils, and other buildup. Use your fingers or a soft toothbrush to clean the metal, then thoroughly rinse and dry the piece.

Always ensure your jewelry is fully rinsed and dried before storing or wearing.

For added protection, it’s a good idea to store your jewelry in an anti-tarnish bag with a tarnish strip.