Jewelry Care
What is Gold-Filled?
Gold-filled jewelry is composed of a solid layer of gold, which must constitute at least 5% of the item’s total weight, It is a pressurized bond to sterling silver or a base metal. Gold-filled lasts much longer than electroplated jewelry. It’s a quality material that is common in all types of jewelry and popular in the United States, Asia and Europe. The product is easy to care for and will usually maintain its golden shine for a lifetime. Gold-filled is constructed in two or three layers. The core metal being sterling silver or jewelers’ brass. Gold is then bonded to one or both surfaces of the core with heat and pressure. Unlike plated metals, Gold-filled is legally required to contain 5% or 1/20 gold by weight. This 5% is then described by the karatage of the gold alloy. Our Gold-filled items are made with 14kt gold-filled. 14k Gold-filled products are identified as 14/20 Gold-filled or 14kt Gold-Filled.
Care For Gold-Filled & Rose Gold-Filled Jewelry
Gold-filled does not peel or flake off like plated or dipped products. Nor does it tarnish as readily as silver. Many owners find that they never have to clean gold-filled items at all. However, from time to time your jewelry may become dirty from everyday wear. To clean gold-filled it is best to use dish soap or a mild soap and water. Hot weather and water will not damage the material. Although, like any metal jewelry, chemicals may harm the product if left in an area too long (I.E. some types of glues, nail polish, fumes..). If you plan on not wearing your jewelry for a period of time, let your items dry fully and place them in an air tight container or plastic bag, like a zip lock. We would also recommend this type of cleaning for silver as well.
Caring For Sterling Silver Jewelry
When oxygen or sulfur come in contact with silver, they chemically bond to its surface and cause the silver to appear dirty or discolored. You can avoid tarnish by wearing your silver pieces more often, as the oils on your skin will “clean” your silver and keep it looking shiny. Avoid contact with household chemicals, perspiration, chlorine water, or anything that contains sulfur. Direct sunlight also causes silver to tarnish. When you are not wearing your silver jewelry, store it in an airtight plastic bag with anti-tarnish strips, a piece of chalk, a packet of activated charcoal, or a container of silica gel. Warm water and a mild, ammonia and phosphate free dishwashing soap is a great homemade cleaner if your piece is looking tarnished.
Stamped Bangles Ink Fading?
Stamped bangles will fade over time. The black ink is not permanent and will fade with daily wear. DIY: Use a fine tip permanent marker, to color in the letters, then just rub off any extra ink with a paper towel or polishing cloth. If you prefer, we can recolor your bangles for you. Please contact us for details.
Warning: Do Not Leave Your Bangles In A Jewelry Box
Please be advised not to leave your bangles in a jewelry box (unless properly stowed). Jewelry boxes are sometimes made with an adhesive that contains chemicals that will change the color of the metal. The color change in not a tarnish but just a discoloration that can be easily taken cared of with a polishing cloth or a re-tumble. Unless the jewelry has been in a box for long term, it may be damaged and be more difficult to revert back to its natural state. Please take care of your jewelry to ensure long lasting beauty.
Warning: Harsh Chemicals Will Ruin Your Bangles
Please remove your bangles before swimming in a pool, cleaning with harsh chemicals, or using vinegar. Also, please apply any lotions or perfumes before you put on your bangles so the chemicals don’t ruin your jewelry.
Pearl Care
Good quality pearls are durable, and are meant to be worn, but they need to be taken care of properly in order for them to keep their beauty and luster. Here are some very important tips to help you care of your pearls now and in the future.
Please take your bangles before exercising. Pearls can peel if sweat is allowed to come into contact with your pearls and remain in contact with them for extended periods of time. Perspiration is acidic and it will start to eat away at the pearl skin (nacre) and cause the pearls nucleus to show.
Pearls can also be damaged or peel if they are exposed to certain liquids and chemicals:
• Ammonia
• Hair Spray
• Perfume
• Cosmetics
• Household Cleaners
• Detergents
• Vinegar
• Chlorine
Pearls are naturally delicate and can scratch if they come in contact with other sharp objects or gemstones.
After you’ve worn your pearls make sure you wipe them gently with a soft cloth. This will help to remove any sweat, excess oils, perfume or dirt from the surface. Always do this before you put them away.