MATERIALS AND CARE
My art jewellery pieces are often made from a variety of materials with different finishes, so it is worth being aware of these and taking a little extra care when wearing them. Please try and protect your jewellery from any knocks or scratches, chemicals, direct sunlight and extreme hot and cold conditions to prevent any damage.
General Jewellery Care
- When your jewellery is not being worn, store in it's box in a cool, dry place to prevent damage.
- Do not store your jewellery in damp or humid conditions as this causes tarnishing and a damp environment attracts dust to stick and settle in the hard-to-clean areas.
- Avoid spraying cosmetic products directly onto your jewellery as this can discolour or corrode some materials.
- Apply make up and creams before you put on your jewellery.
- Remove your jewellery when washing or bathing, particularly when on the beach, in the sea or in chlorinated water.
- Avoid wearing when exercising, as sweat and salt can be harmful in the long term.
- Keep away from extreme temperatures, humidity and direct sunlight.
Materials
Silver
To restore a polished finish, carefully use a silver cloth and rub gently until shiny. For a matt finish rub with a scourer taking care of any other materials around it. If using a silver cloth, avoid getting it near any textile components as the tarnish will dirty the threads.
Oxidised Silver
Oxidised silver has been treated with a chemical solution to give a dark grey finish. This is then sealed with wax. It is a semi-permanent finish which will wear over time, particularly in exposed areas which rub against skin and other materials. This adds to the character of the pieces, giving them an antique appearance. Do not place oxidised silver items in a silver dip or use a silver cloth as this will remove the oxidisation. Only if needed wipe lightly with a damp lint free cloth and apply some Renaissance Wax.
Patinated Copper
Patinated copper is either burnt with a flame or treated with a chemical to give it it's particular colour. These are then sealed with wax. These finishes are slightly more permanent than oxidised silver, however they again will wear over time, particularly in exposed areas which rub against skin and other materials. This adds character and history to the pieces, giving them an antique appearance. Only if needed wipe lightly with a damp lint free cloth and apply some Renaissance Wax.
Lacquered or painted metals and wood
These are fairly hard wearing and can be cleaned using a lint free damp cloth. Care should be taken to avoid abrasive materials and any knocks or scratches and extreme heat. When not wearing the piece, it is best to keep it in it's box, but with the tissue paper not pressed against the paint.
Vitreous enamel
Vitreous enamel is glass which has been fired onto the metal surface. Care should be taken not to drop, apply force or scratch the surface. It can be cleaned with a light soapy water and damp lint free cloth.
Wood
Wood is finished with oil or wax. Avoid immersing any wood in water or exposing it to direct sunlight or high temperatures for long periods of time. If it gets wet, allow to dry and reseal with a little Renaissance Wax using a lint free cloth.
Breaded silk and textiles
It is best to avoid getting these dirty, so it is recommend to remove any jewellery before cooking or participating in an activity which could soil or stain the textiles. If a piece does need cleaning and you can avoid any other materials, it can be lightly hand-washed in a mild detergent suitable for silks. Please try and avoid excessive rubbing or contact with abrasive materials.
Acrylic
Acrylic is fairly hard wearing but please avoid it getting scratched by other abrasive materials. It can be cleaned with a damp lint free cloth.
Precious, semi-precious stones and glass beads
These can be cleaned with a damp lint free cloth or where possible avoiding other materials a soft toothbrush and warm soapy water.
If you have any queries please contact us directly.