Care & Cleaning





You have just purchased a fine quality piece of handcrafted jewelry. You should know how to care for it to keep it looking like new. If you take care of it, it will last many, many years. Most of my designs are considered "Heritage" pieces for the reason that they can be handed down from generation to generation and will only increase in value if taken care of properly.




*Cleaning*
I highly recommend using a professional jewelry tarnish remover and cleaner to keep your pieces looking their best. I use "Sunshine Products" jewelry tarnish remover/cleaner. It is all natural, contains no ammonia, acids or alcohol. It is biodegradable, environmentally friendly and safe to use on all metals, pearls and stones. I love it and use it on all of my jewelry. She sells it in a paste and also a liquid.
You can find it here:
www.sunshine101.com
You can also use a sterling silver polishing cloth which can be purchased at most stores that sell jewelry, such as Walmart. They are very inexpensive and will last you for many years.
DO NOT use sterling silver dips....TarnX, Connoisseurs, ect....to clean this jewelry. It is too harsh for the stones, shells, wood and pearls on the jewelry. These products are fine for other things, but not for this jewelry. It will ruin your jewelry and use of these products will void your warranty.




*Storing*
How you store your pieces is just as important as cleaning, and can often prevent or delay dirt & tarnishing. Be sure to store each piece separately from each other, to prevent scratching. Sterling Silver will tarnish with exposure to air. The best way to prevent this is to store silver in a pouch or plastic baggie, away from direct sunlight, where the exposure to air is minimized. I store mine in plastic baggies. They come in a variety of sizes and can be purchased at Walmart, AC Moore or Michaels Craft Supplies. Over time, however, most silver will tarnish some. Many jewelry stores sell special anti tarnish bags for sterling silver.
 



 *Care*
Avoid ALL Clorox/cleaning products……especially with the rings……and sulfur water. They will discolor the sterling and ruin the stones. Be sure to put your jewelry on AFTER applying perfume, hairspray, lotions, and cosmetics. Be sure to remove your jewelry BEFORE sleeping, swimming, exercising, or house cleaning. Jewelry can be damaged during these activities.  Store your piece back in the baggie/box you received with purchase.