Care instructions - How to care for and maintain your handmade jewelry

How to care for your handmade jewellery from Opal

Do you want to ensure your handmade jewellery from Opal stays beautiful for many years? Here's a short guide on how to best care for your jewellery. If you have any questions, you are always welcome to contact me at info@opalsmykker.com 🤍

 

Sterling Silver (925 silver)

Sterling silver is a classic, durable material, but it can oxidize over time and darken in color. With proper care, however, you can maintain its beautiful shine.

 

Storage:

- Store the jewellery in an airtight bag, such as a zip-lock bag, or a jewellery box with a soft lining.

- Avoid humid environments – never store silver jewellery in the bathroom.

 

Cleaning:

- Use a soft silver polishing cloth to remove oxidation and restore the shine.

- For lighter cleaning: Make a solution of lukewarm water and mild soap, and gently dab the jewellery with a soft cloth or brush.

- Rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly.

- Avoid chemicals, perfumes, and cleaning agents – they can damage the silver surface.

 

Gold-plated Silver (Gold-plated 925 silver)

Gold-plated jewellery has a thin layer of gold, which requires extra gentleness to prevent the gold from wearing off.

 

Storage:

- Store each gold-plated piece of jewellery separately – preferably in a soft cloth pouch or jewellery box.

- Avoid close contact with other jewellery, as this can cause scratches on the plating.

 

Cleaning:

- Never use silver or metal cleaner – it can remove the gold plating.

- Gently polish with a clean, soft cloth – for example, a microfibre cloth.

- If the jewellery needs more cleaning, use a slightly dampened, soft cloth with mild soap, and immediately dry with a dry cloth.

 

Usage:

- Take off the jewellery before washing your hands, bathing, exercising, or using hand sanitiser.

- Avoid perfume, hair products, and creams directly on the jewellery – apply them first and wait until your skin is dry.

Freshwater Pearls

Freshwater pearls are natural and porous – therefore, they are sensitive to chemicals and drying out.

 

Storage:

- Lay pearl jewellery flat and separately in a soft pouch or lined box to avoid scratches and maintain their shape.

- Avoid hanging pearl necklaces – this can stretch the string over time.

 

Cleaning:

- Gently wipe pearls with a soft, damp cloth after use, especially if they have been in contact with perspiration.

- Avoid water, soap, and chemicals – pearls cannot withstand cleaning agents.

- Wear them regularly – pearls benefit from the moisture of the skin, which helps maintain their lustre.

 

 

Crystals

Crystals can be hard, but many are sensitive to impact and chemicals.

 

Storage:

- Store crystal jewellery separately, preferably in small cloth bags to prevent scratches.

- Avoid direct sunlight and humid environments, which can affect color and shine.

 

Cleaning:

- Gently wipe them with a dry and soft cloth – preferably microfibre.

- Never use water, cleaning agents, or chemicals, as some crystals are porous and can be damaged.

 

 

General tips:

- Always remove jewellery before sleeping, bathing, cleaning, or exercising.

- Use your jewellery with care – they are handmade with love and deserve attention.

- Regularly check clasps and chains for wear – especially if you wear the jewellery daily.

 

 

Follow these care tips to keep your handmade jewellery beautiful and durable. With proper care, your jewellery will shine for many years to come! 🌟