Silver & gold jewellery care 101

Handmade jewellery deserves a little love - after all, every piece goes through real tools, real hands, and real hours at the bench. Luckily, caring for silver and gold isn’t complicated; it’s mostly about small habits that will help keep your piece as good as possible.

Silver Care

Sterling silver naturally oxidizes (aka “getting darker”), especially when it sits unused.

Good news: wearing your silver actually keeps it bright. Your skin’s natural oils act like a gentle polisher.

A few quick guidelines:

  • Store silver in an airtight pouch or box.

  • Avoid leaving it in steamy bathrooms (silver hates humidity).

  • If it dulls, rub it with silver polishing cloth works magic in seconds.

 

Gold Care

Gold is more low-maintenance. It doesn’t tarnish, but it can scratch. Especially pieces made of higher karats, which are softer.

A few quick guidelines:

  • Removing it before the gym or heavy lifting.

  • Avoiding lotions and perfumes directly on the metal.

  • Giving it a bath in warm water with a drop of mild soap.

 

Gold-plated jewellery Care

Gold plating is a thin layer of gold on top of other metal, which makes it more sensitive to solid precious metal jewellery.

  • Avoid water & chemicals: Remove before showering, swimming, exercising, or applying perfume, lotion, alcohol or hand sanitiser. 

  • Clean gently: Wipe with a soft dry cloth after wearing. Avoid scrubbing or strong cleaners.

  • Store well: Keep pieces separate in soft pouches; avoid humid places.

  • Reduce friction: Don’t stack, sleep in, or exercise with your jewellery on.

  • Re-plating is normal: Gold plating naturally wears over time and can be refreshed.

Where NOT to Wear Jewellery

Shower? Pool? Sauna?

Your jewellery says: “Please no.”

Chlorine, soaps, saltwater, and sauna heat can all damage metals and gemstones over time, causing a shorter lifespan.

Your fingers often shrink in cold water, which makes it easier to loose your rings without you realising. Definitely be aware of that.

 


If you ever have any specific refurbishment and repair request, send me an email with a photo of your piece. I will reply with a quote and lead time for your repair.