Handmade jewelry is a small work of art — each piece carries the creativity and passion of the maker. To enjoy its beauty for years, it’s essential to know how to care for it properly. Every material has its needs, so I’ve prepared a detailed guide to help you take care of each piece!
Jewelry with natural stones
Avoid:
Prolonged contact with water (especially salt or chlorinated water).
Strong detergents and perfumes.
Extreme temperatures that can cause stones to crack (e.g., amethyst or opal).
Storage tips:
Store in separate fabric pouches or compartments to prevent stones from chipping.
Add a silica gel packet to absorb moisture.
Polymer clay jewelry
Avoid:
Heavy pressure and falls — clay can chip or break.
Direct contact with cosmetics and perfumes.
Storage tips:
Keep in flat boxes lined with soft fabric.
Avoid leaving in direct sunlight to prevent color fading.
Resin jewelry
Avoid:
UV exposure, which can cause resin to yellow over time.
Sharp objects that may scratch the surface.
Storage tips:
Store in closed boxes away from sunlight.
Minor scratches can be buffed out with a resin polish.
Embroidered and beaded jewelry
Avoid:
Moisture and dirt — threads and fabrics can stain or fray.
Heavy objects that could crush delicate elements.
Storage tips:
Store flat in sturdy boxes.
Cardboard organizers with separate compartments work we
Metal jewelry
Avoid:
Water, which can accelerate tarnishing or rust.
Contact with perfumes, creams, and hair sprays.
Storage tips:
Keep in linen or velvet pouches.
Silver jewelry benefits from being stored in an airtight box with anti-tarnish strips.
General jewelry enemies — what to avoid?
Cosmetics: Perfumes, lotions, and hairsprays can tarnish metals, weaken adhesives, and cause stones to lose their luster.
Water: Chlorinated or salt water can corrode metal and damage delicate materials like pearls or stones.
Sweat: The acids in sweat can accelerate tarnishing and discoloration, especially in copper or brass jewelry.
Sleeping in jewelry: Movements during sleep can bend, break, or loosen settings, and skin oils can build up on the surface.
Sports and physical activity: Jewelry can snag, break, or cause injury during workouts. Sweat can also degrade materials faster.
Why should you remove jewelry before sleeping or exercising?
Wearing jewelry to bed or during physical activities might seem harmless, but it can significantly impact its longevity and your hygiene:
Damage risk: Pieces can bend, break, or lose stones due to pressure or friction.
Bacteria buildup: Sweat, dead skin, and body oils accumulate in crevices, creating a breeding ground for bacteria, which can irritate the skin or cause infections.
Skin irritation: Constant friction from jewelry during sleep or workouts can cause rashes, redness, or skin sensitivity.
Questions to ask your seller:
What materials were used to make the jewelry? (Some components might be more delicate.)
Has the jewelry been sealed or coated for extra durability?
Are there any recommended cleaning products or techniques for this specific material?
How to store jewelry properly?
The way you store your jewelry is just as important as how you wear it. Proper storage helps prevent scratches, tarnishing, and deformation:
Separate compartments: Store each piece separately to avoid tangling, scratches, or stone damage.
Soft linings: Use jewelry boxes lined with velvet or silk to protect delicate surfaces.
Anti-tarnish solutions: For silver or metal pieces, use airtight containers with anti-tarnish strips or cloths.
Avoid humid environments: Keep your jewelry away from bathrooms or damp areas to prevent moisture damage.
Taking care of handmade jewelry doesn’t have to be complicated — a little attention goes a long way. Treat your pieces like tiny treasures, and they will reward you with timeless beauty for years to come.