We try to use high quality and lead-free metals/materials in our fashion jewelry. But even the best materials can tarnish/discolour if exposed to the right conditions.

To help maximize the lifespan of your piece, you may wish to follow some of these general care tips: 

 

“Last on, First off” 

Put your fashion jewelry on as a final touch after you put on your clothes, and make sure it is the first thing you take off at the end of the day.

 

Store your jewelry in a clean, dry place

Moisture can affect the beauty of your jewelry, so keeping it dry and scratch free is essential in helping to maintain its beauty and to minimize the risk of it tarnishing.

An airtight container/bag (with the air squeezed out) or the use of Anti-tarnish paper can help. Try to avoid exposure to wood or chemically treated surfaces, as it can stain or speed up the tarnishing process.

 

Avoid wearing while doing household chores or certain leisure activities

Harsh household cleaners and chlorinated water – from leisure activities such as swimming, exercising or spa time – can react with the metals in your jewelry causing it to tarnish.

The sweat from your skin (from general exercise, rigorous cleaning etc) can also cause a chemical reaction, causing the jewelry to tarnish and to leave behind traces of green on your skin.

 

Avoid wearing while applying beauty products

Hairspray, makeup, lotions, and perfume can often be damaging to certain types of metals and semi-precious stones. By waiting until you are done your beauty routine and until everything is dry/set, you can help minimize potential damage. 

 

Avoid Overuse

Fashion jewelry is not meant to be worn every day, as it could lead to discoloration – wearing it occasionally will give it a longer life.

Likewise, storing in a dark place is best, as some semi-precious stones/gemstones will become dull/fade when exposed to too much light.

 

How to Clean:

At the end of the day, it is best to wipe your jewelry with a soft microfiber/anti-tarnish cloth before storing. This will help remove any remnants of moisture, oils, dirt/debris, or dust from the day, and should minimize the need to clean with water. 

 

If a simple "wipe-down" doesn't work, the following method has worked for us when receiving some of our reclaimed materials: 

1. Add a few drops of gentle dish soap (like Dawn) to cool water to create a cleaning solution.
2. Dip a soft-bristled toothbrush/soft cloth into the solution, then gently scrub away any smudges or grime.
3. Rinse away with a bit of cold water, avoiding submerging the piece completely.
4. Wipe/polish with a dry soft cloth until completely dry.

 

We have used this process on our reclaimed semi-precious stones, glass & plated metals. But it is best to first test a small section of the jewelry before cleaning it in its entirety.

We also don’t recommend using any pre-made polishing agents, since they can sometimes be harsher.

Please note: the aforementioned method of cleaning was gentle enough for most materials we received second-hand, but this doesn't mean it will work for you. If damage does occur while following these steps, Ruby & Revival Studio shall not be held liable.