Fine Jewelry Care Guide
Your handcrafted jewelry deserves the same care and attention that went into creating it. This guide will help you maintain the beauty and longevity of your sterling silver and 18k gold vermeil pieces.
Quick Reference Care Summary
Daily Habits:
Put jewelry on last, take off first
Store pieces separately to prevent scratching
Clean gently with soft, dry cloth after each wear
What to Avoid:
Water, perfumes, and lotions when wearing jewelry
Harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners
Storing pieces together without protection
Understanding Your Materials
Sterling Silver (925)
Sterling silver contains 92.5% pure silver, making it both beautiful and durable for everyday wear. However, it naturally tarnishes when exposed to air and moisture—this is completely normal and reversible.
18k Gold Vermeil
Gold vermeil is a thick layer (2.5 microns) of 18k solid gold over sterling silver. It offers the luxury look of gold with better durability than standard gold plating, but requires gentle care to maintain its finish.
Daily Care Routine
The Golden Rule: Last On, First Off
Always put your jewelry on after applying makeup, perfume, and lotions. Remove it before showering, swimming, or doing household chores.
After Each Wear
Gently wipe pieces with a soft, lint-free cloth
Store immediately in a dry place
Keep pieces separated to prevent scratching
What Your Jewelry Loves
Dry storage in individual pouches or compartments
Gentle handling when putting on and removing
Regular gentle cleaning to prevent buildup
What Your Jewelry Hates
Moisture from showers, pools, or humid environments
Chemicals in perfumes, lotions, and cleaning products
Rough surfaces that can scratch or damage
Direct sunlight for extended periods
Cleaning Your Sterling Silver
For Light Tarnishing
Polishing cloth method: Use a jewelry polishing cloth designed for silver
Gentle soap solution: Mix warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap
Soft brush technique: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush for textured pieces
Rinse and dry: Always rinse thoroughly and dry completely
For Heavy Tarnishing
Line a bowl with aluminum foil
Add hot water and a tablespoon of baking soda
Place jewelry in solution for 2-3 minutes
Remove, rinse with cool water, and dry immediately
Polish with a soft cloth
Never use: Toothpaste, baking soda paste, or harsh chemicals directly on your jewelry.
Caring for Gold Vermeil
Daily Maintenance
Gold vermeil requires gentler care than solid gold since it's a plated surface:
Soft cloth only: Use a lint-free jewelry cloth
Avoid water: Never submerge in water or cleaning solutions
Gentle pressure: Light buffing motions only
Professional cleaning: When in doubt, consult a professional
Warning Signs
Discoloration: May indicate wear of the gold layer
Green marks: Usually from the underlying silver reacting with moisture
Dullness: Often just needs gentle polishing
Storage Solutions
Individual Protection
Jewelry pouches: Soft fabric bags for each piece
Compartmentalized boxes: Separate sections prevent scratching
Anti-tarnish strips: Add these to storage areas for silver pieces
Environmental Factors
Low humidity: Use silica gel packets in storage areas
Temperature stable: Avoid extreme temperature changes
Away from sunlight: Direct light can affect some gemstones
Professional Maintenance
When to See a Professional
Significant tarnishing that home methods can't resolve
Loose stones or damaged settings
Bent or damaged pieces
Annual checkups for frequently worn pieces
What to Expect
Professional jewelers can:
Deep clean without damaging plating
Repair minor damage
Re-plate gold vermeil when needed
Inspect for potential issues
Troubleshooting Common Issues
"My silver turned black!"
This is normal tarnishing. Use the cleaning methods above, starting with the gentlest approach.
"My gold vermeil is changing color!"
This may indicate wear of the gold layer. Avoid water and chemicals, and consider professional assessment.
"My jewelry left marks on my skin!"
This can happen when jewelry gets wet or if you have sensitive skin. Ensure pieces are completely dry before wearing.
Travel Care Tips
Packing Your Jewelry
Individual wrapping: Use soft cloth or jewelry rolls
Secure storage: Keep in carry-on luggage when possible
Avoid checking: Changes in pressure and temperature can affect pieces
Destination Care
Remove before swimming: Chlorine and salt water damage jewelry
Limit sun exposure: UV rays can affect some materials
Clean after use: Beach sand and sunscreen can be abrasive
Investment Protection
Why Proper Care Matters
Maintains value: Well-cared-for pieces retain their worth
Preserves beauty: Regular maintenance keeps jewelry looking new
Supports artisans: Caring for handcrafted pieces honors the maker's work
Extends lifespan: Proper care can make jewelry last generations
The Mira Shoppe Commitment
Every piece in our collection is designed for longevity. By following these care guidelines, you're not just maintaining your jewelry—you're preserving the artisan craftsmanship and continuing the story of empowerment that each piece represents.
Need Help?
If you have questions about caring for your specific pieces or notice any issues, don't hesitate to reach out. We're here to help you keep your jewelry looking beautiful for years to come.
Remember: A little daily care goes a long way in preserving the beauty and meaning of your handcrafted jewelry.
