Jewelry Care

We recommend storing your jewelry in a clean, dry location within a jewelry box or bag. Careful storage can help prevent damage to metal and gemstones. For some pieces, you may choose to use an airtight container like a ziplock bag, to help slow the tarnishing of metal. Carbon squares or silica packets (like those found in shoe boxes) can further help to absorb moisture if placed in the bag or box with your jewelry. 

Please be aware that cleaning supplies, lotions, perfumes, sunblock and cosmetics can discolor both gemstones and metals. 

Removing your jewelry before bathing, swimming, hot tubbing, gardening and exercising will further help to preserve your jewelry. 

STERLING SILVER JEWELRY 

Sterling silver tarnishes naturally over time. A polishing cloth and soft bristle toothbrush can be used to brighten and restore silver. If using a polishing cloth, clean the silver only and avoid contact with gemstones as many stones are delicate and can be scratched. 

Brushed sterling silver jewelry has a matte appearance. A buffing pad or fine grade sand paper, can help to restore the finish of matte pieces once they become shiny. 

OXIDIZED SILVER JEWELRY

Oxidized sterling silver is a treatment jewelers use to blacken silver. Over time, the black hue will grow more lustrous and naturally lighten with wear. If needed, clean gently with mild soap and water, follow by thoroughly drying with a soft cloth.

BRASS & COPPER JEWELRY

For tarnished brass or copper jewelry, a five minute soak in a light coat of ketchup before you wash, rinse and dry, can restore the metal. (The acidity in the tomatoes helps to take the oxidation off.)

BRONZE JEWELRY

Bronze (such as Michael Michaud's hand patinaed jewelry line) can be cleaned gently with soap and water. 

GOLD VERMEIL JEWELRY

Gold vermeil is a solid layer of gold over a base of sterling silver. 

To clean vermeil, use warm water and a gentle bleach-free liquid soap (such as Dawn liquid detergent) mixed with baking soda to create a paste. Let jewelry sit for a few minutes in this solution. Clean gently with a soft toothbrush or cloth, rinse well, and dry with paper towel, cloth or a hairdryer.  

HAND KNOTTED GEMSTONE & PEARL SILK NECKLACES

Silk is a natural fiber that is traditionally used by jewelers when stringing pearls and gemstones due to the beautiful way it drapes when worn. Unlike metal or nylon, which can be stiff, gems strung on silk sway and move with the wearer. Since silk is an organic fiber, necklaces strung on silk will need to be restrung periodically, depending on wear. To preserve your hand knotted silk necklace, store flat in a dry location and clean stones with a soft cloth. If the silk becomes wet, please lay flat and allow to thoroughly dry.