Jewelry Care
Sterling silver and gold vermeil are made to be worn every day. A little care keeps every piece bright for years. Here is how to look after your Artefact jewelry.
Day-to-day care
- Put your jewelry on last, after perfume, lotion and hairspray have dried.
- Take it off before swimming, showering, bathing, cleaning or exercise.
- Keep it away from chlorine, bleach and household cleaning products.
- Wipe each piece with a soft, dry cloth after wearing to remove oils and moisture.
- Store every piece separately in its Artefact pouch or box so pieces don't scratch each other.
Cleaning your sterling silver
- Rinse the piece in lukewarm water with a drop of mild, unscented soap.
- Gently clean around the stones and prongs with a very soft brush.
- Rinse in clean water and pat completely dry with a lint-free cloth.
- Buff lightly with a silver polishing cloth to bring back the shine.
Frequently asked questions
Does sterling silver tarnish?
Yes. Tarnish is a natural darkening that happens when silver reacts with air, moisture and sulphur. It speeds up with humidity, sweat, perfume, chlorine and some foods such as eggs and onions. Wearing your silver often actually helps, because gentle contact with skin slows tarnish. Tarnish is on the surface only and can be removed with a polishing cloth.
How should I store my jewelry?
Keep each piece clean, dry and separate, in its pouch or a lined jewelry box. Avoid bathrooms and other humid places. A small silica gel sachet in your jewelry box helps absorb moisture. Keep silver away from rubber bands and rubber-backed surfaces, which can cause tarnish.
How often should I polish?
Only when you see tarnish. A quick buff with a silver polishing cloth is usually enough. Avoid abrasive pastes and dips, as they can wear down fine details and dull stones.
How do I care for gold vermeil?
Vermeil is a layer of gold over sterling silver. Treat it gently: avoid water, perfume and friction, and never use a silver polishing cloth or polish, which can remove the gold layer. Wipe with a soft, dry cloth after wearing and store separately.
How do I care for my gemstones?
Sapphires are very hard and hold up well to daily wear. Aquamarine and topaz are durable but can chip with a hard knock, and should be kept away from sudden temperature changes. Clean all of them with lukewarm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners.
How do I care for pearls?
Pearls are soft and sensitive to chemicals. Put them on last, take them off first, and wipe them with a soft, slightly damp cloth after wearing. Never soak pearls or use soap, polish, ultrasonic or steam cleaners. Store them flat and apart from other jewelry.
Need help with a piece?
If a stone feels loose, a clasp isn't closing or you have any question about caring for your jewelry, contact us and we'll be happy to help.