Basic Jewelry Care Guidelines for

Sterling Silver, 14K Gold, and 14K Gold Filled:


• Avoid exposing your jewelry to harsh chemicals, such as chlorine, bleach, or cleaning agents, as they can cause discoloration and damage.
• Store your jewelry in a cool, dry place, preferably in an airtight bag or container to prevent tarnishing and scratches.
• Regularly clean your jewelry with a soft polishing cloth to remove any dirt, oils, or fingerprints. Avoid using tissue paper or paper towels, as they can scratch the surface.

If your silver jewelry requires a deeper clean, you can use a mild soap and warm water solution. Gently scrub the jewelry with a soft-bristled toothbrush, rinse thoroughly, and pat dry with a clean cloth and let it dry completely before storing.

Sterling Silver:

• It's important to note that sterling silver jewelry will naturally tarnish over time. Tarnishing occurs as a chemical reaction with sulfur particles in the air.

• Tarnishing is not permanent and can be easily addressed. You can use a silver polishing cloth or a silver cleaning solution to restore the shine and luster of your sterling silver pieces.

• The rate of tarnishing may vary depending on the environment. Sterling silver jewelry tends to tarnish faster in areas with high humidity and air pollution, as well as when exposed to certain elements.

• Regular cleaning and proper storage in an airtight bag or container can help slow down the tarnishing process and keep your sterling silver jewelry looking its best.

Oxidized Sterling Silver:

• Oxidized silver refers to 925 sterling silver that has undergone a deliberate darkening process through chemical treatment to create a beautiful gunmetal appearance, and add depth and character to the design.

• Unlike traditional sterling silver, oxidized silver jewelry does not require frequent polishing or cleaning. In fact, cleaning can remove the intentional oxidation. To keep your oxidized jewelry looking its best, you can give it a quick light wipe with a silver polishing cloth now and then to maintain the shine.

• Over time and with wear, depending on the jewelry type and your wearing habits, the oxidation on your jewelry may naturally fade, revealing a silver-colored piece. This gradual fading is a normal characteristic of oxidized silver jewelry, and it contributes to its unique aesthetic.

14K Gold Filled:

Gold-filled items are those which have had a layer of solid 14k gold bonded mechanically to a base metal. Brass is the standard base metal for gold fill (is a base metal for my jewelry), so exercise caution when encountering claims of gold fill over sterling silver, it is probably just plated.

Gold Fill is a more affordable option and the next best thing compared to real gold.

Gold-filled jewelry is much more valuable than gold-plated as it has more than a 100 times the amount of gold. It can be cleaned just like real gold and will last long under normal wear and care.

• 14K gold filled jewelry is more resistant to tarnishing and discoloration compared to gold-plated or gold vermeil pieces. However, proper care is still necessary to ensure its longevity.

• Avoid exposing your gold-filled jewelry to chemicals, moisture, and abrasive materials.

• Clean your gold-filled jewelry using a soft cloth or a mild jewelry cleaner specifically designed for gold.

14K Gold:

• While gold is generally more resistant to tarnishing, it is still essential to protect it from harsh chemicals and abrasive materials.

• Store your gold jewelry separately to prevent scratching and tangling.

• Clean your gold jewelry regularly using a soft, lint-free cloth to remove dirt and oils.

By following these care guidelines and taking the specific considerations for each metal into account, you can ensure that your handmade jewelry maintains its beauty and quality for years to come.


If you have any further questions or concerns regarding the care or maintenance of your jewelry, please feel free to reach out to us. We are here to assist you and ensure that your handmade jewelry remains beautiful and cherished.