The Complete Guide to Caring for Your Handmade Jewelry

Why Handmade Jewelry Deserves Special Care

When you invest in a handcrafted piece of jewelry, you're acquiring more than an accessory. You're becoming the guardian of someone's artistry. Each wire wrap, each carefully set stone, each delicate chain represents hours of focused intention. At Antiqua, I pour my heart into every creation, and nothing brings me more joy than seeing pieces I made years ago still looking beautiful on their owners.

The good news? With proper care, your handmade jewelry can last for generations. Here's everything you need to know.

Understanding Your Materials

Sterling Silver

Sterling silver (92.5% pure silver) is naturally antibacterial and surprisingly durable. However, it does oxidize when exposed to air and moisture. That's the dark tarnish you sometimes see. This isn't damage; it's a natural process that some collectors actually prefer for its vintage appeal.

Pro tip: Regular wearing actually helps prevent tarnish! Your skin's natural oils create a protective barrier.

Gold-Filled

Gold-filled jewelry contains a thick layer of gold mechanically bonded to a base metal. Unlike gold-plated pieces, gold-filled jewelry can last a lifetime with proper care. It's my go-to choice for clients who want the warmth of gold at a more accessible price point.

Semi-Precious Gemstones

Each stone has its own personality and needs. Soft stones like pearls and opals require gentle handling, while harder stones like garnets and amethysts are more forgiving. Always check the specific care needs for your particular gemstones.

Daily Habits That Protect Your Jewelry

The "Last On, First Off" Rule

Put your jewelry on last after applying:

Lotions and creams
Perfume and hairspray
Sunscreen
Makeup

Remove your jewelry first before:

Showering or bathing
Swimming (especially in chlorinated or salt water)
Exercising
Sleeping
Cleaning with chemicals

Handle with Care

Always pick up necklaces by the clasp, not the pendant
Never yank or pull on delicate chains
Avoid touching gemstones with your fingers (oils can cloud them)

Cleaning Your Jewelry at Home

For Sterling Silver

Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with lukewarm water
Soak for 5-10 minutes
Gently clean with a soft-bristled brush or cloth
Rinse thoroughly with clean water
Pat dry with a lint-free cloth
Polish with a silver polishing cloth for extra shine

For Gold-Filled

Use the same mild soap and water method
Avoid abrasive cloths or brushes
Dry completely before storing

For Gemstones

Pearls: Wipe gently with a damp, soft cloth. Never soak.
Opals: Keep moist with a damp cloth occasionally. Avoid heat.
Garnets & Amethysts: Soap and water are fine.
Turquoise: Wipe only, no soaking.

Proper Storage Matters

How you store your jewelry is just as important as how you clean it.

Best Practices

Store each piece separately to prevent scratching
Use anti-tarnish pouches or strips for silver
Keep in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
Hang necklaces to prevent tangling
Store pearls in breathable fabric, never plastic

What to Avoid

Humid bathrooms
Direct sunlight
Crowded jewelry boxes where pieces rub together
Rubber bands or plastic bags (they accelerate tarnishing)

When to Seek Professional Help

Some situations call for expert intervention:

Deep tarnish that won't respond to home cleaning
Loose gemstones or prongs
Broken clasps or chains
Annual checkups for treasured pieces

At Antiqua, I'm always happy to clean, repair, or refresh pieces from my collection. It's part of the relationship we build when you invest in handcrafted jewelry.

Have questions about caring for a specific piece? Stop by our West Adams studio, or reach out through our contact page. I'm always here to help keep your treasures shining.

Keywords: jewelry care tips, cleaning handmade jewelry, silver jewelry care, gemstone maintenance, artisan jewelry, West Adams Los Angeles