Jewelry Care & Cleaning
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Gold-filled items are meticulously crafted by bonding a solid layer of gold to a base metal, typically jeweler's brass, using heat and pressure. To be classified as gold-filled, the gold layer must constitute at least 5% or 1/20th of the item's total weight.
Unlike gold plating, which may wear off over time, the mechanical bonding process ensures that the gold layer in gold-filled jewelry remains durable and resistant to fading or rubbing. Additionally, gold-filled jewelry boasts tarnish resistance, making it a sought-after and cost-effective alternative to solid gold.
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Gold-filled jewelry maintains its shine and brilliance over time due to its unique construction. Unlike mere plating, where a thin layer of gold is applied, gold-filled jewelry undergoes a pressure bonding process. This results in a thick layer of gold that acts as a protective barrier against tarnish and oxidation.
Although gold-filled jewelry is inherently tarnish-resistant, it's essential to recognize that tarnishing can still occur, particularly under certain environmental conditions or if not properly cared for. Factors such as exposure to moisture, chemicals, perspiration, and air pollutants can contribute to tarnishing.
To preserve the quality of your gold-filled pieces, we recommend storing them in an airtight bag when not in use for extended periods. Should tarnishing occur, restoring their luster is simple – a gentle cleansing with mild soap and water or a polishing cloth will easily rejuvenate their shine.
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Gold-filled jewelry is perfect for daily wear, offering unparalleled durability and longevity. Unlike gold-plated pieces, you can confidently shower and even sleep in gold-filled jewelry without worrying about the gold rubbing or flaking off.
While gold-filled jewelry typically requires minimal cleaning, daily wear may lead to the accumulation of dirt and dust on the pieces. Don't fret! We'll provide you with expert tips on cleaning your jewelry effectively and offer guidance on what to avoid to ensure your pieces retain their beauty for years to come.
Cleaning gold-filled jewelry:
Use mild soap and lukewarm water and soak your piece in the solution for 5 minutes.
Gently scrub your piece with a soft-bristled toothbrush or with your fingers. Make sure to really focus on the areas with the most build-up.
Gently pat your piece dry with a soft cloth.
Rinse and repeat if needed.
Day-to-day preventative care:
Avoiding certain things will help prolong its lifetime and shine. Here are some guidelines to follow:
Don't apply harsh chemicals directly on the pieces (e.g. hand sanitizer, lotion, perfume, sunscreen). If you are applying these on your body, put your jewelry on after everything is applied.
Avoid pools and hot tubs, as chlorine will damage the gold.
Avoid swimming in the ocean, as salt water can harm the gold.
When you are not wearing your gold-filled jewelry, store it in a sealed zip-lock bag or jewelry case.
If you do accidentally do these a few times, don't worry! Your pieces are very durable. But - if you follow these guidelines, your pieces will last longer.
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Avoid Wearing Silver in The Shower: Water can oxidize silver, causing it to tarnish.
Avoid Pools: Chlorine and other chemicals can damage most types of jewelry.
Avoid Hot Tubs or Springs: There are often chemicals in hot tubs. Springs usually have sulfur that can tarnish silver.
Avoid Wearing Silver in The Shower: Water can oxidize silver, causing it to tarnish.
Avoid Pools: Chlorine and other chemicals can damage most types of jewelry.
Avoid Hot Tubs or Springs: There are often chemicals in hot tubs. Springs usually have sulfur that can tarnish silver.
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Silver care includes routine cleanings. Regular wear of jewelry will result in a buildup of oils, dust, and makeup. The following shows you how to care for silver jewelry.
Warm Water and Mild Dish Soap: Learning how to clean sterling silver jewelry is simple — just use mild dish soap and warm water. This is a gentle yet effective way to clean silver.
Try Water and Baking Soda: Some sterling silver care and cleaning tips suggest using baking soda to keep your jewelry looking its best.
Use Microfiber Cloths: Knowing how to take care of sterling silver, or any type of silver, includes using microfiber cloths for cleaning and polishing.
HOW TO STORE SILVER JEWELRY
Storing jewelry is often the last thing people think of, but it's important for understanding how to maintain silver. To know how to store silver jewelry, you just need to take the following steps:
Store it in a Cool and Dry Place: How to care for sterling silver jewelry begins by keeping it in individual bags, in a cool, dry compartment.
Try Adding Chalk to Your Storage Container: If you’re looking for creative tips on how to keep sterling silver jewelry from tarnishing, a piece of chalk can help absorb moisture.