Bronze, silver, and even gold can naturally oxidize over time, because they all contain copper. When copper is exposed to air and moisture, it can cause the metal to darken or develop a patina. This is a normal process, and your jewelry can easily be refreshed by gently polishing it with a soft polishing cloth. I recommend a Sunshine Cloth!

To slow tarnishing, store your jewelry in a dry environment when you’re not wearing it, preferably in the box or bag that came with your order. Storing all your jewelry together in one big pile can actually speed up oxidation. Avoid prolonged exposure to sweat, sulfur, and chlorine, as these can also accelerate tarnishing.

It’s best to remove your jewelry before swimming or showering. Soap and shower grime can build up over time, leaving your gemstones and metal looking dull. You can absolutely wash your hands while wearing your rings, but be sure to dry your fingers and rings thoroughly, especially underneath. I recommend keeping a small jewelry dish next to your sink for quick and easy storage while washing your hands.

If you love the natural, lived-in look of these metals, there’s no need to take these extra steps! These metals have been treasured for centuries for their beautiful, naturally aged patinas.

These metals contain copper so some people may notice a green hue on their skin after wear. This reaction is harmless and not an allergic response unless it’s accompanied by itchy bumps. The discoloration happens when copper reacts with moisture and your skin’s natural pH.

Your skin’s pH can change due to factors such as hormones, hydration levels, and stress. So you may sometimes notice the green one day and it’s gone the next. While it may be aesthetically inconvenient, copper absorption is not harmful and copper has long been worn in jewelry for its potential wellness benefits. People with arthritis will often wear copper rings and bracelets to reduce inflammation.

Following the steps above in the “Care for Bronze” tab can help minimize the green. With continued wear, many people find that their skin gradually adapts and the green becomes less noticeable. If you would prefer to prevent it entirely, you can apply a thin layer of clear nail polish to the inside of the ring band (avoiding any stones). This creates a barrier between the metal and your skin and will not harm the jewelry.

Precious gemstones require thoughtful care to maintain their beauty over time. Store gemstone jewelry out of direct sunlight. Prolonged exposure to strong sunlight can gradually fade the color of many stones.

Keep gemstone jewelry away from harsh chemicals such as hand sanitizer, perfume, chlorine, and hairspray. It is best to apply these products before putting on your jewelry. Soap and shower grime can build up over time, leaving your gemstones looking dull.

We also recommend removing your jewelry during heavy physical work, exercise, or activities where the stones could be struck or scratched. Even durable gemstones can chip if hit with enough force.

Softer gemstones such as opal, peridot, quartz, garnet, turquoise, moonstone and pearls are more delicate and can crack or become damaged by sudden or extreme temperature changes. To better understand the hardness of your gemstones, you can refer to the Mohs Hardness Scale.

Gently wiping the stones with a soft cloth after wear helps remove natural oils, lotions, and residue that can build up over time and dull the surface of the stones. Proper storage and gentle cleaning will help preserve the brilliance and longevity of your jewelry.