Nurturing Your Jewelry: Crucial Guidelines to Maintain Your Valuables
Maintaining the Beauty and Longevity of Sustainable Jewelry
For jewelry that not only makes a statement but also holds sentimental value, proper care is essential to preserve its radiance and longevity while reducing the need for replacements. As advocates for eco-friendly jewelry, this guide offers essential advice for maintaining your precious sustainable pieces.
Storing Your Jewelry Properly
The key to preventing damage lies in storage. Each piece should be kept separate to prevent scratches and tangling, especially if composed of different metals. Jewelry boxes with individual compartments or fabric pouches are ideal for this purpose, while soft cloth can also provide short-term protection. Avoid storing jewelry in humid environments such as bathrooms, as moisture can lead to tarnishing. Instead, store your jewels with chalk sticks to absorb excess moisture before securing them in a clean and dry state.
Combating Tarnishing
Tarnishing, particularly common in silver jewelry, can be combatted by minimizing exposure to harsh chemicals, beauty products, and certain foods, which may accelerate the process. Be mindful of your jewelry when participating in activities such as swimming or exercising, as sweat and chlorine can hasten tarnishing. Regular cleaning is crucial for maintaining the sheen of your jewels.
Cleaning Your Sustainable Jewelry
A gentle solution of warm water and mild, eco-friendly soap can effectively clean your jewels. Thoroughly rinse, gently rub with a lint-free cloth, and dry well to avoid damage. For tougher grime, mix baking soda with warm water to create a paste and gently rub it onto the affected areas before rinsing and drying. Avoid using materials like tissue or paper towels that may scratch delicate surfaces, especially gold jewelry.
For a more sustainable cleaning option, consider using bamboo microfiber cloths, which are soft, durable, washable, and eco-friendly. When purchasing microfiber cloths, opt for ones made from bamboo instead of plastic, as the latter contributes significantly to microplastic pollution.
Untangling Necklaces
Tangled chains can be frustrating but are solvable with patience. Lay the chain flat on a smooth surface and gently tap the knot's center with a pin. Gradually loosen the knot using tweezers or another pin, taking care not to damage the chain.
Inspection and Maintenance
When cleaning your jewelry, take the opportunity to inspect it for damage. Assess stones, clasps, and other components, addressing necessary repairs promptly to avoid costly and potentially devastating losses.
Daily Habits for Jewelry Care
Incorporating simple routines into your daily life can help extend the lifespan of your jewelry. Remove your jewels before bedtime to prevent damage from tossing and turning, and adopt the rule of "last on, first off" to avoid exposing your jewelry to harsh chemicals like perfumes or lotions. Strategically placed ring holders and jewelry dishes can also be useful reminders to remove jewelry before engaging in activities that may cause damage.
By following these tips, you'll ensure your earrings sparkle, your necklaces remain tangles-free, and your jeweler box stays neat and organized. Remember, a little investment in care goes a long way in preserving your beautiful, eco-conscious treasures.
Emily Runc is a London-based jewelry artisan who founded erJ London. She creates high-quality, aesthetically pleasing jewelry with minimal environmental impact, using recycled silver or gold as base metals and caring meticulously for her intricate, handmade pieces at her West London workshop.
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Small businesses and lifestyle enthusiasts can enjoy the illustrious allure of contemporary, eco-friendly fashion by delving into the world of'slow living'. Embracing this chic movement, erJ London, founded by jewelry artisan Emily Runc, boasts a vibrant collection of sustainable jewelry that promotes a harmonious connection between personal style and the environment. Extend your jewelry's longevity through mindful storage, cleaning, and maintenance strategies fit for the discerning, conscientious individual.
Deepen your connection to the slow living experience with other eco-friendly ventures in the realm of fashion-and-beauty and home-and-garden. Nurture your modest, eco-conscious empire while supporting homegrown, small businesses that share your sustainable ethos.
