Guide: Care & Maintenance
Daily habits and simple routines that keep your shine.
A little care goes a long way. Follow these quick routines to minimize wear, keep plating intact, and make stainless and silver pieces look new for longer.
Everyday Care
- Wear jewelry after skincare, perfume, and hair products.
- Wipe with a soft microfiber after each wear.
- Store pieces separately in dry pouches/zip bags.
- Swim, shower, or work out in plated pieces.
- Leave chains in bathrooms or direct sun.
- Toss jewelry together—scratches happen fast.
Metal-Specific Care
Highly durable and moisture-tolerant. Rinse sweat/salt promptly and dry. PVD color holds well—still avoid abrasives.
Weekly wipe; monthly soap rinse.
Keep dry. Limit friction (stack thoughtfully). Use only a dry cloth; avoid soaking. Expect re-plating with heavy use.
Treat as “occasion wear” to extend life.
May oxidize—polish cloth restores shine. Store in anti-tarnish bags. Mild soap is OK; dry fully.
Consider rhodium-plated silver for lower upkeep.
Quick Clean Recipes
- Mix a drop of mild soap with lukewarm water.
- Dip soft cloth (or soft brush for chains), wipe gently.
- Rinse briefly, pat dry, then air-dry fully.
For plated pieces, skip soaking; use a damp cloth only.
- Use a silver polishing cloth on dark areas.
- Rinse quickly if residue remains; dry completely.
- Store in anti-tarnish pouch with silica gel.
Avoid baking soda/aluminum hacks on plated items.
Smart Storage
Great for silver—add silica gel.
Stops tangling and micro-scratches.
Avoid bathrooms and sunny windowsills.
Care Schedule
- Microfiber wipe; return to pouch.
- Check clasps and kinks in chains.
- Soap-and-water refresh (stainless/silver).
- Inspect plating; reduce friction points.
- Professional re-plate for high-wear favorites.
- Replace worn earring backs and clasps.
Travel Tips
- Use a flat travel case with separators.
- Thread chains through straws or cards to prevent tangles.
- Carry-on only; avoid checked-bag pressure.
- Remove plated pieces before water activities.
- Rinse stainless after salt/chlorine; dry fully.
- Reapply SPF before jewelry goes back on.
When to Re-plate
If you notice a brassy undertone, matte patches, or color fade on high-touch areas (ring undersides, chain clasp), it’s time to re-plate. Heavy daily wear can require service every 6–12 months; occasional wear lasts longer.
FAQs
Can I work out in my jewelry?
Avoid for plated pieces—sweat + friction = faster wear. Stainless can handle more, but rinse and dry promptly.
How do I fix a tangled chain?
Lay on a flat surface, add a drop of baby oil, and tease apart with two pins. Clean and dry after.
What if my skin is sensitive?
Choose 316L stainless, titanium posts, or rhodium-plated silver. Look for “nickel-free” labels.
Explore low-maintenance chains, hoops, and stacks curated by Elvarra.