CARE TIPS

Macrame



Macramé jewelry is made from high-quality waxed polyester thread. Although the thread is water-resistant, I recommend removing it when showering or swimming at the beach or pool. Pool water contains chlorine and other chemicals that could damage the thread, the elements that decorate the piece, and the mineral itself. When not wearing the jewelry, store it in the cotton bag it came in and in a place where the temperature and direct light cannot continuously affect it. Jewelry may have small decorative elements such as silver or gold-plated beads.

care tips

Sterling silver and 18kt gold plated.


The silver I work with is 925 Sterling Silver. The 'Sterling Silver' means that the silver itself is made from an alloy of pure silver (92.5%) and the rest, copper to give the metal enough consistency to create jewelry since in its natural state, silver is very malleable.

Over time, silver also oxidizes, giving it a dull, matte, and sometimes dark, aged appearance. I recommend using a chamois leather or some liquid silver cleaner, and using a cotton swab, apply it to the silver details of the jewelry.

The small beads I use in all my jewelry are 925 sterling silver with a 0.5-micron 18kt gold plating. They maintain their shine for a long time under normal conditions. If you notice any loss of shine, gently rub them with a chamois leather to prevent tarnishing.

CARE TIPS

Brass


Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc. I occasionally use it as a metal setting for gems. I don't recommend contact with water. Over time, like other metals, even precious ones, brass can darken or lose its luster when exposed to oxygen in the air.

Another important factor is the pH of the skin, acidic sweating, produced by an acidic pH (influenced by the type of food we consume) can deteriorate our jewelry.

Also, if we apply certain cosmetics, such as creams or perfumes, to our skin, they can react with the brass and damage it. In any case, use a solution of baking soda and lemon juice, then gently rub the areas you feel have deteriorated with a cotton swab. If the metal catches a mineral while cleaning, do so with patience and care, as you could damage the crystal. Finish this cleaning ritual with a metal-cleaning cloth to restore its original shine.