A small guide to keep your favourites shining

American Diamond (AD) Jewelry

American Diamond jewelry is made with cubic zirconia stones, crafted to shine bright, look like real diamonds, but they do need a little extra love to keep that sparkle alive. With regular wear, tiny dust particles, oils from your skin, or a spritz of perfume can settle on the surface and make them look dull. The good news? A bit of mindful care keeps them glowing for years.

  • Keep it dry when you can: Pools, showers, and even daily chores with water can weaken the setting or leave a film on the stones. It’s best to slip them off before diving into water activities or housework.
  • Last thing you wear, first thing you take off: Always finish applying lotions, perfumes, or hairspray before putting on your AD jewelry. Chemicals in these can dim their shine.
  • Gentle wipe after use: A quick buff with a soft microfiber or cotton cloth removes sweat, fingerprints, and everyday dust.
  • When deeper cleaning is needed: Mix a drop of mild soap with lukewarm water, dip a soft brush (like a baby toothbrush) into it, and lightly sweep over the stones to lift away grime. Rinse briefly with clean water and pat dry with a soft cloth.
  • Store with care: Give each piece its own soft pouch or compartment so they don’t rub against each other and cause scratches.
  • Check occasionally: Look out for loose stones or settings. A quick fix at the jeweler saves the heartbreak of losing a piece.
  • Rotate your jewelry: Letting them rest between wears keeps the plating and stones in better condition.

 

Anti-Tarnish Jewelry

Anti-tarnish jewelry is designed to hold its shine for longer than regular fashion pieces, but that doesn’t mean it’s completely maintenance-free. Every day exposure to moisture, perfumes, or even the way you store them can slowly affect their finish. A little care goes a long way in keeping them looking as good as new.

  • Keep them away from water: Even though they resist tarnish better than most, it’s best to avoid showers, swimming, or workouts while wearing them.
  • Watch out for chemicals: Perfumes, lotions, deodorants, and hair sprays can leave residue that dulls the surface. Always let your products dry before putting on your jewelry.
  • Quick wipe after wear: Use a soft cotton or microfiber cloth to gently remove sweat and oils before storing. This simple step keeps the surface shiny.
  • Store them wisely: Where you keep your jewelry makes all the difference. Slip each piece into a zip-lock pouch or an anti-tarnish bag, and place them in a fabric-lined box if you have one. Keep them away from damp corners (like bathrooms), since humidity is the fastest way to lose their shine.
  • Avoid mixing metals: Don’t store anti-tarnish pieces with other types of jewelry, such as brass or steel, as different metals can react and damage the finish.
  • Rotate your favorites: Wearing the same piece every single day speeds up natural wear. Give your jewelry a little break now and then.

Oxidized Jewelry

Oxidized jewelry carries its unique antique charm, usually a treated sterling silver finish that creates a dark, expressive patina. To preserve this distinct look, it needs gentle, thoughtful care. Exposure to moisture, harsh cleaners, or polishing can fade or remove that beautiful finish. Here’s how to care for it properly:

  • Skip polishing products: Never use silver polish, dips, or abrasive cloths. They can strip away the oxidized finish. Instead, clean only when necessary with a dry, soft cloth.
  • Wipe with care: Use a soft, lint-free cloth. If deeper cleaning is needed, lightly moisten the cloth with warm water and a tiny drop of mild soap, then gently wipe, rinse quickly, and dry thoroughly. Avoid rubbing the darkened patina.
  • Store smartly: Keep pieces in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Airtight pouches with anti-tarnish strips or sealed zip bags can slow unwanted changes to the finish.
  • No more is more: Avoid harsh cleaners or immersing in water; even gentle solutions can damage the finish if not handled correctly.
  • Let the patina be loved: The aged, darkened finish is the special appeal. Too much cleaning or polishing can diminish that character, so treat it with respect.