The Jewelry Care Guide

 

A Little Care Goes a Long Way.

Every piece of jewelry has its own character. Whether handcrafted, thoughtfully selected, or designed for everyday wear, your MAH Beads jewelry deserves the right care to preserve its beauty.

Different materials require different attention. Natural stones, beads, stainless steel, sterling silver, and plated finishes each have their own characteristics. With a few simple habits, you can help your favorite pieces maintain their appearance for years to come.

Here are our recommendations for keeping your jewelry looking its best.

How to Care for Your Jewelry

Proper Storage

Store your jewelry in a clean, cool, and dry place, away from direct sunlight and humidity. Whenever possible, keep each piece separate to prevent scratches, tangling, and unnecessary friction.

Soft jewelry pouches, lined boxes, and individual compartments are ideal. Delicate beaded necklaces and bracelets should be stored flat to avoid stretching their cords or placing unnecessary tension on their connections.

For sterling silver, an anti-tarnish pouch or suitable jewelry storage can help slow down oxidation.

Wear With Care

Jewelry is meant to be enjoyed, but even durable materials benefit from thoughtful handling.

Remove your jewelry before exercising, swimming, showering, cleaning, or participating in activities that may expose it to impact, moisture, or harsh chemicals.

Apply perfumes, lotions, sunscreen, and hair products before putting on your jewelry. Allow these products to dry completely to minimize contact with delicate finishes and natural materials.

Although stainless steel is generally more resistant to everyday wear, repeated exposure to chemicals, salt water, and abrasive surfaces can still affect its appearance, particularly when a piece has a decorative coating or plating.

Clean After Wearing

A simple cleaning routine can make a noticeable difference.

After wearing your jewelry, gently wipe it with a clean, soft, dry microfiber cloth to remove oils, fingerprints, and everyday residue.

For most beaded jewelry, natural stones, and plated pieces, avoid soaking, abrasive cleaners, and harsh cleaning solutions. Some stones are porous or sensitive to moisture and chemicals, so cleaning methods should always be appropriate for the specific material.

Stainless steel may be cleaned with a slightly damp, soft cloth when appropriate. Dry it thoroughly before storing.

When in doubt, choose the gentlest cleaning method.

Protect Against Impact

Natural gemstones and decorative beads may be beautiful, but they are not indestructible.

Avoid dropping your jewelry or allowing it to come into contact with hard surfaces. Even relatively durable stones can chip, crack, or become scratched when exposed to significant impact.

Be mindful of delicate clasps, elastic cords, and handmade connections. Avoid pulling or stretching bracelets and necklaces beyond their intended fit.

Some natural stones and colored materials may also fade with prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.

Caring for Sterling Silver, Gold-Plated & Stainless Steel Jewelry

Each metal has its own characteristics and care requirements.

Sterling Silver: Sterling silver can naturally tarnish over time when exposed to air, moisture, and certain chemicals. Store it in a dry environment and gently polish suitable unplated silver surfaces with a cloth specifically designed for sterling silver. Avoid using silver-polishing products on gemstones, beads, or delicate finishes.

Gold-Plated Jewelry: Plated finishes require gentle handling. Avoid excessive friction, moisture, perfumes, and cleaning chemicals, as these may gradually wear down the plating. Use a soft, dry cloth and avoid abrasive polishing.

Stainless Steel: Known for its durability and resistance to tarnishing, stainless steel is an excellent choice for everyday jewelry. However, it should still be protected from harsh chemicals, prolonged exposure to salt water, and abrasive materials. Coated or gold-tone stainless steel may require additional care to preserve its finish.

For jewelry that requires professional cleaning or repair, consult a qualified jeweler familiar with the specific materials and construction of the piece.

Made to Be Worn. Worth Caring For.

Your jewelry is part of your personal style, and the little things you do to care for it can make a lasting difference.

Wear it often. Store it thoughtfully. Treat it with care.

MAH Beads