Keep it dry
Take jewellery off before showering, swimming or prolonged contact with water.
Made to be worn
Jewellery Care
Handmade jewellery is meant to be worn, but a little care goes a long way.
Different metals, gemstones and natural materials behave differently over time, so I’ve put together a few simple guidelines to help keep your pieces looking their best.
Small changes in colour, patina and surface texture are completely normal — especially with copper and naturally finished metals.
Everyday care
A few good habits
Avoid chemicals
Perfume, hairspray, cleaning products and cosmetics can affect metals, patinas and some stones.
Store separately
Keep pieces apart when possible to reduce scratches, tangling and surface wear.
Clean gently
A soft dry cloth is usually the safest starting point.
Copper care
Copper & electroformed jewellery
Copper naturally changes with time, wear, air and moisture. Depending on the finish, it may gradually deepen, brighten or develop its own patina.
I personally like that ageing process, but if you prefer your piece closer to its original finish, gentle cleaning can usually bring some brightness back.
Avoid: harsh metal cleaners, abrasive cloths, soaking and strong chemicals.
Silver care
Sterling silver
Silver naturally tarnishes over time, especially when exposed to air, humidity, cosmetics and sulphur-containing products.
That doesn’t mean the silver is damaged — it simply needs cleaning.
Use a soft silver-polishing cloth on plain silver surfaces. For pieces with intentional oxidation or darkened details, polish only the raised areas so you don’t remove the finish.
Store silver somewhere dry and, if possible, away from open air when you’re not wearing it.
Avoid: harsh abrasive cleaners, chlorine and aggressive polishing of intentionally oxidised areas.
Gentle by default
Gemstones & natural materials
Natural stones, amber, botanicals and preserved specimens can all have different sensitivities.
As a general rule, avoid prolonged water exposure, strong heat, ultrasonic cleaners and aggressive chemicals unless you know the material is suitable for them.
Some stones and natural materials are softer or more porous than they look, so gentle cleaning with a dry or very slightly damp soft cloth is usually safest.
Amber deserves particular care: keep it away from perfume, alcohol, harsh cleaners and excessive heat.
If you’re unsure what your piece contains or how to clean it, just ask me.
Repairs & aftercare
Something happened?
Jewellery gets worn. Chains catch, rings get knocked, patinas change and accidents happen.
If a SonchCreates.Art piece needs attention, get in touch. I’m happy to look at repairs, adjustments, refinishing or general care questions for my own work.
If you’re not sure what your piece needs, send me a photo and we can figure it out from there.