Jewellery Care Guide

Here’s some helpful information to keep your jewellery looking tip top!

A little bit of attention will keep your jewellery looking better for longer. I recommend storing your jewellery in a box or pouch when not in use, and keeping away from body lotion, oil and lotions when being worn as these can cause discolouration and tarnishing. Removing your jewellery before showering, when exercising or working up a sweat, and in when bed, will keep it in good shape for as long as possible.

Here are some tips and information about commonly used metals and materials used in dot&hana jewellery…

Brass is a durable alternative to gold and plated finishes, and is much more cost effective. On the downside, brass tarnishes easily and can be unsuitable for sensitive skin. Tarnishing is easily removed by polishing with brass cleaner, and if it marks your skin a wash and rub with soapy water will remove it.

Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc which is commonly used in jewellery, both on it’s own or as a base metal for plated items. Sometimes brass can contain minute quantities of nickel or other irritant metals, and it is this element that may cause the skin to react.

Gold Filled is hardwearing and long lasting and will not leave any marks or tarnishing like plated or brass jewellery can. If you have sensitive skin but you can wear gold jewellery, then gold filled jewellery should not irritate your skin. It’s easy to care for, just keep away from harsh chemicals and clean with a jewellery cloth. Gold filled mean that a layer of gold (typically 14k gold) has been pressure bonded to a base metal.

Sterling Silver is an alloy made from 92.5% silver mixed with copper. Although it is prone to tarnishing, it’s easy to bring back to a shine using a silver cloth which will make it look good as new.

Gold and Silver Plated means a thin layer of of gold or silver is electroplated over a base metal, usually copper or brass. Keep it looking it’s best by following the care instructions at the top - keep dry and away from body lotion, oil and perfume, and store carefully when you’re not wearing it.

Gold and silver plated jewellery is susceptible to tarnishing over time and the plating will eventually come off. Clean gently with a soft jewellery polishing cloth.

Acrylic is hardwearing but can scratch easily and snap if handled roughly. If it gets smudges or fingerprints on it, a quick rub with a soft cloth will easily remove them.

I may be able to change brass, gold or silver plated components of my jewellery with gold filled components, please email me - Rachael at dotandhana@gmail.com - to find out if I can do this on the piece you’d like to purchase.