Posts Tagged ‘Ammonia’

Even if you purchase costume jewelry that is high quality, a general rule of thumb, is that no costume jewelry will be as durable and reliable as fine jewelry. fashion jewelry does, however, allow you to follow the newest trends without having to spend the hundreds of dollars fine jewelry may cost you. It would be unreasonable to expect costume jewelry to last indefinitely; even fine jewelry will not look new forever.

However, with proper usage and care, you can prolong the life of your jewelry. You need to make sure that a cleaner doesn’t contain ammonia, vinegar, or any other acids or alcohols. Read the label and make sure you are using a cleaner safe for whatever material your costume jewelry is made from (silver, gold, brass, bronze, copper, chrome, stainless steel, aluminum, pearls, opals, marble and any gems.) Don’t use soap and water, because most soaps will leave a residue on the metal and make the stones look dull. Windex can damage delicate stones and finishes. Vinegar is also harmful to the gemstones. Use a very soft cloth to clean the surface of stones and gold or silver, using a bit of water. Do not submerge your jewelry entirely.

I. Keep your jewelry away from the following as much as possible: Water, lotion, perfume, or other harsh chemicals.

II. Perspiration will also shorten the life of your costume jewelry.

III. For Rhodium Plated Silver and Vermeil Jewelry – Do not use soap/water or jewelry cleaner to clean your jewelry as the soap will leave a film clouding your jewelry. This plating is known to prevent tarnishing but can certainly be compromised when exposed to harsh chemicals. Again, a soft jewelry cloth should do just fine!

IV. Most importantly, after you have cleaned your jewelry, you must make sure your jewelry is completely dried before wearing it or storing it.

Storing

How you store your costume jewelry depends upon the space that you have available, your budget, and whether you want to display them, wear them, or simply protect them. Here are some tips for safely storing your jewelry:

I. Temperature change – Any extreme change in temperature can affect stone settings and glue.

II. Moisture – Moisture is the worst enemy of costume jewelry. Not only can it destroy the foil backing of rhinestones; it can also damage the metals used.

III. Space – Vintage jewelry must never be allowed to rest on top of another piece or be jostled together. This can dislodge or scratch stones.

IV. Oak – Oak cabinets or boxes can release fumes that damage costume jewelry.

V. Cardboard boxes – Even the cute little boxes that jewelry is sold in has been treated with sulpher, which tarnishes gold and silver.

Good storage choices:

1. Ziplock bags
2. Metal drawers
3. Plastic boxes
4. Soft cloth
5. Curio cabinets

Fashion Jewelry, sterling silver jewelry and faux gold jewelry or vermeil jewelry can certainly last for years and years with proper care. There are many vintage costume jewelry pieces that have been passed from generation to generation and many stunning pieces can be found in historical museums all over the world!

PortiaJewelry.com Jewelry Information, Care Guide & Jewelry Rulers

Author: Isabel Manzo
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Canada duty rates

Swarovski bridal jewelry adds elegance and style to a bride’s wedding attire. Swarovski crystals are known for their purest quality, luminosity, and clarity. It is important to know how to care for your Swarovski bridal jewelry. As a bride, you may have found tips on how to preserve your wedding gown or your bridal bouquet. Know how to care for your bridal jewelry will help maintain its fine quality as well. With a little tender love and care, your Swarovski crystal bridal jewelry will last for years to come.

Cleaning your Swarovski Crystal bridal jewelry

o It is recommended that you polish your Swarovski crystal jewelry with a soft lint-free cloth. You should polish your Swarovski crystal bridal jewelry on an “as needed” basis.

o If your Swarovski crystal bridal jewelry is extremely dirty, mix a mild dish detergent in warm water and clean each piece of Swarovski crystal using a soft bristled brush. Rinse each piece thoroughly, with fresh warm water. Dry your jewelry with a soft lint-free cloth. Warning: Do not use boiling water, commercial jewelry cleaning solutions, or sonic jewelry cleaners. Avoid using alcohol and ammonia.

o To restore the luminosity of your Swarovski crystal jewelry, polish each piece with a Swarovski polishing cloth.

o To avoid unnecessary wear and tear, you should put on your Swarovski bridal jewelry after you have applied your cosmetics (i.e. perfume, hairspray, makeup). It is also recommended that you do not wear your Swarovski wedding jewelry while bathing, exercising, or sleeping.

Storing your Swarovski Crystal bridal jewelry

o Store your Swarovski bridal jewelry in a soft jewelry pouch or box (a Swarovski jewelry pouch is recommended).

o Avoid storing your Swarovski crystal jewelry in a sun-exposed environment or places that have too much heat.

o To avoid scratching, do not store your Swarovski bridal jewelry with other materials. Swarovski crystal jewelry should be stored in a separate pouch or box.

A bride’s wedding attire is one of the most memorable elements of her wedding day. She must take certain precautions in order to sustain the quality of her bridal gown, bouquet, and bridal jewelry. Swarovski bridal jewelry is not only elegant, but it is delicate as well. In order to preserve its quality, luminosity, and clarity, it must receive a little tender love and care. If your Swarovski bridal jewelry is cleaned and stored properly, it will last you forever. It just may become your future daughter’s bridal jewelry set in years to come.

Maria Romain writes for Silverland Jewelry and Gifts, a company that sells bridal jewelry and gifts at affordable prices.

http://www.silverlandjewelry.com

Author: Maria Romain
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Canada duty