How to care for natural gemstone and copper jewellery

Handcrafted natural gemstone and copper jewellery requires a little more care than mass-produced pieces. The materials it is made from are alive and react and change over time. This is what makes them unique.

Below you will find the most important care guidelines for jewellery made with natural gemstones, copper and oxidised copper.

 

Natural gemstone jewellery

Natural gemstones are not perfectly uniform. They may contain small inclusions and variations in colour or structure. These are natural characteristics, not flaws.

How to care for natural gemstone jewellery:

• Avoid contact with water, perfumes and cosmetics.
• Remove jewellery before sleeping, bathing and physical activity.
• Store it separately, in a dry place, preferably in a pouch or a box.
• If needed, gently wipe with a soft, dry cloth.

Natural gemstones do not require regular cleaning. The less interference, the better.

Differences in structure and colour highlight the beauty of natural gemstones.

Oxidised copper jewellery

Oxidation is an intentional, artistic finish that gives jewellery depth and character.
It is not dirt or a defect.

How to care for oxidised copper jewellery:

• Avoid contact with water and chemicals such as perfumes or detergents.
• Remove jewellery before sleeping, bathing and physical activity.
• Do not polish it or use metal polishing pastes.
• Store it in a dry place, preferably in a pouch or a box.
• Clean gently with a soft, dry cloth.

Oxidised copper jewellery is protected with a special jeweller’s wax, which protects the surface and slows down natural oxidation processes.

Over time, the oxidation may change slightly. This is a natural effect of wear.

Copper jewellery

Copper reacts with air, moisture and skin.
Changes in colour and the development of patina are natural processes.

How to care for copper jewellery:

• Remove jewellery before sleeping, bathing and physical activity.
• Avoid contact with water, cosmetics and chemicals.
• Store it separately, in a dry place, preferably in a pouch or a box.
• Clean gently with a soft, dry cloth or a cloth intended for copper or jewellery.

Copper jewellery is protected with a special jeweller’s wax, which helps protect the surface and preserve its character for longer.

Natural patina is a normal result of wear and does not always need to be removed.

Home methods for cleaning copper

Use home cleaning methods only when the jewellery does not contain natural gemstones.

Lemon and baking soda

Mix a small amount of baking soda with lemon juice to create a paste.
Apply it to the copper, gently rub with your fingers or a soft cloth, then dry thoroughly.

Vinegar and salt

Mix a few drops of vinegar with a small amount of salt.
Gently rub the copper surface, then rinse thoroughly and dry the jewellery.

Please note

Do not use home cleaning methods, polishing pastes or chemical products if the jewellery contains natural gemstones.
Moisture and acids can damage the gemstones and their settings.

For natural gemstone jewellery, the best form of care is gentle wiping with a soft, dry cloth or allowing the natural patina to develop.