Jewellery Care
The metals used in the jewellery will change over time. This process is called oxidisation and it means they may darken or change colours. Brass warms but may also show fingerprints. Copper may darken. Especially on hammered pieces, this can accentuate the texture and you may like to see how the character develops. A super light buff with a jewellery cloth or for brass and copper, a bit of Brasso on a soft cloth can highlight the hammered surfaces. However, if you have a piece you would like to keep bright, a firmer hand with the polishing cloth will have it looking shiny again.
Leather can be renewed with a wipe with a damp cloth and a small amount of oil.
Gemstones, a light dust with a damp cloth should do the trick.
It is also advisable to take off your jewellery before showering or swimming and put it on after you’ve applied any creams or perfumes.
Brass earrings showing some oxidisation from fingerprints.
Cleaning with Brasso and a soft cloth.
The earring on the left has been polished, note the cooler colour and the removed fingerprints.