When you want to add an aesthetic charm to a boho outfit, oxidised jewels are the perfect way to do it. These jewels have a unique vintage charm to them. They not only add a timeless elegance to any outfit but also bring out its desi vibes. Especially if you are wearing something from Indian handloom, tarnished silver jewels is the best to go with it. However, these timeless jewels need some extra care. Whether you own a tarnished necklace set for women or a precious heirloom passed down by your grandmother, proper maintenance and storage are important. It helps in preserving its beauty. In this blog, we will explore a few simple tips to store and clean your precious oxidized jewellery.
Understanding oxidised silver jewellery
Before we jump onto the maintenance and storage tips, it is important to understand what silver oxidised jewellery is. Silver patina or rustic ornaments are deliberately darkened using a controlled oxidation process. It can involve sulfur or oxygen depending on the level of tarnish the artist wants to achieve. With this process, artisan jewellers try to highlight the intricate patterns and filigree work done on the jewel. Therefore, it needs extra care to maintain the darkened antique look. Anything harsh can strip away the tarnish layer making the jewels lose their charm.
Smart tips to clean oxidised jewellery
Since oxidized jewellery gets its charm from the tarnish layer, it does not need too much cleaning. However, it is important to remove any makeup, perfume or sweat that it might have come in contact with. Try these easy steps will help you in doing so,
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Avoid harsh cleaners and polishes.
There is a cardinal rule for cleaning tarnished jewels, never use regular silver polish or commercial cleaners. These products are made to add a shine to regular silver removing oxidation. Hence it can cause your oxidised earrings to lose their rustic layers which gives these pieces a unique look.
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Use a soft cloth for daily cleaning.
If your everyday silver chains for women have come in contact with water or sweat, use a soft cloth to clean them. You can use 100% cotton cloth or microfiber fabric for it. These are best for cleaning your rustic jewels as they do not scratch the surface affecting the tarnish.
3. Use mild soap and water for deeper cleaning.
To remove any dirt or stickiness on the jewels, you can use mild soap and lukewarm water. You can use a soft-bristled toothbrush for filigree designs on silver patina earcuffs, earrings, necklaces, and oxidised nose pins. For other jewels, use a cotton swab. Pat the ornaments dry and wrap them in a soft cloth to absorb further moisture.
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Natural cleaning agents are the best.
Instead of any chemicals, try to use natural cleaning agents such as baking soda and water. Make a paste with water and baking soda and rub it gently on the non-oxidised part. Rinse it with water and dry it well. This works well to remove makeup stains on an oxidised silver necklace.
While cleaning your silver tarnished ornaments, try not to rub the surface too hard. You want to remove the dirt and grime, not polish the surface. Also, avoid soaking them in water for a prolonged period. Try these simple tips to keep them safe and beautiful for a long time.
Image credit:- Pintrest
Simple storage tips to prevent tarnish and damage
When it comes to precious jewels like rustic ornaments, storage plays an essential role. It prevents any kind of damage to the structure such as breakage, scratches, and tears. And it also helps to avoid exposure to air and moisture which can affect the rustic finish.
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Store them in airtight containers: This is the best way to avoid exposure to moisture. You can get a big jewellery box and place all your silver oxidised jewellery in it. A nice velvet-lined jewel box or zip-lock bag is also good for it.
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Keep jewel pieces separate: Instead of putting all the pieces in a single box, place them separately. This helps in preventing scratches and damage to the oxidised layers. You can wrap each piece in acid-free tissue paper and place them in a box. For small earrings, use a small jewel box with spaces for earrings. You can also use soft fabric pouches as well.
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Clean before storage: Never store your oxidised women’s jewellery right after wearing them. Use a soft cloth to remove any makeup, chemicals or sweat present on your jewels and store them. This works best for long-term storage.
Image credit:- The New York times
Before storing always check for any small damages and get them repaired if any. Use soft fabric like velvet or cotton for storing necklace sets for women and wrapping them. Prefer acid-free tissue or jewellery paper individual storage. With all these tips you can prevent any damage to the tarnished layer.
Rustic jewels are an expression of timeless artistry. Their tarnished appearance gives them a beautiful look. The work that goes into crafting each piece with hand and giving it the rustic look, requires special care. Silver patina jewels are not expensive, yet they need gentle handling, regular maintenance, and thoughtful storage. With these cleaning and storage tips, you will not only maintain the rustic beauty but also enhance its life.
FAQs
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Is Oxidised Silver real?
Yes, oxidised silver is silver. Artisans use either 100% pure silver or 92.5 silver sterling for creating beautiful, rustic ornaments. It is valued at the same cost as silver metal.
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How long does oxidised silver last?
With proper care and storage, tarnished silver can last for an exceptionally long time. Some families have been passing these down as heirlooms as well. However, it is prone to natural wear and tear like any other metal.
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Which is better, silver, or oxidised sterling silver?
Although oxidised jewellery is made with both 100% pure silver and sterling silver, tarnished sterling silver is more durable. It has other metals such as copper which makes it strong. Such jewellery is also perfect for everyday wear.
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Can I use toothpaste to clean oxidised silver?
No, you must not use toothpaste to clean oxidised jewellery. It has harsh grains and can remove the delicate tarnish layer from the metal. You will lose the real beauty of this antique jewel with this. It is best to clean it with a soft cloth gently.
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Can oxidised silver jewellery get wet?
Yes, It can get wet. However, with prolonged exposure to water, your jewellery can get more tarnished if it is made from pure silver. Unless you have sterling silver rustic jewels, it is best to prevent water exposure.
