How to Care for Jewelry - Yours, Mine, and Even the Queen’s — No Drama Edition

There’s something people often ask about, so I’d rather make it clear:

All jewelry requires care.
Mine. Any artist’s. The big names. Your grandmother’s. And yes, even the crown jewels.

That’s just how it is with real jewelry made from noble metals.

Another thing is whether you like to let it age and evolve.
I do. I think that’s part of its beauty.
But if one day you want to see it like the first day again — you can.
No drama, just knowing how it works.

Here’s the simple version:

— 18k Gold (what I use):
These are the pieces that last best.
Almost zero maintenance.
With wear, small scratches or finish changes may appear.
But no need to obsess — it’s all part of the piece’s story.

— Sterling Silver:
It tarnishes. That’s its nature.
925 silver does it even more, because it includes a small alloy to avoid bending or breaking too easily.
Best way to keep it in good shape: wear it regularly.
A silver piece left forgotten in a drawer ages much worse than one that gets out in the world.
When you wear it, it oxidizes in a more natural, living way.
If it darkens more than you like, clean it. That’s it.

— Gold or Silver Plated Pieces:
With time, the plating wears off.
Mine are plated thick — 5 microns.
But still, use and friction wear it down eventually.
When that moment comes, it can be replated.

One more thing I think is important to say:

Some makers, to prevent tarnish or wear, apply varnish to their pieces.
That keeps them looking new longer — but they age worse.
For me, that’s like laminating a piece of jewelry.
It takes the life out of it. Stops it breathing, stops its natural evolution.
The wearer might not notice — but I know.

That’s why:
None of my pieces are varnished.
I prefer them free. Alive.

And if one day you want to bring back their original shine, I’m here to help.
I offer cleaning or restoration services for my pieces, always with a prior quote.

Like everything in life:

Knowing what to keep, what to let go, and what to bring back.
That’s also an art. And that choice is yours.