Handmade jewelry is made with intention and it deserves to be cared for the same way. Whether you're wearing a delicate gemstone pendant every day or saving a pair of earrings for special occasions, a little care goes a long way. Here's everything you need to know.
1. Daily Habits That Make a Difference
The biggest enemies of handmade jewelry are things you encounter every day: perfume, lotion, hairspray, sweat, and chlorine. The rule of thumb? Jewelry goes on last when you're getting ready, and comes off first when you're winding down. A few seconds of mindfulness adds years to your pieces.
2. Cleaning at Home
For most handmade pieces, gentle is best. Use a soft, lint-free cloth to wipe down metal after wearing. For a deeper clean, a small bowl of warm water with a drop of mild dish soap and a soft toothbrush works beautifully on metal settings. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners for pieces with delicate stones or hand-set elements as the vibrations can loosen settings over time.
For gemstones specifically: most can handle a gentle wipe, but porous stones like turquoise, opal, and pearl should never be soaked. When in doubt, dry clean only.
3. Storage Tips
How you store your jewelry matters as much as how you wear it. Keep pieces separated to prevent scratching and tangling using individual pouches, a lined jewelry box, or small zip-lock bags. For necklaces, hanging them or laying them flat prevents knots from forming overnight.
Store everything away from direct sunlight and humidity. A cool, dry drawer beats a bathroom countertop every time.
4. When to Take It Off
Some moments call for bare wrists and bare necks. Always remove your jewelry before swimming (pools and oceans are both harsh on metals and stones), working out, sleeping, and doing household cleaning. It takes ten seconds and makes a real difference.
5. Shop Pieces Made to Last
The best care starts with quality. Browse our Necklaces and Earrings collections where each piece is handcrafted with materials chosen for both beauty and longevity.
Wear it with intention. Care for it the same way. That's the LUNALUNE way.