Care Instructions
-METALWORK-
All jewelry items should be worn with care and not during aggressive activities or long exposures to water - shower, swimming, etc. You may gently clean your piece with mild soap and water but never use chemicals or other types of cleaners because this can damage the gemstones and remove the patina on the piece.
STORING YOUR JEWELRY
Jewelry should be stored away from natural sunlight and heat, in a protective (lined) jewelry box or a tarnish-resistant pouch. It can also be stored in a plastic zip lock bag made of Mylar or polyethylene. Never use polyvinyl plastic bags, such as trash can liners as they contain sulfur compounds, or rubber containers which will make most metals tarnish faster and possibly turn black. Do not store your jewelry in the bathroom.
STERLING SILVER
When worn regularly, silver usually keeps it bright state. If kept on a dresser for long periods of time unworn (depending on the climate you live in) it can tarnish. You can easily rid your silver jewelry of tarnish by gently using a soft polishing cloth.
BRASS AND COPPER
Both of these metals have a tendency to naturally patina and age over time which adds beautiful character to the piece. However, if you prefer to keep your jewelry piece shiny and bright you may use a soft polish cloth to gently bring it back to its bright state.
PATINA / BLACKENED METALS
Many pieces have been given a surface treatment/patina with liver of sulfur which will wear over time. Keeping the surface free of excessive water will help preserve the finish. The exposed metal will darken and oxidize with continuous use to a beautiful, natural patina.
SEALED/LAQUERED METALS
Jewelry pieces that have been sealed with lacquer do not need to be polished. Be sure to treat these pieces with care to avoid damaging the lacquered surface. Remove your jewelry piece before water activities including washing your hands, showering, and swimming.
HOW TO PUT ON A CUFF BRACELET
Before purchasing any cuff bracelet, measure your wrist to be sure the cuff will fit. Depending on your preference, the cuff should fit fairly snugly- tight enough that it won't fall off but not so tight that it squeezes uncomfortably.
When putting on a cuff bracelet DO NOT BEND THE METAL. This will misshape and weaken the metal and will eventually cause your bracelet to break. To properly put on a cuff, hold the cuff bracelet like a "C", put the bottom of the "C" onto the soft spot under the wrist, and roll the wrist into the "C". Simply reverse the steps to remove the cuff.
________________________
-TEXTILES-
Wallhangings should be treated with care. After receiving your weaving in the mail a little fluffing of the yarns might be needed. Avoid hanging your piece in places where odors or fumes might exist such as near a cooking space, cigarette smoke, etc. Spot clean only (if needed).
Handwoven pillows should be spot cleaned only unless other care instructions are listed for the piece.
Handwoven pouches are best spot cleaned but may be gently hand washed in cold water with minimal agitation.
Handwoven clothing items should be hand-washed only unless other care instructions are listed for the piece.
________________________
-CLOTHING/ HAND-DYED ITEMS-
All clothing items are made by hand and should be treated with care to ensure a lifetime of use.
WASHING
Follow care instructions for your specific piece.
To get the longest lifespan out of your clothing item, it is generally recommended that you wash on a delicate cycle with cold water and gentle detergent. Line dry or lay flat to dry. Some pieces may be machine dried on a low setting, but the dryer does break down your clothing over time so use sparingly. Denim items are best washed separately to prevent damaging other clothing items.