Care Recommendations for Your Silver Jewelry
Mara Paris jewelry is crafted with exceptional expertise and meticulous attention to detail. Whether worn daily or reserved for special occasions, these precious pieces require special care to preserve their brilliance and beauty over time. We recommend following these care instructions closely.
Protecting Your Jewelry from Wear and Tear
While precious metals like silver are durable, they are still sensitive to certain conditions. To prevent damage, we recommend removing your jewelry before engaging in activities such as sports, household chores, or any physical tasks that might expose it to unnecessary wear and tear.
The Patina: The Natural Aging of Jewelry
As jewelry ages, it develops a natural patina that adds character and charm.
For silver jewelry, this patina forms more quickly the more it's worn and handled.
Since silver is softer and more malleable than metals like gold or platinum, it's susceptible to scratches and bending, but this quality allows for intricate designs and fine details.
Malleability doesn’t imply lower quality; it simply reflects the natural properties of silver. By understanding these characteristics, you can better care for your silver pieces, preserving their beauty and durability for years to come.
Oxidation
Oxidation is a natural process where silver darkens or tarnishes when exposed to air and humidity. To minimize oxidation, limit your jewelry’s contact with water and always dry it thoroughly if exposed to moisture.
Rather than viewing oxidation as a flaw, think of it as part of the jewelry’s journey—adding character over time. Regular cleaning can control this process, or you can let the patina develop naturally for a unique look that tells the story of the piece.
Leaving your silver jewelry in humid environments, such as bathrooms, for extended periods can accelerate the oxidation process.
Wearing your Mara Paris jewelry regularly can help slow down oxidation and maintain its shine.
Restoring Shine to Oxidized Jewelry
If your jewelry becomes tarnished, there are simple ways to restore its shine:
- For light tarnish or fingerprints, gently polish the piece with a soft or silk cloth. This will remove dirt and smudges, restoring its natural luster without causing damage.
- For more severe oxidation or black stains, use a specialized silver cleaning cloth to restore the jewelry’s brilliance. After a thorough cleaning, your piece will regain its original shine.
We recommend using a silver cleaning cloth specifically designed for this purpose. You can purchase one from Mara Paris or find similar products available on the market. These cloths are ideal for preserving your jewelry’s brilliance and keeping it looking like new.
Avoiding Cosmetic and Chemical Products
Cosmetics and chemicals can dull silver jewelry and accelerate wear or oxidation. To protect your pieces, remove them before applying perfume, lotions, or using household cleaners. Avoid applying these products directly on the jewelry. It’s best to put on your jewelry after finishing your beauty routine.
If your jewelry comes into contact with cosmetics or chemicals, rinse it with clean water and dry it thoroughly with a soft cloth to maintain its shine and longevity.