Jewellery Care
Jewellery Care Tips:
There are several ways you can clean and maintain your jewellery items. The WKM cleaning products range is recommended and can be purchased online and at several retailers: https://www.wkmcleaner.com/ . This proven product includes specially formulated liquid dips and polishing cloths for both Sterling Silver and other precious metals. These are highly effective in removing tarnish and surface dirt from your jewellery, bringing it back to life.
Plating is a process where a layer of gold is placed on to coat the surface of another metal.
- As the jewellery is not 100% solid gold, extra care should be taken to maximise its life span. Please avoid contact with perfumes, chemicals and water environments to avoid colour fading and wear.
Please note – different types of jewellery should be cleaned using different methods. Please follow the specific instructions for best results using WKM products.
What is Sterling Silver?
Although it may seem that “pure” Silver would be most desirable, that’s not actually the case.
The official designation of “Sterling” to a piece of Silver indicates that it contains at least 92.5% of pure Silver. The remaining 7.5% comprises of other metal alloys, most commonly copper.
Metal alloys with a Silver content of more than 92.5% are too pliable to be used without suffering from dents and damage.
To ensure the metal’s stability and resilience, the second alloy is required.
Sterling Silver Care Tips
When it comes to Sterling Silver jewellery it is always best to avoid wearing it in water.
Ensure you keep Sterling Silver away from swimming pools and spas, as chlorine can damage your jewellery in a very short time.
Why does Sterling Silver tarnish?
Sterling Silver tarnish is a natural chemical process.
Sterling Silver will tarnish. This is not a defect but the result of a natural chemical process that occurs when Sterling Silver is exposed to materials containing sulphur and acids (such as those found in sweat and skin oils).
Anything, from medication, perfume or the ph balance of a person’s skin, can affect the extent of tarnishing to a piece of jewellery
Humid environments will also accelerate tarnishing. It is important to clean and care for your jewellery regularly to prevent any tarnish or discolouration from occurring.