Jewelry Care Guide

🌿 Component Care Guide: Keeping Your Pieces Beautiful
The most common question we receive at the studio is, “Will my jewelry tarnish?” The honest answer is that it depends entirely on the metal base of your specific component. While some metals are naturally completely tarnish-resistant, others develop a beautiful vintage patina over time if they aren't kept dry.
To help you and your customers care for your handmade pieces, here is exactly how our three signature metal components behave and how to care for them.
🇮🇹 1. Zamac Components (Italian Medals, Crucifixes, & Rosary parts)
Zamac is a high-grade, traditional European alloy made of zinc, aluminum, magnesium, and copper. It is prized by artisans because it allows for incredible, crisp structural detail on historic medals and crucifixes.
  • Will it tarnish? Zamac is naturally highly resistant to rust and severe corrosion, but its plated finish can slowly darken or develop a warm, antique patina over time when exposed to air and skin oils. Many makers love this look because it enhances the vintage history of the piece!
  • How to care for it: Keep your Italian components away from water, sweat, perfumes, and harsh chemicals. To clean them, simply wipe them gently with a soft, dry microfiber cloth. Never use liquid jewelry cleaners, as they will strip away the detailed antiqued finish.
🇨🇳 2. Zinc Alloy Components (Charms and jewelry findings from China)
Mur detailed decorative charms and jewelry findings are made of standard zinc alloy. It is a lightweight, versatile metal that allows for beautiful, intricate designs.
  • Will it tarnish? Yes, zinc alloy will naturally oxidize and tarnish over time if it is exposed to moisture, humidity, or body oils.
  • How to care for it: This metal loves to be kept completely dry. Always remove zinc alloy jewelry before showering, swimming, or exercising. Store these pieces in a dry, airtight ziplock bag or a lined jewelry box when they aren't being worn. If they need a refresh, buff them gently with a dry, clean cloth.
🇨🇳 3. Stainless Steel Components (Charms and jewelry findings from China)
Our stainless steel findings and components are the ultimate workhorses of our inventory, built for durability and everyday wear.
  • Will it tarnish? No! Stainless steel is completely tarnish-resistant, hypoallergenic, and will not rust or turn skin green. It is an incredibly durable metal that retains its bright silver-tone finish permanently.
  • How to care for it: Stainless steel is incredibly low-maintenance. While it can handle everyday exposure well, it's still best to avoid harsh household cleaning chemicals or chlorine. If it ever loses its luster, you can wash it gently with a bit of mild dish soap and warm water, then dry it thoroughly with a soft towel.
✨ General Tips for Soulful Makers
To ensure your finished handmade jewelry lasts for generations, we always recommend following the "Last On, First Off" rule:
  1. Make your jewelry the last thing you put on in the morning (after your lotions, perfumes, and hairsprays have completely dried).
  2. Make your jewelry the first thing you take off at night before heading to bed or starting your skincare routine.