Jewellery Care Guide – Tips for Silver, Gold, Bronze & More

Why Jewellery Care Matters

Jewellery is more than adornment — it’s memory, connection, and craft. At HerbertandWilks, every piece is designed to be worn and loved. Whether textured, oxidised or polished, your jewellery will last longer with a little thoughtful care.

How to Look After Your Jewellery Metals

Sterling Silver – Keep the Shine, Ditch the Tarnish

  • Store in an airtight container when not being worn to slow oxidation.
  • Avoid contact with lotions, perfumes, and cleaning products — these accelerate tarnish.
  • Polish gently using a silver polishing cloth, not tissue or paper towels.
  • Remove before swimming or showering — chlorinated and salt water are the enemy.
  • Wear it often! Sterling silver loves being worn — your skin’s natural oils help keep it shiny.

Gold – Low-Maintenance, High-Impact

  • Wipe down with a soft cloth after each wear to remove oils and fingerprints.
  • Keep away from chlorine and salt water — they can weaken the metal over time.
  • Store separately in a pouch or box to prevent scratching softer metals or gemstones.
  • Take off when doing heavy work like gardening or lifting — gold can bend or dent.
  • Avoid ultrasonic or harsh chemical cleaners if your piece has textures or stones.

Fine Silver – Soft, Subtle & Beautiful

  • Avoid abrasive polishing — fine silver is softer than sterling and can lose definition.
  • Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently clean.
  • Store flat and separate from harder metals to avoid surface scratching.
  • Don’t use chemical dips — they can strip patina or textural contrast.
  • Let it develop a soft patina naturally — it’s part of the charm.

Bronze – Embrace the Glow or Polish it Back

  • Expect natural darkening over time — this patina is part of bronze’s character.
  • To brighten, clean with a lemon juice + water mix then rinse and dry thoroughly.
  • Avoid prolonged moisture — always remove before bathing or swimming.
  • Store in a dry cloth bag to reduce tarnish and oxidation.
  • Buff gently with a polishing cloth if you prefer a brighter bronze.

Oxidised Jewellery – Dark on Purpose, Treat with Care

  • Some of our jewellery is intentionally oxidised to add contrast and mood. That dark surface is a design feature, not tarnish!
  • Don’t polish oxidised areas — you’ll strip the darkness.
  • Wipe gently with a soft dry cloth, avoiding friction.
  • Store separately to protect the surface from rubbing or scratching.
  • Avoid commercial cleaners or dips — they’ll remove the oxidisation.
  • If it fades, we can re-darken it — just get in touch.
👉 Read more on caring for oxidised jewellery

Need Help or a Refresh?

Not sure how to care for a particular piece? Or want to give your jewellery a gentle refresh? We’re happy to help — whether it’s advice, polishing, or re-oxidising.