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.