Dust, pollution, cosmetics and perfumes all conspire to cloud the brilliance of a gemstone and dull the surface of gold, gold vermeil and sterling silver. We suggest that you take the time to properly store and care for your jewelry. We recommend applying perfume or other sprayed substances before putting on your jewelry. Jewelry should always be removed prior to showering, exercising and sleeping.
Since many genuine gemstones and especially pearls are quite delicate, hot water, harsh chemicals and cleaners should be avoided at all times. Very porous stones such as pearls, opals and emeralds should be cleaned using an untreated, dry, soft cloth ONLY. We do not recommend the use of any jewelry polishing cloths which have been treated with cleaners or polishing agents.
STORING YOUR JEWELRY
We recommend that you store your jewelry in the special pouch and jewelry box provided with your order. You can also store your jewelry in any air-tight container or bag. Proper storage helps to prevent scratching of stones and metal. It is best to keep jewelry away from extreme heat or moisture. Be careful not to place heavy objects on top of your jewelry during storage and to be gentle when putting on or removing your jewelry. To ensure your jewelry is not crushed during storage, please store it in the Benazir Collection jewelry box that was shipped with your jewelry.
CARING FOR GOLD VERMEIL JEWELRY
Gold vermeil is an overlay of gold over a base of sterling silver. Gold vermeil jewelry requires special care. Remember to store your gold vermeil jewelry in an airtight container when not in use—and to remove before applying perfumes, lotions, or before bathing. Chlorine, especially at high temperatures, can permanently damage or discolor your gold vermeil jewelry. Avoid wearing gold vermeil jewelry while using chlorine bleach or while in a pool or hot tub.
To clean gold vermeil jewelry, buff VERY gently with a soft and dry 100% cotton cloth or a microfiber cloth. NEVER use chemical cleaners on 22k gold vermeil jewelry--it can strip the gold finish. It is natural for gold vermeil jewelry to tarnish with time—it adds character to the item makes it as individual as you are.
CARING FOR OXIDIZED SILVER JEWELRY
The blackish color of oxidized sterling silver is a special treatment that is achieved by careful processing at our design studio. With time and with wear, the color of the oxidized metal may lighten a bit—this is a natural and organic occurrence. This is noticeable more on chains with pendants. If you attempt to clean oxidized sterling silver with a cloth or chemicals, it may strip off the oxidized finish. Please do not clean oxidized sterling silver jewelry. Attempting to clean oxidized sterling silver jewelry will remove the finish.
CARING FOR STERLING SILVER JEWELRY
Sterling silver will tarnish naturally over time but can be cleaned very easily. Be sure to clean the silver only and avoid contact with any stones, particularly pearls and soft stones such as opals and emeralds, as the polish may cause damage to these stones.
Be particularly careful of chlorine. Chlorine, especially at high temperatures, can permanently damage or discolor your silver jewelry. Avoid wearing silver jewelry while using chlorine bleach or while in a pool or hot tub. Tarnish is also accelerated in a humid environment. Oily salts from fingers can also tarnish silver.
