Oxidised jewellery is a beautiful addition to any collection, but many people unknowingly make mistakes that can damage it. Understanding how to take care of oxidised jewellery is crucial to maintaining its shine and longevity.
Here’s the truth: most people ruin their favourite jewellery without even realizing it. Not on purpose, of course it’s those little habits we don’t think twice about. So, let’s talk about what could be hurting your oxidised collection and how to keep every piece safe and sparkling for years.
1. Wearing It in the Shower or While Swimming
You’re in a rush and forget to take off your earrings before jumping into the shower. Or maybe you leave your favourite bracelet on during a beach day. We’ve all done it. But water, especially with chlorine or salt, can strip the oxidised finish and mess with the metal underneath.
Quick Fix: Keep a little jewellery dish near your bathroom or pool bag. Make it part of your routine to take off your pieces before stepping into water.
2. Storing Everything in One Place
After a long day, it’s tempting to toss your earrings, rings, and bangles into a drawer. But tangled chains, scratched surfaces, and faded finishes are the result. Oxidised jewellery is delicate, it needs a little space to breathe.
Try This: Wrap each piece in soft cloth or keep them in separate pouches. You can even recycle those little cotton bags that come with jewellery. Bonus: it feels so much more organized too.
3. Keeping It On While Doing Chores
It might not seem like a big deal to wear your rings while washing dishes or cleaning the house, but soaps, detergents, and even a hard knock on the sink can cause real damage. Plus, oxidised polish doesn’t mix well with chemicals.
What Helps: Leave a ring dish in the kitchen or near your entryway. That way, you’re less likely to forget and more likely to protect your pieces. One key part of how to take care of oxidised jewellery is knowing when to remove it, especially before housework or exposure to chemicals.
4. Trusting the Wrong Sellers Online
That beautiful oxidised choker looked perfect in the photo but when it arrived, it felt cheap and started to fade after one wear. Sounds familiar? Online shopping has its risks, especially if you’re not buying from trusted sellers.
Smart Shopping Tip: Always check reviews, look for detailed product descriptions, and make sure there is a return option. And if something feels too good to be true, it probably is.
5. Spraying Perfume or Hairspray After Putting It On
This one’s sneaky. You’re getting ready, everything looks perfect, and you do a final spritz of perfume right onto your necklace. The chemicals in beauty products can seriously dull oxidised finishes or leave behind residue that builds up over time.
The Better Routine: Apply everything, lotion, perfume, makeup, before you wear your jewellery. Let it all settle in, and then finish your look with your favourite pieces.
6. Sleeping in Your Oxidised Jewellery
Maybe it’s laziness, or maybe you just forgot. Either way, wearing jewellery to bed is a no go. Tossing and turning can bend bangles, tangle chains, or loosen earring backs. Plus, the finish can get damaged with sweat and friction overnight.
The Easy Habit: Add “remove jewellery” to your bedtime routine. Keep a soft lined tray by your nightstand, no excuses!
7. Putting on Jewellery Mid Grooming
Sunscreen, foundation, or setting spray can all leave behind residue. When they touch your oxidised jewellery, it can fade the black detailing or dull the shine.
The Fix: Finish your skincare and makeup first. Wash your hands, dry them properly, and then wear your jewellery. It’s a small step that makes a big difference.
8. Cleaning With Harsh Stuff
“Just use toothpaste!” Sound familiar? Those DIY hacks may work for some things, but they’re a no for oxidised pieces. Abrasive cleaners can scratch the surface or strip the oxidised layer completely.
Better Option: Use a soft dry cloth. If needed, dip it in a bit of warm water with mild soap and gently wipe. Still unsure? Take it to a professional jeweller, you’ll be glad you did.
Some Extra Tips to Keep Your Oxidised Beauties Looking Fresh
- Give them a once over every month: Check for loose hooks or weak clasps.
- Know your piece: Is it mixed with another metal? Handmade? Learn what works best for that type.
- Keep them out of sunlight: Over time, too much sun can dull stones or fade designs.
- Travel with care: Don’t toss them into a single pouch, use a case with compartments or wrap pieces individually.
Final Thoughts
Taking care of oxidised jewellery isn’t something most of us think about until we see our favourite piece losing its charm. But trust me, a few small habits go a long way. I’ve had a pair of oxidised jhumkas for years now, and the only reason they still look great is because I stopped wearing them while doing dishes and started storing them properly.
So really, how to take care of oxidised jewellery isn’t about doing anything complicated. Just a few thoughtful habits can make a big difference. Next time you’re getting dressed or calling it a night, maybe just take a moment to put your pieces away properly. Trust me, they’ll last longer, and you’ll be glad you did later.