Jewelry can become a treasured family heirloom if cared for properly.
Terry RM Designs creations are primarily sterling silver, and sometimes copper. Instructions below will help you care for your jewellery and keep it looking beautiful.
SILVER
TerryRM Designs uses fine (.999) or sterling (.925) silver, one of the most beautiful metals. With proper care, your silver will retain its beauty and character for many years.
Sterling silver tarnishes, especially when exposed to salt air, acids and products containing sulfur, such as rubber bands and some papers. However, silver that is regularly used typically needs less care, so TerryRM Designs strongly encourages you to use or wear your silver every day.
WASHING SILVER: As long as there are no set stones in the pieces you may wash silver by hand in warm water with a mild detergent. Because many food acids and gases in the air can have a corrosive effect, we suggest that you wash your silver immediately after use. To avoid spotting, it is important to dry your silver immediately after washing.
POLISHING SILVER: Use a brand-name silver polishing cloth such as Sunshine Polishing Cloths* or another quality brand. Rub each piece gently but firmly lengthwise, using straight, even strokes.
Do not use "dip" polishes as many contain harsh chemicals and should be avoided. Electrolytic cleaning (aluminum foil, salt and baking soda in a water base) is not recommended.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS: An "oxidized" finish is the deliberate blackening of areas and crevices in of a silver object to make its decorative details stand out more clearly. Be very careful when polishing near these areas as this finish can be removed by overenthusiastic cleaning and polishing.
COPPER
‘Raw’ unvarnished copper will naturally tarnish over time. Some people may actually tarnish copper just by wearing it
In general, copper may also be cleaned with jewelry polishing cloths. Be sure to keep the cloths used for cleaning copper separate from those used to clean silver.
*Jewellery polishing cloths may be purchased from many places online.
