Happy Valentine's Day!!! (How to Love Your Jewelry--Part 2 of 3)

Hi Everyone,

I was so happy, I got red and white tulips delivered to me today from my hubby. It's been two years since I got flowers, so I was so excited when the delivery guy knocked on the door. This is the first year that we met-- although we've had our ups and downs, there is no one else I can imagine spending my life with. I can feel all the love in the air, and I hope you are spending this special day with someone you love.

I am continuing my post on caring for your jewelry. Just as before, most of my tips will be in reference to handcrafted or bridge jewelry, because that it what I make. Please take what you like, and leave what you don't. It's up to you, as the owner of a treasured piece, to decide what's best to ensure its long-lasting beauty and durability.

"Cleaning Your Jewelry" (Part 2 of 3)

1. All metals tend to oxidize over time. You can clean your jewelry with polishing cloths made especially for cleaning precious metals. These cloths will remove oxidization and add a shine back to your sterling & fine silver, gold-filled, and full-carat gold pieces. When polishing vermeil, rub very gently. A little polish goes a long way, and you will keep the bright golden sheen longer if you rub w/ care.

2. Every gemstone and pearl has a different chemical composition. Chemical composition determines their color, their hardness, their entire physical makeup. For this reason, I do not recommend using any kind of solvent cleaners on handcrafted/bridge jewelry. Pearls and gemstones will have different reactions to chemicals. Many of your pieces will have a mix of elements, therefore it's impossible to tell how a piece will react with a cleaning solution. Err on the side of caution.

3. Instead, use a mild soap (Ivory or even baby soap) and warm water to wash. If you need to, use a soft cloth to wipe any residue or oils off. Do NOT use a toothbrush. It can scratch some of the softer gemstones.

If you have any questions regarding jewelry care, please email me. If you need polishing cloths, I have these Moonshine cloths for sale. At $4 each, they can last several years, and are a great investment. Please email me traci@midorijewelry.com or visit Midori Jewelry to request one.

I will be at Kapiolani Park this weekend for the monthly Handcrafters & Artisans Alliance Art Fest. I have tons of new jewelry items, including some cool pieces including the above necklace with sterling silver skeletons keys in them. As always, give me a buzz if you cannot find me (808) 221-1842.

See you all soon!!! Remember, if you love your lovely, it will return your affections 10-fold for years to come...

Next Event:

HAA Art Fest
Feb. 15-16 (Presidents' Day weekend)
Kapiolani Park (behind the bandstand)
9am-4pm
Booth #2 (right in front of the Vietnamese food booth)

Please visit Midori Jewelry online to see more jewelry items, event schedule, and stocklists.