Jewelry Care

All Una Barrett Jewelry is handmade from solid sterling silver, gold, brass, and bronze. Each piece is unique and some are crafted with mineral specimens, fossils, or natural gemstones. Optimal treatment varies piece to piece. Handled with care, it will travel well with you on life’s adventures for many many years to come!

Caring for jewelry with natural materials, fossils, and gemstone specimens: Pieces containing natural materials may be sensitive to water and heat. Avoid storing pieces in direct sunlight. It is highly recommended to remove pieces before bathing, swimming, washing hands, applying oils or lotions to the skin. Do not wear during strenuous work or activity.

Caring for sterling silver, brass, and bronze jewelry: Sterling silver, brass, and bronze all contain varying amounts of copper and therefore will darken slowly over time. Most Una Barrett Jewelry has been intentionally oxidized (darkened) to accentuate textures in the designs. They are designed to wear well and the oxidized surfaces will develop naturally over time. Depending on body chemistry and wear, higher surfaces may develop a brighter polish and darker surfaces may deepen further. To maintain the oxidized look of the pieces, it is recommended to remove pieces before bathing, swimming, washing hands, applying oils or lotions to the skin, or strenuous work and activity.

To polish oxidized sterling or mixed metal pieces (non-natural material jewelry only), gently rub the surface with a polishing cloth such a “sunshine” cloth or clean jewelry with toothpaste and a designated toothbrush (This may sound unconventional, but it works quite well!). Never dip jewelry in a polishing liquid or bath.

Caring for gold jewelry: Gold does not tarnish and therefore is a dream to care for. Scratches and dings will naturally occur during wear and lends to the beauty of a well cherished piece. Some gold jewelry may develop a build up of oils or dirt after consistent wear. Clean jewelry with warm water, dishwashing soap, and a designated toothbrush to bring it back to its original form.