**Care Guide for Atelier Objectora Pieces**
Thank you for choosing one of my handmade pieces. Whether it's jewelry or an object, it’s designed to last and be cherished. To keep it looking as beautiful as the day you received it, here are some easy care tips for each material I work with:
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The best way to clean bronze, brass, and silver pieces is by using professional polishing creams or solutions specifically designed for those materials. They work quickly and will leave your pieces looking shiny in seconds. You can usually find these at your local drugstore. Silver cleaning solutions are also effective on brass—just be sure to follow the instructions carefully and avoid contact with any gold-plated steel or wooden parts.
**Brass Jewelry** (always paired with gold-plated steel)
Brass is beautiful but as an alloy of zinc and copper, it has a natural tendency to tarnish over time. It develops a darker patina, which some of us actually love. But if you prefer that bright golden look, here’s how you can care for it:
**How to clean at home:**
- Mix lemon juice, vinegar or toothpaste with water, and gently scrub the brass with a soft toothbrush.
- Rinse with lukewarm water and dry thoroughly with a soft towel.
- Store in a dry place, ideally in an airtight pouch, to prevent excessive tarnishing.
**Note:** The chain and other elements of the jewelry are usually gold-plated stainless steel. Be sure to treat them gently, as the gold plating can wear over time with too much rubbing or harsh chemicals.
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**Gold-Plated Stainless Steel Jewelry**
**How to clean at home:**
- Use a soft, non-abrasive cloth to gently wipe your gold-plated jewelry after wearing it.
- Avoid harsh chemicals like perfume, lotions, or household cleaners. Let these products dry before you put your jewelry on.
- When you’re not wearing them, keep the pieces in a soft pouch or jewelry box to avoid scratches.
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**Sterling Silver Jewelry**
Sterling silver can tarnish over time, but it’s easy to bring back its shine. It loves a bit of attention every now and then!
**How to clean at home:**
- Use a silver polishing cloth or a mild soap and water solution. Gently rub the silver to remove tarnish.
- If you need something stronger, use professional polishing solution apply it gently with a soft cloth. Rinse and dry thoroughly.
- Keep silver away from moisture. Store it in a jewelry box or pouch to prevent tarnishing.
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**Wood and Brass Objects**
Wood and brass both have their natural beauty, but they also need some love to keep that natural shine.
**How to care for wood:**
- Dust with a soft, dry cloth regularly.
- To refresh the wood’s surface, use a bit of beeswax or wood oil and rub gently in the direction of the wood grain. Avoid soaking the wood.
**How to care for brass:**
- As with brass jewelry, you can use a mix of lemon juice or vinegar with water to gently clean your brass objects, or use professional polishing cream for brass&bronze.
- Buff dry and polish with a soft cloth.
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**Stones and Pearls**
Many of my pieces feature natural stones or pearls, and they can be delicate. Here's how to make sure they keep their natural beauty:
**How to clean at home:**
- Wipe stones and pearls with a soft, damp cloth after wearing them. Avoid any harsh chemicals, especially for pearls, as they are porous and sensitive.
- Store separately from other jewelry to avoid scratches. Pearls, in particular, are softer than other stones, so give them their own space.
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**A Few General Tips:**
- Take off your jewelry before swimming, showering, or exercising to avoid exposing it to moisture and sweat.
- Store your pieces in a cool, dry place, preferably in individual pouches, to avoid scratching or tarnishing.
Remember, these are handmade pieces with their own little quirks and character. They’re designed to be worn and loved for years to come, and a little bit of care will keep them glowing just for you.
