What is costume jewelry?
Costume Jewelry is simply an imitation of the “real thing”. That being said, it requires extra care to keep your favorite pieces looking good. It is important to remember that even though fashion jewelry resembles real gold or silver, it can tarnish or fade if treated improperly. Never expect costume jewelry to last forever, inevitably you will have to say goodbye to the styles you love the very most.
Storage
Costume jewelry doesn’t like is air, dust or sun! There are tons of cute options out there to “bag up” your jewelry. You can find storage solutions that hang in your closet with bunches of clear zipper compartments, this is ideal and makes it quick to find the piece you’re looking for.
Some of us have way too much jewelry (we won’t name names) so the closet option is not going to work. Another idea is to use snack size ziploc bags. This prevents necklaces from getting tangled and earrings from losing their partner. Use bigger bags for bold necklaces and big bangles. Buy some cheap stackable hat boxes and toss the ziploc bags in. Decorative and functional at the same time.
Keeping your jewelry stored carefully will prevent tarnishing and damage dramatically.
Wear with care!
Plating on fashion jewelry can tarnish if worn improperly. If at all possible, do not wear the same piece day in day out. Try to rotate through your favorites to avoid constant contact with your skin.
When in doubt, take it off! Exposure to water, dirt, chemicals, soaps, hairspray, perfumes, lotions and sweat can harm the plating on costume jewelry.
Cleaning Jewelry
We do not recommend cleaning costume jewelry as it may hurt more that it helps. If you must take the chance, make sure the process is gentle, chemical free and non abrasive.