Wire-wrapped jewelry is a beautiful and unique way to display precious stones and other materials, but it requires proper care in order to maintain its beauty and integrity.
Copper wire-wrapped jewelry, in particular, is a popular choice due to its affordability and versatility, and it's the metal that I most often choose to work with! Copper wire can come in a wide array of colors and hardnesses, another reason for its popularity with designers who make wire wrapped jewelry.
However, copper is also a reactive metal, meaning it can change color and texture over time if not cared for properly.
Here are some tips for caring for your wire-wrapped copper jewelry:
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Keep it clean: To remove dirt and grime from your copper wire-wrapped jewelry, gently clean it with warm water and mild soap. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as they can damage the wire and the stones. Be sure to check if your crystal can get wet, as exposure to water may damage your piece.
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Dry thoroughly: After cleaning your copper wire-wrapped jewelry, be sure to dry it thoroughly with a soft cloth. Moisture can cause copper to tarnish and discolor, so it's important to dry your jewelry completely before storing it.
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Store in a cool, dry place: To prevent tarnishing and discoloration, store your copper wire-wrapped jewelry in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity. A jewelry box or a sealed plastic bag is a great option.
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Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals: To maintain the beauty of your copper wire wrapped jewelry, avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals such as chlorine, sulfur, and other pollutants. Be sure to remove your jewelry when swimming or doing other activities that may expose it to harsh chemicals.
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Use a polishing cloth: To remove tarnish and restore shine to your copper wire wrapped jewelry, use a polishing cloth designed for use on copper. These cloths are specially treated to remove tarnish without harming the wire or the stones. You can buy a pack of 5 copper polishing cloths HERE.
Other common materials that your wire-wrapped jewelry may be made of are sterling silver and 14k gold fill. Many of the above tips also apply to these metals, with a few additional considerations.
Sterling silver is well known for its ability to tarnish. Using an anti-tarnishing agent will help prevent this, such as tarnish-preventive cloth or storage bag. Check out some anti-tarnishing storage options HERE. Like copper, you can use a silver polishing cloth to remove tarnish that has already built up. You can buy a large silver polishing cloth HERE.
14k gold fill requires extra gentleness in its care. 14k gold fill is a thin layer of gold over a base metal, making it more prone to scratches than solid gold, copper, and sterling silver. To avoid scratches, store your gold-fill jewelry in a soft pouch or wrapped in a soft cloth like the ones linked above.
By following these tips, you can keep your wire wrapped jewelry looking beautiful for years to come. Remember to handle your jewelry with care, and to take it off before engaging in activities that might damage it. With proper care, your wire wrapped jewelry of any metal will be a cherished piece for a long time.