How Moisture Can Affect Your Jewellery and Simple Solutions from Shelly Jewels

We all adore our beautiful jewellery, from everyday essentials to statement pieces for special occasions. At Shelly Jewels, we craft exquisite artificial jewellery designed to elevate your style. However, one of the biggest culprits behind dulling their shine is something we often overlook: moisture.

Whether it's a humid Mumbai monsoon, sweat from a busy day, or even just leaving your pieces in a damp bathroom, moisture can silently wreak havoc on your beloved accessories. But don't worry! Understanding the effects of moisture and taking a few simple steps can keep your Shelly Jewels sparkling like new.

How Moisture Diminishes Your Shine

Artificial jewellery, often made from alloys and plated with finishes like gold, silver, or rose gold, is particularly susceptible to moisture. Here's what happens:

1. Tarnishing: The most common effect. When moisture (especially combined with air pollutants) comes into contact with the metals in your jewellery, it can cause a chemical reaction leading to a dull, dark, or discolored film on the surface. This can make your pieces look old and worn.

2. Discoloration: Beyond just darkening, some pieces might take on greenish or reddish hues, especially if they contain copper or brass alloys that react to moisture. Your vibrant gold-plated pieces might lose their warm glow.

3. Rusting: While less common with high-quality plating, prolonged exposure to water can cause the underlying metals in some artificial jewellery to rust, leading to reddish-brown spots.

4. Loosening of Stones: Adhesives and settings can weaken or corrode with moisture exposure, causing those beautiful faux diamonds, pearls, or colourful stones to become loose or even fall out.

5. Loss of Luster: Even without visible tarnish, constant dampness can strip away the shine and vibrancy, making your jewellery appear lifeless.

What You Can Do About It: Shelly Jewels' Protection Plan

The good news is, preventing moisture damage is surprisingly easy! Here’s your go-to guide from Shelly Jewels:

1. "Last On, First Off" Rule: Make your jewellery the last thing you put on before leaving the house and the first thing you take off when you return. This avoids contact with perfumes, lotions, hairspray, and body oils, which also contribute to moisture buildup and chemical reactions.

2. Avoid Water Activities: This is non-negotiable! Always remove your Shelly Jewels before:

• Showering or bathing

• Swimming (pools, oceans, lakes)

• Washing dishes or doing laundry

• Engaging in heavy exercise that causes excessive sweating

3. Smart Storage is Key: Where you keep your jewellery matters immensely.

• Keep it Dry: Store your Shelly Jewels in a cool, dry place. Avoid bathrooms or humid areas.

• Airtight is Best: Consider storing individual pieces in small zip-lock bags or airtight containers. This creates a barrier against airborne moisture and humidity.

• Silica Gel Packets: Those tiny packets that come with new bags or shoes are your jewellery's best friend! Toss a few into your jewellery box or storage bags to absorb excess moisture.

4. Immediate Drying Protocol: If your jewellery accidentally gets wet, act fast!

• Gently wipe it thoroughly with a soft, lint-free cloth.

• Allow it to air dry completely on a clean, dry surface before storing it away. Ensure there's no hidden moisture in clasps or crevices.

5. Gentle Cleaning: Regular, gentle cleaning helps remove any buildup that could attract moisture.

• After each wear, give your pieces a quick wipe down with a soft, dry cloth.

• For a deeper clean, use a soft, slightly damp cloth with a very mild soap (like diluted dish soap), then rinse very sparingly if needed, and dry immediately and thoroughly.

By following these simple yet effective tips, you can significantly extend the life and brilliance of your cherished Shelly Jewels. After all, your sparkle should never be dulled by a little moisture!