Caring for Hightail Studios Jewelry
Care for your jewelry will depend on the materials used in the piece. Nina’s unique focal pieces are typically made of silver and/or copper, and may incorporate gold, enamel, pearls or gemstones. Brian’s handmade chain is constructed from silver, copper and/or titanium according to ancient patterns. Many of our pieces use multiple materials, requiring special consideration to ensure safe cleaning and preservation.
General
Please carefully store your jewelry to avoid scratches, and keep away from perfumes and chemicals to protect the finish. We like to store jewelry in small zippered plastic bags when we are not wearing it. Always be careful to consider the materials in the piece before using any chemical or mechanical cleaners - gemstones, beads, enamels, and metals may be damaged if improper cleaning methods are used. If in doubt, take your piece to a respected jeweler for proper cleaning.
Jewelry with Unique Patinas
Some of our silver and copper pieces have received a chemical or heat treatment to produce a unique color or antique appearance. To preserve the color and inhibit tarnishing, these pieces have been coated with either wax or lacquer. To clean these pieces, wipe with a soft cloth.
Enamels
Enameling is the process of fusing glass to a metal backing. At Hightail Studios, we typically use either copper or silver as the metal substrate, shaping, forming and texturing it prior to applying the enamel. We use a variety of opaque and transparent enamels for enhanced visual effects. Some of our finished enamels are subsequently placed in a complementary metal setting or accented with gemstones.
Although enameled jewelry is beautiful and durable, it is essentially glass, and should be cared for the same way to ensure many years of enjoyment. In order to prevent cracks, scratches and chips in the glass surface, please carefully handle your enameled jewelry. Avoid bending, twisting, dropping, bumping, and scraping the piece. We recommend wrapping the item with tissue prior to storage in order to protect it from contact with other jewelry items. Keep the enamel surface clean by wiping with a soft cloth; if necessary, wash with lukewarm water and mild soap, and dry with a soft cloth. Exposed metal surfaces may be carefully cleaned with a metal polishing cloth. Professionally clean more complex pieces that incorporate gemstones or hard-to-reach areas.
General Jewelry Guidance
We normally do not apply wax or laquer to un-patinaed metals such as chainmail or brightly polished pendants. Although a coating would slow the tarnishing process, its presence could pose a problem when attempting to restore the metal to its original bright shine. By storing such uncoated pieces away from airborne oxidizing chemicals (e.g., in a zipper-style plastic bag or other airtight container), you can greatly extend the time between cleanings.
When a cleaning becomes desirable, you may refresh the metal's finish to a bright color using common jewelry cleansers according to the directions, ensuring that the cleanser is compatible with the metal. Note that most liquid cleansers contain acids that will damage gemstones, pearls and some stringing materials; in such cases we recommend using an anti-tarnish polishing cloth on the metal only. Ultrasonic cleaners are very effective on plain metal jewelry, however gemstones, pearls, and enamel may become damaged by the ultrasonic activity. If in doubt, cleaning by a professional jeweler is always recommended.
Titanium chain requires minimal care, read more about titanium here.
Please contact us if you have any questions about how to clean Hightail Studios jewelry.