Copper

To keep your copper jewelry looking new, keep it clean. You can occasionally wash your copper jewelry with a mild soap, but always be sure to dry and polish afterwards with a soft cloth or towel. We also recommend removing your copper jewelry before going to bed then wiping it with a soft cloth to remove skins oils, dust, etc and storing it in a box, bag or any type of airtight container.

All Ray of Light Jewels copper pieces have been sealed with a jeweler’s wax to maintain a shiny finish and to help prevent tarnishing. If you find that the wax has worn off over time and your jewelry has darkened as copper naturally does, you can easily restore it’s finish by using one of the following at-home methods: 

FIRST, try salt and lemon - pour equal parts salt and squeezed lemon juice onto jewelry and gently rub in until any residue or tarnishing is removed. You may need to use a small brush or old toothbrush to get into tiny crevices or chain links. Rinse with water and polish with a soft cloth or towel. 

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If the above method does not work, it could be that compounds in certain lotions, perfumes, etc. have reacted with the sealing wax leaving a buildup on the jewelry. Acetone (nail polish remover) will remove any dark spots caused from this type of reaction quickly and easily. Dip a cotton swab in acetone and wipe the surface of the copper while avoiding the stone, since some stones are fragile and can be damaged. Rinse with water, then finish with the salt and lemon method above. 

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Copper is a healing metal and small amounts are absorbed through the skin when it is worn, but it can leave a gray or light green spot on your skin if your body’s pH slightly is acidic or you wear certain types of beauty products. This is a normal effect of copper reacting with its environment and while it can happen to some, it does not happen to everyone. If it does occur, it can easily be washed off with soap and water. If you would like to prevent this effect altogether, coating the area of the jewelry that touches your skin (the inner band of a ring, for example) with a liquid jewelry shield product or clear nail polish will prevent the reaction by providing a barrier between the metal and your skin.

 

Sterling Silver, 14k Gold Filled and 14k Rose Gold Filled Jewelry

Sterling silver and gold filled jewelry will last a lifetime. It may get dirty and appear dark or dull from regular wear, but can always be cleaned to look new again. To clean these metals, follow the method below:

Rinse with water and polish with a soft cloth or towel.