Maybe you received a unique Mokume Gane piece over the winter holidays and want to know how to maintain its beauty, or perhaps you’re considering Mokume Gane for the first time, and want to know what you’ll be getting into in terms of care. Even if you’ve had a treasured item for years, it’s a good idea to check in on the maintenance of your jewelry. No matter where you are in your journey, we have good news: caring for Mokume Gane is easy! There are, however, a few ways Mokume Gane differs in care from other jewelry. Here are some important tips we’d like to share:
- Daily Wear is Great! Our Mokume Gane is made with layers of metals (silver, gold, palladium, platinum. depending on your specific design). The metals used, and the blend of these metals renders the jewelry strong. You can certainly wear your Mokume Gane every day – show it off!
Note: As with any jewelry, avoiding harsh chemicals and hard impact is recommended.
- Appearance Will (and Should) Change with Time. The layers of Mokume Gane are meant to tell a story- your story- which changes and develops with time and wear. Expect to see some changes in your jewelry from contact with you and your environment. Fine scratches will build up to create a beautiful patina. This is a normal, organic, and lovely aspect to Mokume Gane. It “lives” alongside you, showing the wear of time.
Note: If you originally had your ring oxidized, that will lighten with time, if you’d like to refresh your finish at any time please get in touch! We can refinish your ring for you or advise on easy steps you can do yourself.
- If You Accidentally Oxidize Your Ring. Gold and palladium will not tarnish over time, silver can be oxidized if exposed to sulfur or chemicals like chlorine or bleach. If you do unintentionally oxidize your ring, it can easily be cleaned with a regular silver cleaner.
- You Can Occasionally Refresh Your Mokume Gane Jewelry’s Satin Finish At Home. The metal may grow more shiny/polished looking over time, so to bring back the semi matte/satin finish, you can gently rub the surface with a Scotch-Brite pad.
Note: This will remove a fine layer of metal, so shouldn’t be done on a regular basis.
- For Oxidized Styles, You Can Easily Darken/ Freshen the Oxidation. To do this, you can use Liver of Sulfur (we recommend purchasing in gel form for ease of application). Just apply a small amount to the surface of the ring and rub it in. Allow it to sit for a few seconds and wipe off any excess. Chlorine also oxidizes silver, so a dip in the pool will do the trick.
Note: If you live somewhere warm enough for a pool in January, we Rhode Islanders are a little jealous right about now!
Bonus tip: We offer repair, resizing, and refinishing services, as well as custom designs. So if you ever have concerns or questions about your Mokume Gane jewelry, we’re here for you!
