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Unglaz Care Guide

Care Guide

Materials behave according to their nature. This page describes how each one responds to time, air, water, and contact — so you know what to expect and how to respond.

Stainless Steel

How steel behaves

Stainless steel contains chromium, which forms an invisible oxide layer on the surface. This layer protects the metal from corrosion and tarnish, making it significantly more resistant to environmental exposure than silver.

Our stainless steel pieces are finished with either 18K gold plating or mirror silver finish. The steel base resists damage, but the gold layer follows the same physics as any plating — friction and chemical exposure wear it gradually. The mirror silver finish is more resilient as a surface treatment. The steel beneath both finishes remains intact.

Wiping after wear extends the life of the surface finish. No special cleaning required for the base metal.

The most durable material in the collection. Store separately to prevent surface scratches on the finish.

Sterling Silver

How silver behaves

Sterling silver is an alloy of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% copper. When exposed to air, moisture, and sulfur compounds in the environment, it oxidizes. This is not a defect — it is a chemical property of the metal. The result is a darkening called tarnish.

A silver polishing cloth removes tarnish in seconds and restores the original surface. Regular wiping after wear slows the process by removing oils and moisture before they react with the metal.

Some of our silver pieces are finished with gold or rhodium plating. Plating is a thin layer applied to the surface to alter tone or add corrosion resistance. Over time, with friction and chemical exposure, plating wears. This is the natural lifecycle of any plated surface.

Store separately in a soft pouch or lined box. Avoid chlorine, saltwater, perfume, and cosmetics in direct contact.

Stainless Steel 18K Gold / Mirror Silver Tarnish-resistant. Waterproof. Most durable base.
Sterling Silver S925 Hypoallergenic. Natural oxidation. Reversible with cloth.

Questions

Can I shower with my jewelry on
Water, soap, and steam accelerate chemical reactions on metal surfaces and degrade plating faster. Remove all pieces before showering.
Will the gold plating wear off
All plating is a surface layer. Friction and chemical exposure thin it over time. This is a physical property, not a defect. Wiping after wear and avoiding direct chemical contact extends its life significantly.
My silver piece has darkened
Silver reacts with sulfur compounds in the air. The darkening is oxidation — a natural chemical process. A silver polishing cloth reverses it in seconds.
Can I swim or exercise with my jewelry
Chlorine, saltwater, and sweat accelerate surface wear on all finishes. Remove pieces before swimming, exercising, or any prolonged water exposure.
What does the warranty cover
Every piece is backed by a one-year warranty covering manufacturing defects. First exchange within 30 days on unworn items in original condition. Tarnish and plating wear from use are natural material behaviors and are not covered.

Materials have memory.

They respond to how they are worn, stored, and handled. We choose them for their properties. How long they hold their form depends on how well those properties are respected.

Unglaz Care Guide