Jewelry Care
Wear Care
Jewelry should be removed before any exposure to chemical agents such as those in cleaning products, lotions, perfumes, or chlorine pools, or activities that could physically abrade the surface of the gemstone or metal (e.g. gardening, weight lifting, etc.). Wearing gemstone jewelry, particularly rings, requires additional thoughtfulness during wear to avoid scratches. Store unworn jewelry in a manner that avoids pieces from abrading on each other. Jewelry can be cleaned using dish soap, warm water, and a soft clean toothbrush.
Gold
Most of our work chooses 14k yellow gold for its overall durability and retention of luster by disguising fine scratches (due to it’s color and malleability). This alloy is appropriate for regular wear due to it’s improved hardness over higher karat. When well cared for, solid gold pieces stand the test of time and can become a family heirloom. That being said, at Miggi we embrace self-gifting and enjoying gold jewelry as a personal self-expression.
Silver
Sterling silver is a bright and icy precious metal. The surface of sterling pieces can tarnish (oxidize) when not regularly worn, but can be easily be returned to its shiny brightness with a jewelry polishing cloth. To avoid tarnishing when not regularly worn, sterling silver pieces can be stored in a airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Sterling silver is softer than mixed alloy gold, and therefore more susceptible to scratches. If desired, scratches can be removed by polishing with the assistance of a local jeweler. However, regular wear can impart a lovely soft patina and lived-in effect that is unique to aged sterling silver.
Gemstones
At Miggi we embrace many gemstone types due to their color and uniqueness. The frequency and mindfulness of gemstone wear requires consideration of Mohs scale of hardness (1-10) for scratch resistance, particularly for rings. Sapphires (9) and diamonds (10) are the most appropriate for daily wear and are often chosen for engagement rings for this reason. Many stones with hardness from 7-8 are generally good for regular wear, which include tourmaline, garnet, spinel, topaz, morganite, beryl, aquamarine, and some emeralds. Stones such as peridot, moonstone, amethyst, zircon, and tanzanite are more appropriate for occasional or protective wear (6-7). Softer stones like opals and pearls are more easily protected with bezel settings or when worn as pendants or earrings.