Native American jewelry is crafted to last generations when properly cared for. Follow these guidelines to preserve the beauty and integrity of your pieces.
Turquoise is a relatively soft, porous stone that requires thoughtful care. Its beauty deepens over time when treated with respect, and many collectors prize the natural patina that develops with wear.
Keep turquoise away from household cleaners, perfumes, lotions, sunscreen, and hair products. These chemicals can discolor the stone and damage its natural luster. Always put on your turquoise jewelry last, after applying cosmetics and fragrances.
Remove turquoise jewelry before washing hands, showering, swimming, or doing dishes. Turquoise is porous and can absorb water, which may alter its color or cause damage over time. If your turquoise gets wet, pat it dry immediately with a soft cloth.
Extended exposure to direct sunlight can fade the color of turquoise. Store your pieces out of direct sunlight when not being worn. Brief everyday wear in sunlight is perfectly fine.
Turquoise can be scratched by harder stones and metals. Store each piece separately in a soft cloth pouch or in a compartmentalized jewelry box to prevent surface damage.
Sterling silver is the foundation of most Native American jewelry. While silver naturally tarnishes over time, proper care keeps it bright and beautiful. Some artisans intentionally oxidize silver for contrast -- take care not to polish away these intentional dark areas.
Use a soft silver polishing cloth to gently buff the silver surfaces. Avoid polishing areas with intentional oxidation (dark recesses that create contrast and depth in the design). Never use abrasive cleaners or steel wool.
Store silver in airtight bags or anti-tarnish cloth when not wearing it. Silica gel packets placed near stored jewelry can help absorb moisture. Wearing your silver regularly actually helps prevent tarnish, as the natural oils from your skin keep it polished.
For light cleaning, use warm water with a small amount of mild dish soap and a soft cloth. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely. Avoid commercial silver dips on pieces with stones, as the chemicals can damage turquoise, coral, and other materials.
Each stone in Native American jewelry has unique properties. Here are care tips for commonly used stones beyond turquoise.
Coral is organic and soft. Avoid chemicals, water exposure, and extreme heat. Clean with a dry, soft cloth only. Store away from harder stones.
Lapis is moderately soft and porous. Avoid prolonged water contact and chemicals. Wipe clean with a damp cloth and dry immediately. Store separately to prevent scratching.
Like coral, spiny oyster is organic. Protect from chemicals, extreme temperatures, and impact. Clean gently with a dry soft cloth.
White Buffalo (howlite) is porous and relatively soft. Treat it with the same care as turquoise: avoid water, chemicals, and prolonged sun exposure.
Sugilite is harder than turquoise but still benefits from careful handling. Clean with a damp cloth and avoid harsh chemicals. Store separately.
Opal contains water and can crack in dry conditions or extreme temperatures. Store in a humid environment and avoid sudden temperature changes. Never use ultrasonic cleaners.
To keep your Native American jewelry in the best condition, avoid exposing it to the following:
Apply fragrances and body products before putting on jewelry. Chemical compounds can discolor stones and corrode silver.
Remove jewelry before swimming in pools, hot tubs, or the ocean. Chlorine and salt can damage both metal and stone.
Household cleaners, bleach, ammonia, and other strong chemicals can permanently damage turquoise and other stones. Always remove jewelry before cleaning.
Never use ultrasonic or steam cleaners on Native American jewelry. The vibrations and heat can loosen stone settings and damage delicate inlay work.
Remove rings and bracelets during heavy physical activity, gardening, and sports. Impact can crack stones and bend silver settings.
Avoid leaving jewelry in hot cars, near heaters, or in freezing conditions. Rapid temperature changes can crack stones and weaken settings.
Our team is knowledgeable about the care requirements for every piece in our collection. Do not hesitate to reach out with any questions about maintaining your Native American jewelry.
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