Jewelry Care Guide From Mocahete

Handcrafted pieces deserve mindful care.

Every piece from Mocahete is made by hand in our small artisan studio and crafted from high-quality metals such as Argentium sterling silver, traditional sterling silver, copper, bronze, and our signature mixed-metal constructions. With proper care, your Mocahete jewelry will age gracefully and develop a rich character unique to the wearer.

Below are a few simple guidelines to help protect the finish, luster, and longevity of your jewelry.

1. Keep Your Jewelry Dry

Water, soaps, and chemicals can alter the appearance of metals over time.

  • Remove all jewelry before bathing, showering, or swimming.

  • Soaps, shampoos, and body washes can leave films or cause spotting.

  • Chlorine in pools is especially harsh on silver and copper alloys.

  • Saltwater accelerates oxidation and can darken or discolor metal surfaces.

Keeping your jewelry dry is one of the easiest ways to protect its finish.

2. Avoid Contact with Lotions, Perfumes & Body Products

Cosmetics and body care products can damage or dull metal finishes.

  • Always allow perfume, hair spray, lotions, or oils to fully dry before putting on your jewelry.

  • Apply all body products first, then wear jewelry with clean, dry hands.

  • Copper, bronze, and silver can all react to chemicals found in soaps, sunscreen, deodorants, and makeup.

A little extra care during your daily routine goes a long way toward preserving the integrity of your piece.

3. Clean Gently

Routine cleaning keeps your jewelry bright and removes natural oxidation.

  • Use a jewelry polishing cloth or other high-quality jewelry polishing cloth to restore luster.

  • Rub lightly using smooth, even strokes.

  • After cleaning, store your piece in a dry pouch or jewelry box to slow oxidation.

Important:

Do NOT use ultrasonic cleaners on jewelry that contains gemstones, cabochons, decorative beads, resins, or mixed-metal components. Ultrasonic vibrations can loosen stones or damage certain materials.

4. Natural Oxidation is Normal

Copper, bronze, and silver naturally deepen in color over time — this is part of their beauty.
Many of our pieces are intentionally oxidized and hand-polished to highlight texture.
A gentle polish will brighten raised surfaces while preserving rich recesses.

5. Store Your Jewelry Thoughtfully

When not in use:

  • Keep your piece in a dry, closed container away from moisture.

  • Use anti-tarnish strips or small cloth bags for additional protection.

  • Store jewelry separately to avoid scratches, especially with mixed metals.