Jewelry Care & Materials Guide

At Shimmer & Shawls, we carefully select jewelry designed to combine style, quality, and everyday wearability. Because our collection may feature a variety of materials and finishes, we encourage customers to review each product description for specific material information.

This guide provides general information about the materials we carry and how to care for your jewelry to help preserve its beauty and longevity.

Materials We May Carry

Our collection may include:

  • 18K PVD Gold-Plated Stainless Steel
  • Gold-Plated Jewelry
  • Stainless Steel
  • Sterling Silver
  • Silver-Tone Metals
  • Cubic Zirconia
  • Natural Stones
  • Glass, Crystal, Resin, or Decorative Elements
  • Mixed Materials

Material composition varies by design and will always be disclosed within the individual product listing.

What Is PVD Gold Plating?

PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) is an advanced plating process used to apply a durable layer of gold over stainless steel.

Compared to traditional gold plating, PVD coatings are generally more resistant to fading, scratching, and everyday wear.

While no plated jewelry is completely immune to wear over time, PVD plating is widely recognized for its durability and longevity when properly cared for.

Stainless Steel Jewelry

Stainless steel is a popular jewelry material known for its strength, durability, and resistance to corrosion.

Many stainless steel pieces are suitable for everyday wear and require minimal maintenance.

Depending on the design, some stainless steel jewelry may also feature PVD gold plating or other decorative finishes.

Sterling Silver Jewelry

Sterling silver is a precious metal commonly used in fine jewelry.

Over time, sterling silver may naturally develop tarnish due to exposure to air, moisture, and everyday environmental factors.

Regular cleaning and proper storage can help maintain its appearance.

Gold-Plated Jewelry

Gold-plated jewelry features a layer of gold applied over a base metal.

The longevity of gold plating can vary depending on wear habits, exposure to moisture, skin chemistry, and care practices.

Proper care can help extend the life of plated finishes.

Hypoallergenic Jewelry

Many pieces in our collection are designed with comfort in mind and may feature hypoallergenic materials such as stainless steel.

However, sensitivities vary from person to person. Customers with known metal allergies should review material information carefully before purchasing.

Jewelry Care Tips

To help preserve your jewelry:

  • Apply perfumes, lotions, and cosmetics before putting on jewelry.
  • Avoid contact with chlorine, bleach, cleaning products, and other harsh chemicals.
  • Remove jewelry before swimming, bathing, exercising, or sleeping when possible.
  • Store jewelry in a clean, dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity.
  • Avoid prolonged exposure to moisture.
  • Use a soft cloth to gently clean jewelry after wearing.

Storage Recommendations

Proper storage can help minimize scratching, tarnishing, and wear.

We recommend:

  • Storing pieces separately when possible.
  • Using jewelry pouches, boxes, or organizers.
  • Keeping jewelry away from excessive moisture and humidity.
  • Avoiding direct contact between pieces that may scratch one another.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my jewelry tarnish?

Tarnishing and wear depend on the materials used, environmental conditions, body chemistry, and how the jewelry is cared for. Proper storage and care can help extend the life of your jewelry.

Can I wear my jewelry every day?

Many pieces are suitable for regular wear; however, removing jewelry before swimming, bathing, exercising, or sleeping can help preserve its appearance.

Is all of your jewelry made from the same materials?

No. Materials vary by design and collection. Specific material information will always be disclosed within the individual product listing.

Is all of your jewelry hypoallergenic?

Not all jewelry is made from the same materials. Please review each product description for specific material information and suitability.

Questions?

If you have questions about a specific piece, its materials, care requirements, or wearability, please contact us before purchasing.

We are always happy to help you make an informed decision and find the perfect piece for your collection.