Design Care
Real metals and stones are used for all pieces. sterling silver and gold fill are used for all ear wires. There is no plated metal used on any items unless requested. ALL ITEMS OR MADE BY HAND WITH 95% BEING MADE BY NKRUMAH JENNINGS, owner of Anu Rock & Metal jewelry.
Silicon pouches left in jewelry boxes protect jewelry from oxidation because the keep away the moisture. For cuffs, rings and all pieces that are big and sturdy very fine steel wool, #0000 grade, can be used to polish and clean.
For more delicate pieces they can be fully submerged in lemon water or rubbing ketchup on the piece with your fingers for up to 15 mins will leave a brighter polish. After soaking the piece must be rinsed and dried fully. This technique must be used at first sight of oxidation. if a piece turns brown it is much harder to bring back. the brown color is an indication of oxidation mixed with dirt. All metals get dirty and oxidize and will require a stronger solution in this condition. Be sure to put on jewelry after using hair sprays and misty or spraying cosmetics.
When silver, gold, brass, and copper turn black metal cleaners which are much stronger will be necessary and can be purchased at any hardware or jewelry store or from ARMj by special request.
If you are not sure about whether or not a piece is sturdy enough for steel wool cleaning and handling just make sure, as in the case with doornockers, that you handle them lightly so they don't lose their shape. However, mostly all pieces can be steel wooled which is the surest way to get them clean and steel wool can be used on the dirtiest of pieces.
Polishing is not necessary depends on whether or not you as the owner like the color change. A large percent of our clients like oxidized pieces. Our pieces have a timeless look each one even the smallest is kin to a sculpture so the oxidation just makes them antiques if that look is desired.
However u choose you will find brass to be a nice alternative to gold because the color is great and sometimes darker, it is much much cheaper, and it can always be maintained and cleaned.
Enjoy your piece(s) and take care
Nkrumah Jennings
Owner/Designer
Anu Rock & Metal jewerly
