Caring for Your Heirloom Turquoise & Pearl Jewelry: A Complete Guide
Preserve the beauty and legacy of your handcrafted pieces for generations to come.
When you invest in handcrafted turquoise and pearl jewelry, you're not just buying an accessory – you're acquiring a piece of wearable art that tells a story. At Legacy by Running VR, each piece is meticulously hand-tied with premium materials: North American turquoise, South Sea pearls, and solid gold or gold filled components. To ensure your jewelry maintains its beauty and becomes a true family heirloom, proper care is essential.
Why Proper Care Matters
Your Legacy by Running VR pieces are crafted with some of nature's most beautiful – and delicate – materials. Turquoise, formed over millions of years, carries unique characteristics that require gentle handling. South Sea pearls, cultivated in pristine waters, possess an organic beauty that needs protection. Understanding how to care for these materials ensures your investment retains both its monetary and sentimental value.
Turquoise: Honoring Nature's Masterpiece
The Gentle Approach
Turquoise is naturally porous, making it sensitive to liquids and chemicals. Here's how to keep your turquoise vibrant:
- Clean with care: Use only a soft, slightly damp cloth to remove surface dirt and natural oils
- Avoid all chemicals: Never use jewelry cleaners, ultrasonic cleaners, or household cleaning products
- No water immersion: Soaking can cause discoloration or structural damage
- Protect from heat: Prolonged sun exposure or heat can fade the beautiful blue-green hues
- Handle gently: Despite its beauty, turquoise can be brittle – avoid dropping or impacts
Storage Solutions
Store your turquoise pieces in individual soft pouches or lined jewelry compartments to prevent scratching against harder materials.
South Sea Pearls: Preserving Ocean Elegance
The "Last On, First Off" Rule
Pearls should be the last thing you put on when getting dressed and the first thing you remove. This simple rule protects them from:
- Perfumes and hairsprays
- Makeup and lotions
- Accidental chemical exposure
Post-Wear Care
After each wear, gently wipe your pearls with a soft, clean cloth to remove body oils and environmental residue. This simple step dramatically extends their luster and life.
What to Avoid
- Ultrasonic cleaners (can damage the nacre)
- Harsh chemicals or abrasives
- Storage in airtight containers (pearls need slight moisture)
Gold Components: Maintaining the Luxury
Whether your piece features solid gold or gold-filled components, proper care ensures lasting beauty:
- Regular cleaning: Warm, soapy water with mild dish soap works perfectly
- Gentle polishing: Use a jewelry polishing cloth to restore shine
- Chemical avoidance: Keep away from bleach, chlorine, and harsh cleaners
The Legacy Advantage: Nylon Construction
Unlike traditional silk stringing, Legacy by Running VR pieces are hand-tied on premium nylon cord. This choice offers several advantages:
- Superior durability: Nylon withstands daily wear better than silk
- Water resistance: More forgiving if accidentally exposed to moisture
- Longevity: Reduces the frequency of restringing needs
- Strength: Better supports the weight of premium turquoise and pearls
Daily Wearing Tips
Before You Go Out
- Apply perfumes, lotions, and hairspray before putting on your jewelry
- Check clasps and connections for security
- Ensure pieces aren't tangled or twisted
During Wear
- Be mindful during activities that might cause impact
- Remove jewelry before swimming, exercising, or cleaning
- Avoid contact with harsh chemicals or abrasive surfaces
After Wearing
- Wipe down each piece with a soft cloth
- Check for any loose stones or wear on the nylon cord
- Store properly in individual pouches
Signs It's Time for Professional Attention
Watch for these indicators:
- Fraying or stretching in the nylon cord
- Loose stones or settings
- Diminished luster in pearls
- Tarnishing in gold components
- Difficulty with clasps
Creating Your Care Routine
Develop a simple routine that becomes second nature:
- Daily: Wipe pieces after wear, store properly
- Weekly: Quick inspection for any issues
- Monthly: Gentle cleaning as needed
The Investment in Care
Proper care isn't just about maintaining appearance – it's about preserving value. Well-maintained turquoise and pearl jewelry often appreciates over time, especially pieces crafted with premium materials and artisan techniques.
Your Legacy by Running VR jewelry represents a connection to heritage, craftsmanship, and natural beauty. With proper care, these pieces will tell their story for generations, becoming true family heirlooms that carry both monetary and emotional value.
Questions About Care?
Every piece of Legacy by Running VR jewelry comes with detailed care instructions, but we're always here to help. Proper care ensures that your investment in handcrafted beauty continues to bring joy for years to come.
Remember: When in doubt, gentle care is always the right choice. Your jewelry will thank you with lasting beauty and enduring elegance.
