How to Care for Natural Stone Jewelry
Natural stone jewelry is surprisingly durable, but it does benefit from a little care. Unlike metal-only pieces, stone beads and settings can be sensitive to chemicals, temperature changes, and moisture. With the right habits, your pieces will look as good in five years as they do today.
Daily Care
The simplest rule: put your jewelry on last, take it off first. Apply perfume, sunscreen, and moisturiser before putting on your bracelet or necklace. When you take it off at the end of the day, give it a quick wipe with a soft, dry cloth to remove skin oils and residue.
Cleaning Your Stones
For routine cleaning, a soft microfibre cloth is all you need. For a deeper clean:
- Dampen the cloth with lukewarm water (no soap) and gently wipe each bead.
- Dry immediately with a separate soft cloth.
- For textured stones like lava rock, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove buildup from crevices.
Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, steam cleaners, and chemical jewelry solutions. These are designed for metal and can damage porous or softer stones.
Stones That Need Extra Caution
Some stones are more delicate than others:
- Selenite and Malachite: Water-sensitive. Never soak or rinse. Dry cloth only.
- Lapis Lazuli: Porous. Avoid prolonged contact with water or oils.
- Turquoise: Can change colour with exposure to chemicals or extended sunlight.
- Amethyst and Rose Quartz: Can fade if left in direct sunlight for long periods. Store away from windows.
Storage
Store each piece separately in a soft pouch or lined jewelry box. This prevents stones from scratching each other and protects elastic cords from stretching. Keep in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity.
Elastic Cord Care
Most beaded bracelets are strung on stretch cord. To extend its life:
- Roll the bracelet on and off over the widest part of your hand rather than pulling it.
- Avoid getting it wet — water weakens elastic over time.
- If the cord starts to show wear or loses elasticity, contact us. We offer restringing for all VoxArcana bracelets.
When to Seek Professional Help
If a stone is chipped, a clasp is loose, or a cord has snapped, do not try to repair it yourself with household adhesives. Reach out to us at hello@vox-arcana.org and we will advise on repair or replacement options.
Good care is simple care. A soft cloth, dry storage, and a little attention go a long way. Browse our collection.