Caring for your Maree Grant jewellery

At Maree Grant, I craft unique silver jewellery of heirloom quality. To ensure your cherished pieces remain as beautiful as the day you received them, follow these care guidelines. Proper care will keep your silver, pearls, and enamel sparkling for years to come.

Frequently asked questions about jewellery care

I have  put together answers to common questions about keeping your handcrafted silver jewellery in pristine condition. From daily wear to professional help, find all the information you need right here.

Why does silver jewellery vary in price so much?

My jewellery is made from ethically sourced materials. I price my jewellery using a formula that includes the weight and price of the metal (at the time of making), and a profit margin which covers, labour, electricity, tools and equipment etc. All my jewellery is handcrafted and finished by me. Mass produced jewellery is much cheaper because the makers uses 1 cast thousands of times, have lower overhead costs, such as cheaper labour to finish the jewellery and often use poorer quality silver, pearls and other materials.  While some New Zealand designed jewellery is completed made in NZ, some designers do not clarify this so it is worth checking any brand you look at, if you want to wear ethical jewellery. 

What are your top tips for keeping your silver jewellery looking its best?
Silver will oxidise (look dark and dull) if it is left out in the open air and through general handling. To stay shiny and clean longer, keep your jewellery in a cloth bag or a jewellery box with a lid. Avoid wearing it while showering or swimming. To brighten up jewellery, a simple silver cloth can be purchased and used regularly. Avoid scrubbing with harsh cleaners. To care for pearl jewellery, wipe them with a soft cloth after each wear to remove oils and chemicals, and store them separately in a breathable pouch. Put pearls on last—after makeup and perfume—to avoid damage, and wear them often to keep them hydrated. Avoid water, ultrasonic cleaners, harsh chemicals, and storing in plastic. Caring for enamel jewellery involves gentle cleaning with mild, soapy, lukewarm water and storing it away from harsh chemicals, extreme heat, and direct sunlight, as enamel is essentially glass. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, ultrasonic devices, or harsh chemicals.

When should someone think about getting a jeweller to professionally clean or repair their piece?
  • Jewellery that has been soldered together by hand needs to be altered or fixed by a silversmith or jeweller. This is because as the making process evolves, different strengths of solder are used to ensure they hold. A jeweller will know how to manage the repairs.
  • Different metals may be included in the piece that you are not aware of (some cast, mass-produced jewellery have low-grade silver or hollow wire that has been filled with a variety of compounds) and these can melt differently than expected.
  • Stones or gems are set after the whole piece is complete and may need to be removed before repairs are done.
  • Deep scratches or chipped in a piece will need expert attention and the jeweller can advise on the right solution to restore the piece. 

Are there any things people should definitely not do with their silver pieces?

Avoid chemicals and harsh cleaning products. Swimming pools and hot pools also contain chemicals that can tarnish.

How do I care for my Kanzashi hair ornaments?

I wear my plain silver kanzashi everyday and the key to wearing is to make sure they are secure in your hair. Then simple gently clean them with a soft, dry cloth at the end of the day. To care for your Kanzashi hair ornaments in general, gently clean them with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid submerging them in water or using harsh chemicals, as this can damage delicate materials and finishes. Store them in a dry, safe place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading or warping. The Kanzashi are meant to be worn but still need to be handled with care, especially those with intricate designs or delicate embellishments, to preserve their beauty and structure.

What should I do if my silver jewellery starts to tarnish?
Tarnish is a natural process for silver. You can easily remove light tarnish with a soft silver polishing cloth. For heavier tarnish, a gentle silver cleaning solution can be used, but always follow the product instructions carefully and rinse thoroughly afterwards. Ensure your silver is completely dry before storing it.

Cherish your handcrafted treasures

With proper care, your Maree Grant jewellery will remain a beautiful testament to New Zealand's flora and fauna for generations. If you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to reach out to me.