How do I clean my metal/enamel jewelry?

Whether the metal is sterling silver or brass, it is finished with a patina that gives it an oxidized appearance.  The best way to brighten the metal when tarnishing does exist over time is to use very fine steel wool (available at a hardware store) then wipe with a damp cloth.  The enamel should not change in color over time nor should any gold-fill accents.

Note:  to best prevent against tarnishing, keep your piece in a place that is not exposed to light and air, such as in a box,  drawer or ziplock bag.

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How do I clean my paper/collage jewelry?

The paper collages are finished with an acrylic varnish that is water resistant but they should be cleaned only with a dry cloth or paper towel (or barely damp) as anything too wet will damage the varnish.  The metal accents may be cleaned with the fine steel wool mentioned above.

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Can my paper collage jewelry get wet?

Because the pieces are finished with an acrylic varnish they are water resistant but not waterproof.  For example, getting caught in the rain would be OK, but swimming, not so much.  (Though I have had customers put their pieces through the wash and they survived quite well.  Not recommended, however.

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Is it possible to have the length of necklaces adjusted?

Yes.  Beaded necklaces can be re-strung to be made longer or shorter for a small fee.  Chains or cords can be replaced to the desired length.

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May I use my own chain or cord on the pendants?

As long as the original chain or cord can be removed from the piece you can certainly use your own. The original price would be adjusted.  For example, some customers have multiple pieces that use the cable I provide and they don't need an additional one with a new piece.

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How do I open the clasp on the neck cables?

The oxidized sterling silver neck cables I often use for my pieces are a visually continuous loop which has a clean appearance.  One end of the cable fits into the other end in a small opening and stays in place with friction.  (It's actually called a "friction clasp").  Look for the seam in the back of the cable and pull it apart.  When placing it back in, be sure to push it all the way until you feel it stop.  (This is sounding much more complicated than it is, but I do get a lot of questions about this)

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Are sterling silver and/or gold-fill ear wires OK for people with metal allergies?

Both sterling silver and gold-fill are composed of alloys that contain many different metals that some people are allergic to.  The ear wires can be replaced though I would have to order surgical steel, fine silver, pure gold, etc as I don't normally keep them in stock.

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Other questions?

Please feel free to email me at:  laurenpollarojewelry@earthlink.net

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