Jewelry Care

How to Care for Your Stainless Steel Jewelry

At THE ARCIVE, we design jewelry built for real life, pieces you can wear every day without worrying. Our 316L surgical-grade stainless steel is tarnish-resistant, hypoallergenic, and built to last. With a little care, your pieces will stay beautiful for years.

The Care Basics

1. Water Is Usually Fine, But Give It a Rest

Stainless steel handles water well — showering, hand-washing, and light splashes typically will not damage it. That said, prolonged exposure to chlorinated pool water or salt water is still best avoided where possible, and it is good practice to dry pieces off after swimming.

2. Apply Products First, Jewelry Last

Perfume, body lotion, sunscreen, and hairspray can leave a residue that dulls any polished metal over time. The rule is simple: spray and moisturise first, let it dry, then put your jewelry on last.

3. Remove During Exercise

Sweat can dull metal finishes over time. Remove your pieces before workouts and wipe them gently with a soft cloth afterwards if they came into contact with sweat.

4. Clean Gently and Regularly

Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently wipe each piece after wearing. For a deeper clean, use mild soap and lukewarm water with a soft cloth, never hot water. Pat dry immediately and let air dry completely before storing. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, abrasive cloths, bleach, or alcohol, as these can dull the finish over time.

5. Store Properly

Store each piece separately in a soft pouch or jewelry box to avoid scratching. Keep jewelry away from direct sunlight and humidity. A cool, dry drawer is ideal. Leaving pieces loose together causes tangling and surface scratches over time.

Caring for Specific Pieces

Rings

Rings take the most daily wear. Remove them when washing hands, applying hand cream, or working with your hands. Store flat or upright in a ring holder.

Necklaces and Chains

Fasten clasps before storing to prevent tangling. Store hanging or flat, never knotted. Clean chain links gently with a soft cloth after each wear.

Earrings

Clean posts and backs regularly. Store in pairs in a small pouch or earring holder to avoid losing backs or scratching the fronts.

Bracelets and Bangles

Remove before any physical activity or washing. Store flat or on a bracelet stand to maintain shape.

What to Expect Over Time

Stainless steel is one of the most durable jewelry materials available — it will not flake, peel, or wear through the way plated metals can. With basic care, your pieces are built to look great for years. If a piece ever loses some of its shine, a gentle polish with a soft jewelry cloth can often bring it right back.

Still Have Questions?

Have a question about caring for a specific piece? We are always happy to help. Reach out via our Contact page and we will get back to you as soon as possible.