Care Guide

Everything I make is formed from real materials.

Sterling silver. Pure silver. Gold of different karats, from 9ct through to 24ct. Various hardwoods and softwoods. Different leathers. Mulberry silk.

Most of these pieces are ritual or ceremonial in nature. Even when worn as jewellery, they are not designed as casual, disposable fashion. They can absolutely be worn daily by a practitioner, but they are made with intention and from materials that require awareness rather than carelessness.

Each material has its own properties. None of them are synthetic. None of them are indestructible. They respond to environment, pressure, moisture and time.

Understanding this is the foundation of proper care.

Metals:

Gold

I work across multiple karats. The higher the karat, the higher the gold content.

9ct and 18ct are alloyed for additional strength.
22ct is softer.
24ct is pure gold.

Pure gold is naturally soft. It can mark or shift under force more readily than lower karat alloys. This is not a flaw. It is simply the physical truth of unalloyed gold.

If you are wearing higher karat gold regularly, it is wise to remove it during heavy manual work, impact activity, or situations where sustained pressure is applied.

Silver

I use both sterling silver and pure silver.

Sterling is alloyed for durability. Pure silver has a higher silver content and is slightly softer.

All silver oxidises over time. This appears as darkening or patina. It is a natural reaction with air and moisture.

If you prefer a brighter surface, use a soft polishing cloth. Avoid aggressive chemical dips, especially on pieces that combine silver with wood, leather or silk. Strong chemicals are rarely kind to mixed materials.

Wood

Wood is organic and responsive.

Keep wooden elements dry.
Avoid prolonged exposure to strong sunlight.
Avoid rapid changes in temperature or humidity.

If the surface begins to look dry after extended use, a very light application of a natural oil can be applied and then wiped back. This is occasional maintenance, not routine treatment.

Leather

Leather should not be soaked.

If it becomes wet, allow it to dry naturally at room temperature. Do not place it near radiators or direct heat sources.

Store away from prolonged heat and excessive moisture.

If the leather appears dry over time, a small amount of neutral conditioner can be applied sparingly.

Silk (Mulberry Silk)

Mulberry silk is strong for its weight, but it remains a natural fibre.

Avoid prolonged moisture.
Avoid spraying perfume or alcohol-based products directly onto it.
Store gently folded or laid flat rather than compressed under weight.

Cleaning should be minimal and careful.

Mixed Material & Ritual Objects

Some objects combine metal, wood, leather and textile elements.

These should not be submerged in water.

For cleansing purposes, dry methods such as smoke or sound are generally safer than salt water or chemical solutions, particularly where multiple materials meet.

Storage

When not in use:

Store pieces separately where possible.
Softer metals can mark if pressed against harder objects over time.
Keep in a dry environment with moderate, stable humidity.
A soft cloth pouch or lined box is usually sufficient.

Wear & Ageing

Over time you may notice:

Surface marks on higher karat gold
Patina developing on silver
Subtle tonal shifts in wood
Natural softening in leather

These changes are part of material ageing. They are not signs of failure.

These objects are made to last, but they are made from honest materials. With reasonable care and an understanding of their nature, they should serve you for many years.

If you are ever uncertain about maintenance, you are welcome to contact me directly.