Care Guide

Discovering the world of fine jewellery creation and care has been an unexpected journey for me. As the founder of Sentient Designs Co, specializing in exquisite crystal and fossil resin inlaid rings, I have immersed myself in every aspect of this art form.

While resin jewellery and its care may not be widely known, it is a material commonly used in the creation of fine jewellery. As resin plays a crucial role in our pieces, I believe it is essential to provide our clients with comprehensive information on how to care for and preserve their cherished jewellery.

To ensure the longevity and pristine appearance of your piece throughout life's adventures, here are some valuable tips and tricks.

Resin, technically classified as a polymer, possesses slight porosity. Although the metal holding your gems is stronger than the resin setting, it is the resin setting that is most susceptible to damage or discoloration. When you acquire one of our pieces, treating it with the same care as any fine jewellery is highly recommended. Here are key points to consider:

Avoid storing your jewellery in direct sunlight. While our pieces are crafted using high-grade jewellery resin with UV resistant properties, prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause slight yellowing. We understand the desire to capture stunning photos for social media or reviews in natural sunlight, but please refrain from leaving your piece in direct light for extended periods.

Resin is sensitive to high temperatures. Avoid subjecting your jewellery to excessive heat from sources such as hair dryers, hot tubs, or intense lighting. High heat can cause the setting to expand and detach from the metal. If the setting becomes detached, it cannot be reattached, requiring the piece to be
returned to us for resetting.

Resin can be scratched by sharp or abrasive items, including keys or other rings. We recommend removing your jewellery before engaging in house or garden work or any activities that may expose it to stones, sand, metal, sponges, or brushes. Despite these precautions, rest assured that the inner materials are protected by a clear layer of resin as a final step, safeguarding the precious material beneath even in the case of deep scratches or chips.

Chemicals present in lotions, perfumes, shampoos, soaps, and other products can dull or discolour the setting. It is advisable to apply these items before putting on your jewellery or after removing it, rather than while wearing it. Take extra care around aggressive chemicals like cigarette smoke, cleaning
agents, and alcohol-based products such as acetone (nail polish remover) or perfume. Since COVID-19, the use of cleaning supplies and hand sanitizers has increased. Since hand sanitizers are alcohol-based, they can be harmful to the settings of our pieces. Please exercise caution when using any type of hand sanitizer, synthetic or organic, and remove your jewellery before application. Only wear your jewellery again after the sanitizer has dissipated.

Now that we have covered what to avoid, let's delve into the care, cleaning, and storage of your jewellery containing resin:

To clean or lightly polish the setting without causing damage, we recommend using water and a mild soap. Remember that a little soap goes a long way, so use it sparingly. Ensure thorough rinsing before wearing the jewellery again.

Metals may naturally tarnish over time due to exposure to oxygen, water, and individual skin chemistry. You can remove tarnish using a polishing pad or cloth, or a specific tarnish removing product. However, be cautious to avoid the resin setting while using these items, as they can damage it. With regular wear, you may notice less tarnishing, as your skin acts as a natural polishing agent for the metal, maintaining its shine and cleanliness.

You can store your jewellery in any container, ranging from a small bag to a jewellery box, as long as it is airtight and kept in a cool, dark, and dry area. I personally remove my pieces when showering, sleeping, or cleaning, and store them in their box during prolonged periods of non-wear. However, these practices are not mandatory.

The treatment of your jewellery, from its creation to the joy of wearing it every day, should be characterized by respect, joy, and love. At Sentient Designs Co, we take immense pride in the craftsmanship of our jewellery, using only the highest grade materials for casting and setting. While we make every effort to prevent discoloration, scratching, and tarnishing, it is ultimately up to our clients to care for their jewellery once it is in their hands. Feel free to wear your jewellery daily, and may the provided information assist you in maintaining its pristine condition, ensuring it remains new and radiant throughout life's extraordinary moments.