Care Guide
Broken Wave
Follow our care guide to keep your jewellery shining like new
Jewellery Care Guide
Every piece is handcrafted in Cornwall using recycled 925 sterling silver, gold vermeil details and ocean-worn sea glass.
With thoughtful care, your jewellery will age beautifully and remain part of your everyday for years to come.
How to care for your jewellery
All Broken Wave pieces are set in recycled sterling silver.
Sterling silver naturally reacts with air and moisture over time, which can cause tarnishing. This is completely normal and not a fault in the metal. In fact, wearing your jewellery regularly can help prevent tarnish.
To care for sterling silver:
- Polish gently with a soft jewellery cloth
- Store in a dry place when not wearing
- Avoid prolonged exposure to salt water or chlorine
- Remove before applying perfume, lotions or oils
- Dry thoroughly if it becomes wet
Avoid harsh silver dips or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the finish.
Gold vermeil is a thick layer of gold over sterling silver. It offers the warmth of solid gold, with a more accessible feel.
To preserve the gold layer:
- Remove before swimming or showering
- Avoid contact with perfumes, lotions and chemicals
- Store separately to prevent scratching
- Clean gently with a dry, soft cloth
Gold vermeil will naturally soften in tone over time with wear. This is part of its character and can be re-plated if needed.
Each piece of sea glass is naturally shaped by the ocean and no two are the same.
Sea glass itself is durable and water-worn by nature. However, the silver or gold setting still requires care. Avoid knocks or drops, and store pieces separately to protect both the glass and metal.
If your sea glass ever feels loose, please get in touch — I’m always happy to help.
Pearls and shell elements are delicate by nature.
- Avoid contact with perfumes and sprays
- Wipe gently after wearing
- Store away from moisture
These natural materials benefit from gentle handling.
To keep your pieces looking their best, remove before:
- Swimming in the sea or pool
- Showering or bathing
- Exercising
- Applying beauty products
- Sleeping
Occasional water exposure won’t ruin sterling silver, but regular contact can accelerate tarnishing.
Permanent jewellery is designed to be worn daily and fitted specifically to you. While each piece is welded securely, it is still fine jewellery and not indestructible.
If your permanent piece breaks, please get in touch.
Repairs are assessed on a case-by-case basis. While I can’t guarantee that every piece can be repaired free of charge, I’ll always do my best to advise on the best solution.
Jewellery is delicate by nature, and how it wears depends on lifestyle and daily activity. If you experience an issue, email with a photo and a brief description, and we’ll take it from there.
Store your jewellery in a cool, dry place away from humidity.
Keeping pieces in their pouch or box will help reduce exposure to air and prevent scratches. Avoid storing jewellery in bathrooms where moisture levels are high.
Every piece is made in small batches in my Newquay studio. If your jewellery needs attention, please get in touch.
Where possible, I offer repairs and guidance to help extend the life of your piece. Jewellery is meant to be worn and loved—and I’m always here to help you care for it
FAQ's
Generally speaking, its best to avoid wearing your jewellery in water with high level of chemicals such as chlorine and sulphur. The chemicals may cause the jewellery to corrode or tarnish. If you accidentally wear your jewellery in swimming pools, spas, hot tubs or any other high chemical water, its best to remove it immediately afterwards and clean it with mild soapy water or jewellery cleaner to help preserve its appearance and ensure its longevity. Once cleaned make sure your piece is 100% dry to avoid any further damage. Especially with sea glass pieces.
Tarnishing is a natural reaction between sterling silver and air or moisture. It is completely normal and can be polished away with a soft cloth.
It is normal for jewellery to start to look a little dull over time. To give your jewellery that extra shine, you can use the polish cloth that was included with your purchase or a microfibre cloth. To use, gently rub the cloth over the jewellery to buff out any surface marks. Doing this regularly will keep your jewellery looking fresh and like new!
Yes—over time, gold vermeil may soften in colour. Re-plating is possible if needed. Contact me for advice.
With simple care, your Broken Wave pieces will continue to feel effortless and wearable for years to come.
