European beads are beautiful and sturdy beads this is true. Although they are precious whether they're sterling silver, sterling silver with gems, glass or plated silver, all beads need to be cared for. Treat like you would your other precious jewellery.
Importantly keep your European bead jewellery away from harsh chemicals. Remove the jewellery if you are going to swim. This causes the silver to tarnish and turn a brownish colour. Perfume can also tarnish your sterling silver.
Do not bathe with your bracelet. Do not use any ammonia. Do not clean your house whilst wearing your European bead jewellery.It is so easy to catch your bracelet and either damage or lose your beads.
Instead invest in a polishing cloth. These can be purchased at jewellery stores and online.
In a small bowl (I use a small glass) add a drop of washing up liquid or hand soap. Then gently add your beads and bracelet (I always remove the beads from the bracelet) gently add just enough water to cover all of the beads. I let this sit for a minute. I use a soft children's toothbrush and brush the beads very gently but quickly. Before rinsing I use a strainer place the beads in the strainer and gently rinse with cold water.Dry gently then use your polishing cloth.
The strainer ensures that no beads drop or fall (especially down the drain).
