Product Care
Bronze and Silver
Silver and bronze are materials that, by their nature, tend to oxidise over time. This phenomenon should not be considered a defect, but rather an intrinsic characteristic of the materials themselves. The causes of oxidation can be as diverse as contact with air, humidity, water or the pH of the skin. In addition, exposure to body lotions, sun creams, deodorants, perfumes and hairspray can accelerate the oxidation process. Oxidation of metal is an entirely natural process. Bronze is more sensitive to the pH of the skin than other metals, and can sometimes leave dark staining, but this is in no way harmful. To remove oxidation from a piece of jewellery, we recommend using a normal metal cleaning product. Wipe with a soft cloth, wash with a neutral detergent and dry thoroughly.
Alternatively:
Bronze
You can use equal parts water and lemon juice, soaking the object and waiting a few minutes, then washing with a detergent and drying thoroughly.
Silver
You can use water and bicarbonate of soda: mix the two components until you get a thick mixture and gently rub it on the object using a soft cloth. Then rinse, wash with a detergent and dry thoroughly.
NATURAL STONES
Natsuko Toyofuku uses a selection of semi-precious stones, gemstones and zirconiums that may exhibit natural variations in colour, inclusions, veining and striations. These characteristics should be considered distinctive features of natural stones rather than defects.
Natural stones, especially the most delicate ones, require care to preserve their beauty. We recommend:
- Storing them away from the risk of knocks and scratches.
- Protecting them from excessive exposure to sunlight, which can discolour some stones.
- Cleaning them with a soft cloth and lukewarm water, avoiding chemical cleaners.
AKOYA PEARLS
These pearls are cultivated in salt water and renowned for their timeless beauty, lustre and regularity. Native to Japan, they are mainly cultivated in the oyster Pinctada fucata martensii, which produces pearls that are generally smaller in size than other varieties, but with exceptional lustre.
Being delicate, Akoya pearls require care to maintain their lustre. Here are some tips:
- Avoid getting perfumes and sprays directly on the pearls.
- Keep them separate from other jewellery, preferably in a soft cloth or a special case to avoid scratches.
- Wipe them with a soft cloth after use to remove sweat or cosmetic residues.
COLD ENAMELS
These are durable coloured enamels. Unlike traditional enamels, which require firing at high temperatures, cold enamels dry at room temperature. They are durable and resist wear and water well, although they can be scratched more easily than heat-fired enamels.
With this in mind, we recommend:
- Storing them away from the risk of knocks and scratches.
- Cleaning them gently with a soft cloth.
- Avoiding exposure to abrasive chemicals.
Toyofuku