Quick answer: keep plated jewellery dry, put it on after perfume and lotion, take it off before showering, the gym and sleep, wipe it with a soft cloth after wearing and store it in a closed pouch. That's 90% of jewellery care.
Know what your jewellery is made of
Every Oscuro product lists its material under Key Features. Most pieces fall into three groups:
- Electroplated alloy or zinc alloy – most rings, pendants and buckles. The silver or gold colour is a thin plated layer, so it needs the most care.
- Plated copper – some rings and all our grillz. Copper can darken if left wet.
- 304 stainless steel – earrings like the Spiked Star Chain Earrings and Black Spike Huggie Earrings. Tough and low-maintenance.
What damages plating
- Water, sweat and humidity
- Perfume, deodorant, hairspray and body lotion
- Chlorine (pools) and household cleaners
- Friction – rings rubbing against each other or against a desk all day
Daily routine
- Last on, first off. Get dressed, do perfume and hair, then put jewellery on. Take it off first when you get home.
- Wipe after wearing. A soft dry cloth removes sweat and oil before they sit on the plating.
- Air it out. In monsoon or humid weather, let pieces dry for a few minutes before you put them away.
How to clean each type
Rings and pendants
Wipe with a dry microfibre cloth. For grime in detailed pieces like the Pirate Captain Skull Ring, use a soft dry toothbrush. Avoid silver dips and polishing pastes – they can strip plating.
Earrings
Wipe the front, then clean posts and hooks with an alcohol wipe before wearing. This matters most for hooks like the Bleeding Heart Earrings.
Chains and chokers
Lay them flat and wipe along the chain. Untangle knots with two pins rather than pulling.
Grillz
Rinse with cool water after each wear, dry fully and store in their box. Our grillz guide has the details.
Storage that actually works in India
- One small zip pouch per piece, with the clasp closed.
- Add a silica gel sachet (the kind that comes in shoe boxes) to your jewellery box.
- Keep jewellery away from the bathroom.
- Store chains like the Cross Charm Pants Chain separately so they don't scratch rings.
Belts, bags and headwear
PU leather belts and bags: wipe with a damp cloth and keep away from heat and long sun exposure. Knit balaclavas and beanies: hand wash cold and dry flat. See our headwear guide.
Looking after your pieces means they stay sharp longer. Browse all jewellery or read the gothic jewellery guide next.
FAQ
Does plated jewellery turn black?
Plating can darken over time when it meets sweat, water, perfume or humid air. Keeping pieces dry and stored in a pouch slows this down a lot.
Can I shower with my rings on?
It's best not to. Water, soap and shampoo wear down plating and can dull rhinestones. Take jewellery off before showering or swimming.
How do I clean stainless steel earrings?
Wipe them with a soft cloth and clean the posts or hooks with an alcohol wipe before wearing.
How should I store chains so they don't tangle?
Store each chain separately in a small zip pouch with the clasp closed, or hang it.