Caring For Your Jewellery
At ZéFir, we pride ourselves on quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. Each unique piece is designed in-house and meticulously refined by our designers.
Designed in ZéFir house, our jewellery is available in sterling silver, 18k gold vermeil, 14k solid vermeil, rose gold vermeil. All jewellery is nickel free.
From the initial drawings to the final samples, we work closely with all partners within our supply chain to ensure that our jewellery is reflective of the love and consideration that goes into every step of the design process.
To ensure that your jewels last as long as possible, we recommend you follow the below care information.
Moisture
Exposure to water and moisture when showering, perfuming, hand washing, exercising and swimming can cause jewels to tarnish.
Storage
We suggest that you do not store your jewels in our gift boxes long term. Keep your jewellery in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Sterling Silver
We use 925 sterling silver, which is a lightweight metal made of 92.5% pure silver. The remaining 7.5% comprises alloy, which makes our jewellery durable and perfect for everyday wear.
What to know about sterling silver jewellery
- Proactive maintenance is the best way to prolong the lifespan of sterling silver.
- Contact with perfume and cosmetic products can cause sterling silver jewellery to tarnish.
- To mitigate against tarnishing, wear your jewellery often! The more you wear it, the less maintenance it needs.
How to store sterling silver jewellery
- If not stored properly, sterling silver jewellery can be prone to oxidising — this is the ‘tarnishing’ that you may experience.
- We suggest that you do not store your jewels in our gift boxes long term. Keep your jewellery in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Store it with the anti-tarnishing tab to protect against moisture during storage.
How to clean sterling silver jewellery
- Proactive maintenance is the best way to prolong the lifespan of sterling silver.
- Clean by wiping with a soft, dry polishing cloth, or use a silver cleaner solution to soak the jewellery before buffing gently with a silver polishing cloth.
- Ultrasonic cleaners are safe to use on silver jewellery.
- Avoid using abrasive cleaners or brushes, as these can scratch the silver.
18k Gold Vermeil
Our 18k gold vermeil (pronounced ver-may) is a high-quality method of gold plating, whereby sterling silver is coated with a thick layer of 18k solid gold.
What to know about 18k gold vermeil jewellery
- Vermeil will naturally tarnish when exposed to environmental factors like air pollution, moisture, and items that contain sulphur. However, it is possible to restore the shine of 18k gold vermeil jewellery, so long as the plating has not worn away.
- Contact with perfume and cosmetic products can damage 18k gold vermeil jewellery.
How to store 18k gold vermeil jewellery
- We suggest that you do not store your pieces in our gift boxes long term.
- Store in a safe, dry place—such as an anti-tarnish pouch or case—away from direct sunlight. This will help to protect your pieces when they are not being worn.
- Store it with the anti-tarnishing tab to protect against moisture during storage.
How to clean 18k gold vermeil jewellery
- Proactive maintenance is crucial.
- To keep tarnish from setting in, clean your pieces regularly by gently buffing them with a soft, dry polishing cloth. Note that some polishing cloths can be abrasive, so ensure not to over-polish.
14k Gold Vermeil & White Gold Vermeil
Our 14k gold vermeil jewellery is more durable than 18k gold vermeil, which is softer and susceptible to scratching and bending. 14k gold vermeil is therefore more suitable for jewellery which, when properly cared for, can last longer. Be mindful of how you wear it, as exercise or rigorous activity could damage your jewellery.
How to store 14k gold vermeil jewellery
When not being worn, store your jewellery in a safe, dry place where it is away from direct sunlight.
How to clean 14k gold vermeil jewellery
While 14k gold vermeil is made to last longer, it does require gentle care and occasional polishing. To maintain the shine of your jewellery, gently clean it with a soft-bristled brush or cloth. Don’t use abrasive cleaners. Please note 14k gold vermeil jewels may tarnish sometimes.
Lab-Grown Diamonds, Zircons, Gemstones, Jade
How to storeStore jewellery separately in soft pouches or boxes to avoid scratches. Avoid exposing stones to harsh chemicals, perfumes, or excessive heat. Remove jewellery before exercising, swimming, or showering.
How to clean
Avoid ultrasonic cleaners or steamers, as zircons are more fragile and can chip. Clean with a soft damp cloth.Avoid hot water, steamers, or sudden temperature changes.Don’t soak porous stones.
Pearls
Natural pearls are delicate in nature and require special care to ensure they stay beautiful and last for years to come. Here are some tips on how to care for your pearl jewels.
Wearing Your Pearls
Put on your pearls last and remove them first. This helps to minimise their contact with creams, oils, cosmetics, and hairspray, which can damage them over time.
Avoid wearing your pearls if the string gets wet. A wet cord or string will stretch and damage the pearls.
Do not wear your pearls in water. Exposure to water from swimming, showering, or washing dishes can damage the pearls' lustre and cause them to deteriorate.
Pearls are also sensitive to body acids. Avoid wearing them during strenuous exercise or activities that cause excessive sweating.
Store and wear your pearls with care, as they are soft and can easily become scratched. Avoid storing them with other jewellery items that may rub against them and cause damage.
The best way to store pearls is in a soft, silky pouch or a jewellery box with separate compartments. This protects them from dust, sunlight, and other harmful elements.
Cleaning Your Pearls
After wearing your pearls, wipe them with a soft cloth to remove any body oils or residue.
Clean your pearls gently with a small amount of mild washing liquid and warm water. Avoid using harsh detergents or chemicals that can damage the pearls.
Dry your pearls with a soft cloth and lay them flat on a towel to air dry. Avoid hanging them, as this can stretch the string and damage the pearls.
Keep in mind that pearls should never be cleaned in an ultrasonic cleaner, as this can damage the delicate surface of the pearls.