How to Clean Different Types of Jewelry

The jewelry you wear, regardless if it's a piece you picked out for yourself as a special treat, or it was a gift from someone dear to you, often defines how you feel about yourself, reflecting your sense of style and mood back to the broader world. When sterling silver, brass, bronze or copper rings, pendants and necklaces become tarnished (thanks to oxidization), losing their sparkle, you might — figuratively speaking, of course — temporarily lose a bit of your sparkle as well.

Thankfully, if you want to know how to clean silver jewelry, or clean tarnished jewelry (brass, bronze, copper) at home, the steps involved are relatively simple to follow. As we look at different types of metal, you'll notice a consistent theme behind the various cleaning methods, as well as a similarity among the items — like white vinegar, lemon juice, a soft cloth, baking soda, plus a few other ingredients — you’ll need to gather to restore the glistening shine to your beloved bodily adornments.How to Clean Sterling Silver

When confronted with a piece of tarnished silver jewelry, your best bet is to follow a few easy steps and learn how to clean jewelry with baking soda. You’ll need baking soda, obviously, aluminum foil, and in some tougher cases, white vinegar to boot.

1. Line the bottom of a small ceramic dish or bowl with aluminum foil.
2. Prep a solution of baking soda and water, or for more challenging cases baking soda and white vinegar. About 1/2 cup of hot water or white vinegar to 2 tbsp. of baking soda should do the trick.
3. Set your sterling silver jewelry inside the bowl lined with aluminum foil, making sure as much of the silver as possible is in contact with the foil. Pour the solution over the jewelry and soak for several hours.
4. After soaking your silver, rinse it under cold water, then gently dry it with a soft cloth. And voilà, your cherished sterling silver jewelry should now be tarnish-free.

How to Clean Brass and Bronze Jewelry

Does brass tarnish? Sadly, for owners of brass or bronze jewelry, it does. Bronze and brass are both alloys (bronze is made up of copper and tin, while brass is composed of copper and zinc). When these alloys come into contact with oxygen, oxidation occurs, creating a greenish patina layer, similar in color to the Statue of Liberty, which is actually oxidized brown copper plating that turned green after years of exposure to the open air.

Don’t give up hope if your favorite brass bracelet or bronze chains have gone a little “green.” If you’d like to know how to clean bronze jewelry, or brass jewelry at home, follow the helpful instructions below.

1. Plop a tablespoon of baking soda into a small bowl, then gently pour lemon juice over the baking soda until you’ve created a pliable paste (stir to test).
2. Take a soft cloth (nothing abrasive) or an old toothbrush and apply, then rub the paste onto your tarnished jewelry.
3. After carefully polishing your brass or bronze items with your lemon and baking soda paste, rinse them under a stream of cold water, then buff and dry your jewelry with a soft cloth.

How to Clean Copper Jewelry

Want to know how to clean copper jewelry? The steps involved are similar to cleaning silver, brass, and bronze — but with a salty twist. With copper, simply soak your jewelry in a bowl, immersed in a solution of vinegar and salt. You can also make a thicker paste with salt and vinegar (reminds us of our favorite potato chips) to rub stubborn tarnish stains away. As always, rinse your copper jewelry under cold water, then dry with a soft cloth.

How to Measure Ring Size for a Perfect Fit

Fingers, as you know, come in a variety of different sizes. While this endearing feature is what makes us all so wonderfully unique, from our hands (literally) down to our feet, it can cause a bit of consternation for the uninitiated when measuring ring sizes at home. But fret not, because the designers and jewelers at Waxing Poetic know a thing or two about ring sizing for women, and how to measure ring size for men as well.

How to Measure Ring Size

If you want to measure ring size, most likely for a gift or when ordering online (if only for yourself, you can have your measurements taken by professionals at a jewelry store), you’ll come across several methods, that when performed correctly, should yield accurate results.

You want a snug fitting ring, that’s easy to slip on and off, but not so loose your precious ring is in danger of arbitrarily falling off — yet not so tight it will cause you discomfort or pain.

Before measuring, make sure you know what ring sizes you’re working with. In the United Stated, rings sizes range from around 3.5 (14.4 mm) to 13.5 (22.8 mm). You can find and download conversion charts online that match different international measurements (mm) with international ring-size standards. For US sizes, refer to the chart below:

Measurements (mm)	US Ring Sizes
14.4 mm	3½
14.8 mm	4
15.2 mm	4½
15.6 mm	5
16.0 mm	5½
16.5 mm	6
16.9 mm	6½
17.3 mm	7
17.7 mm	7½
18.2 mm	8
18.6 mm	8½
19.0 mm	9
19.4 mm	9½
19.8 mm	10
20.2 mm	10½
20.6 mm	11
21.0 mm	11½
21.4 mm	12
21.8 mm	12½
22.2 mm	13
22.6 mm	13½

Ring Sizing with Floss or String

Almost everyone has some string or a box of dental floss lying around the house. One of the simplest methods to employ when measuring ring size is to cut, then wrap a piece of string or floss around the base of your finger, just below the knuckle. Mark the point where one end of the string meets or overlaps the other end with a pen.

Don’t pull the floss or string too tight, which can distort your measurements. Measure several times to make sure you're getting an accurate reading. Once you have a piece of marked string or floss, measure it against a millimeter ruler, then compare it to a ring-sizing chart (like the one above) to gauge your ring size.

Ring Sizing with a Tape Measure or a Ring-Sizing Tool

If string, floss and an old-fashioned ruler don’t appeal, you can always get your hands on a ring-sizing tool. A jeweler will sell you one, and in many cases, give you one for free (they’re not expensive). You can order plastic ring sizers online, some designed for women, some for women and men. The latter is perfect if you’re worried about how to measure ring size — men being the "owners" of the fingers you’re planning to size up.

If you want to know how to measure ring size with a tape measure, follow the basic steps we've already laid out. But use a cloth tape measure instead of string or floss to gauge the circumference of your finger before comparing your marked tape measurements to the appropriate sizing chart.

The Various Lengths of Necklaces and How to Wear Them

Necklaces comes in all shapes and sizes, and finding the right one to complement your style and wardrobe is important. When ordering a necklace online, it should come with the chain length, but if you aren’t sure what this means, then it’s just another number. Here are some ways to figure out necklace length and find the right fit.

Different Types of Necklace Lengths

In general, there are six different necklace lengths. These include:

• Choker
• Collar
• Princess
• Matinee
• Opera
• Rope or Lariat

Each of them comes in a different length, and determining which option is right for your will depend on the look you are trying to create. Let’s get into a little more detail about each type.

Choker

On average, a choker necklace will be 14 inches in length. They are designed to wrap closely around your neck and are often worn with a high-necked top or dress. However, they can be worn with any outfit if you are looking to make a fun, bold statement.

CollarA collar necklace sits right at the base of your neck and is a good option when accessorizing tops or dresses with a high neckline. These necklaces are 16 inches in length and aren’t as tight as a choker. These are usually worn to make a statement, so finding one that is colorful and/or large is a good decision.

Princess

This is the most common necklace length and falls just below your throat at the collarbone. In general, this necklace is 18 inches in length and will work for just about any outfit you pair this type of necklace with. Whether you are wearing a fine chain or a bold piece, the princess length is ideal for everyday wear.

Matinee

The length of this necklace falls between 20 and 22 inches, and it will sit right above your bust line. This necklace style is often worn with plunging necklines or for individuals who feel like 18 inches of necklace feels too short.

There is also a 24-inch matinee necklace that you can add to your wardrobe. You’ll need to consider that it is meant to lay on top of your clothing and is often worn to make a statement. These necklaces will fall just below the center of your bust. This matinee necklace is a great addition to business or casual wear, and they often come in bold colors or with multiple strands so that they stand out.

Opera

Opera necklaces have a tendency to be more formal than shorter necklaces. They hang below the bust and can be worn with high necklines or eveningwear. They average 30 inches in length.Rope or Lariat

This necklace hangs well below your bust and may reach all the way to your navel. In general, they are 36 inches in length and add something extra to business or eveningwear. Although, they can add some elegance and sophistication to casual wear as well. It’s advised that you don’t wear a rope necklace with a plunging neckline, as this won’t pair well with the necklace’s length.

Now that you have a better idea of the types and lengths of necklaces that exist, you can find the pieces that will express your individual style and add something extra to any outfit you put on.

How to Store Jewelry to Keep it from Getting Damaged

After investing the time, effort and money to find the jewelry that you love, it can be incredibly frustrating to place it in a jewelry box and have it get damaged or tarnished. If you’re looking for some tips on how to keep your necklaces, rings and bracelets looking good, check out the suggestions listed below.

Everything in Its Own Place

One of the best ways to keep your jewelry from getting damaged when placed in a jewelry box is to ensure that each piece has its own place. It’s possible to find jewelry boxes with various compartments and sections. Placing your rings in the slots specifically designated for them will keep them from tangling with necklace chains or getting lost among bracelets. Placing earrings in their own section will ensure that you always know where each pair is.

In addition to putting your jewelry in its designated area, you should also separate your pieces into the types of metal they are made from. Keep all of your gold items together and separate your silver items from your fine jewelry and your costume jewelry. If the various metals touch, this can cause an interaction that can lead to tarnishing. To keep your jewelry looking fantastic and tarnish-free, give each type their own space and compartment in your jewelry box.

Keep it Clean and Dry

Another way to prevent your rings and other jewelry from becoming damaged when stored in a jewelry box is to make sure it’s clean and dry before you put it away. Moisture tarnishes and degrades all metal quickly. Thus, if your jewelry got wet because you were out in the rain or you just washed your hands or showered, make sure to dry it thoroughly before you put it away. Use a lint-free cloth to help with this endeavor.

Dirt and other grime can also lead to your jewelry becoming tarnished, so if your pieces have been exposed to any kind of debris, make sure to clean and dry them before putting them away. One of the easiest ways to clean your jewelry is to mix a few drops of mild dish detergent into lukewarm water.

You’ll then soak your pieces for a few moments, using a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove any stuck-on dirt and debris. Make sure to dry your jewelry with a lint-free cloth before putting it away.



Store Your Favorite Pieces Where they Can be Seen

If you have necklaces or other pieces of jewelry that you adore and wear on a frequent basis, you might consider storing these in an area where they can be seen and are easy to grab. You have the option of getting hooks or a wall jewelry organizer that will keep your favorite items organized, visible and easy to access.

You might also consider placing a dish or small jewelry box on your nightstand for earrings or rings that you forgot to take off before heading to bed. You’ll still be able to find them quickly and easily when you’re ready to wear them again, but they’ll also be contained and organized.

It can be challenging finding jewelry that expresses your style and makes you feel really good. Thus, when you do find the pieces that you adore, you’ll want to take care of them so that they last for a long time. How you store them is important, and keeping them separated, clean and easy to access will help keep them from getting damaged or tarnished.

Everything You Need to Know About Signet Rings

Traditionally, a signet ring was a symbol of family heritage. Many of the first versions of this ring bore the family crest or coat of arms. The image was engraved into the ring in reverse so that it could be pressed into hot wax or soft clay and used to seal a document. The recipient of the document would know that it was authentic because of the symbol in the wax.

Signet rings go by many names, including “seal rings” because of their function to seal letters, as well as a “gentleman’s ring” because it was often worn by the male heirs in the family. In modern times, both men and women wear signet rings.

Modern Signet Rings

In the past, signet rings were only worn by those in the upper class, so they were often associated with elitism. Today, anyone can have a signet ring. Many people still decide to have their family crests engraved into the ring, but this isn’t the only option. It’s also possible to get your initials or any other picture you like included in the ring.

Currently, some rings are worn to symbolize membership in a club. The most common wearers of signet rings include Freemasons or military personnel, who wears rings that symbolize their rank or what branch of the military they are in. As these rings grow in popularity, people are wearing them every day with their outfits or using them as wedding rings. How to Recognize a Signet Ring

Despite the fact that signet rings can come in many shapes and sizes and include a crest, initials or other photo, there are some common traits that set these apart from other rings. More often than not, they have a flat bezel and a design is engraved in intaglio, which means that it is raised and can leave an impression if pressed into wax or other soft materials.

While these two traits have to be present to make the ring a signet ring, determining the design, size and shape will be up to your personal preference and style. Some of the most common shapes include the following:

• Oxford Oval – the most traditional and popular shape for signet rings
• Round – a more contemporary and modern option
• Marquise – gives the ring a more sophisticated and elegant shape
• Cushion – this is a square-shaped ring that was popular during the Victorian era

How to Wear a Signet Ring

Traditionally, signet rings were worn on the pinkie finger of a person’s non-dominant hand. This would make it easier to use it for its intended purpose, which was sealing a document. Today, many people still abide by this rule, but not everyone does.

There are no longer any hard and fast rules when it comes to wearing a signet ring, so you are allowed to wear it on the finger that feels most comfortable. As mentioned, some people where them as wedding rings, so they will be found on the ring finger of their left hand. Others wear them on their middle or first finger.

Signet rings are often worn to make a bold statement or show off heritage. They add something unique and special to your style, whether you wear them for special occasions or every day.

The Restorative Meanings Inherent to Quartz Jewelry

Different types of quartz, often used as gemstones in pendants or bracelets, carry with them a variety of weighty philosophical and therapeutic meanings. Quartz, while quite common and easily dug up in many locations around the planet, is nevertheless a mineral that has been cherished for thousands of years — including by the Egyptians, Greeks and Romans — for its wide range of healing properties. Once believed to be permanently frozen chunks of ice (which it isn’t), quartz still holds a special place in people's hearts today.

Here are some of the more metaphysical and spiritual meanings attributed to different types of quartz, and thus quartz jewelry, that you’ll likely run across, that still hold today.Amethyst Meaning

Amethyst, which is the birthstone for February, comes in a variety of purple hues, from indigo and dark violet to a lovely plum. Purple signifies purity and cleansing. A charm or strand necklace with amethyst protects the wearer from unhealthy emotions and bad vibes. (Nasty juju be gone!) In a world with plenty of less-than-noble actors messing with your life, jewelry made with amethyst can help alleviate feelings of anger, fear and stress. This mineral can also assist in building a positive barrier around you that will help keep the harmful, corrosive intentions or feelings of others (i.e., negative people you could do with less of) at bay.Rose Quartz Meaning

Rose Quartz, with its attractive pink color, has everything to do with the human heart. This soothing gemstone is said to nurture feelings of kindness, openness, and empathy toward human beings and other living creatures.rose quartz pendant or talisman will sweep away the destructive emotional cobwebs of anger and envy that linger or stick to the inside of the heart or mind, thus freeing up space for unconditional love and a greater appreciation for all of the natural beauty to be found in the world. Harmony and balance, in combination with the purest forms of love, stem from rose quartz. This means that anyone choosing to wear this pink gem as a piece of ornate jewelry is in possession of a soul ready for warm, fuzzy affection, and good feelings all around.Crystal Quartz Meaning

Ah, clear crystal quartz, the mother of all quartz gemstones. If you want a potent restorative stone, crystal quartz is the way to go. This complex silicate mineral, made up of silicon and oxygen, acts as an energy magnifier (especially when used in tandem with other curative crystals) that prepares the mind for more profound spiritual experiences. Clear quartz, also going by the name of “rock crystals,” is a versatile stone, linked intimately to a person’s raw intentions at their deepest levels.

To get the most out of a crystal quartz ring or birthstone charm (for people born in April), imbue your crystal with your sincerest intentions through focused meditation. Keep your crystal quartz near your body, preferably wearing it as jewelry, and revisit these positive intentions periodically throughout the day. In essence, let your crystal quartz guide you as you try to actualize those core desires defining your life now, and that you hope will structure your life goals in the months and years to come.

The Expressive Characteristics of Different Blue Stones

Mother Earth’s bounty of lovely blue stones is considerable, to say the least, but not inexhaustible. And while blue is the hue many jewelry wearers favor in their gemstones — whether garnishing a zodiac necklace, a set of zodiac rings or blue stones entwined within the design of a stellar piece of sterling silver jewelry — their popularity in no way diminishes their beauty or charm.

The expert jewelers at Waxing Poetic would like to acquaint you with some of the distinctive characteristics and meanings associated with a variety of different blue stones, thus helping you pick out the right stone(s) for yourself or those you esteem the most.

The Unique Meanings of Different Blue Stones

Each stone you come across has a story to tell. It could be a peculiar little rock you stumble upon in the desert, with millions if not billions of years of geological time behind its long journey. Or it might be the profound meanings the natural world (and humanity) has imbued in the sapphires set inside your favorite brass pendant…Aquamarine Meaning

Aquamarine, meaning “seawater” in Latin, is a semi-precious stone (but precious to all who wear it) that is the birthstone for March. When searching for its hidden meaning, rest assured, as this stone, with many pieces originating from Brazil, won’t disappoint. Aquamarine has the power to calm the soul while simultaneously disseminating positive energy out into the rest of the world. An aquamarine talisman is soothing, pure, and subtly potent — just like the seawater for which it's named. Labradorite Meaning

Labradorite is an extraordinary feldspar stone. This exquisite gem, which many believe aids in blocking out negativity while shepherding us through significant life changes (as we transform ourselves and the world around us), is the perfect representative of an agent of change. Iridescent labradorite often reflects an array of different colors, creating a "labradorescence" optical effect. These shifting shades are the basis for this stone's association with periods of significant transformation.

Blue Topaz Meaning

If born in November, you number among the fortunate who can count blue topaz as your personal birthstone. This precise gemstone, revered by the Egyptians and the Romans (and now the official gem of Texas), with its glacier blue hue, embodies feelings of friendship, love, and good fortune. Blue topaz is said to clear the mind and ease bodily stress, opening the way to honest communication, and higher positive emotions blossoming out of our connections to the people we care for the most in this life.

Sapphire Meaning

Sapphire and royalty — and even divinity — meld together in the most celestial of ways. This precious gemstone (the birthstone for September), second in hardness only to diamonds, has long represented wisdom and purity for those fortunate enough to be of royal birth, or who owe their privileged stations in life to the heavens above. Because of its association with devotion, blue sapphire set inside sterling silver rings signifies commitment and honesty, which amounts to a promise of fidelity to anyone who gifts or dons a piece of sapphire jewelry. Turquoise Meaning

Turquoise, the birthstone for December, has been a favorite mineral for art and jewelry craftspeople for millennia, dating back to ancient Egypt. For a clearer mind, and a boost in wisdom leading to a more refined kind of introspection, turquoise is the stone to select. Empathy and cheerfulness are also said to multiply when a piece of turquoise bronze or brass jewelry adorns your body. So go on, let a bit of turquoise (like a turquoise and sterling silver necklace) bring some positivity and much-needed serenity to your busy life.

How Instagram inspired an earring design

Introducing The Influencers: earrings as a wearable, shareable platform for your treasures

In the realm of social media, we are what we portray to others – sharing ourselves – who we are – with our family, friends and followers.  For all of its screen-overdosing issues, when we are in a good flow, our projected outward appearance, or persona, can empower inner world expression.  It is fairly poetic really – the arc and story of our lives playing out in the social arena in ways we have never seen before.

When I sat recently in a trend update meeting, the trend that caught my attention was “above the shoulder” accessorizing… namely, the uptick in hair and ear accessories in the market.  The reason for the surge?  Instagram. Selfies. Self-influence in social media. And of course most of this happens around the face. So … we were inspired, and had an idea for an earring.I thought: what can you say with an earring? And then: you can say whatever you want, as long as you have the way and the ingredients.  Enter, The Influencers.  A concept that can transform any jewelry elements, or other clip-able jewelry, objects and treasures you may have, into earrings.Personalization. Play. Creativity.  Giving new life to what you already own, and a canvas for new styles. Find The Influencers here: https://www.waxingpoetic.com/influencer-earringsThe whole game of accessorizing to me, is to make ourselves feel like we are wearing what we need – be it sparkle, totems, touchstones – so many little pieces that carry meaning, waiting to be curated and brought center stage and talked about and shared.

These earrings could have been called Tabula Rasa – “blank slate”- because having these feels like having a blank notebook or canvas to start working with (and equally as lovely on their own, which is the beginning of the story). But we chose the name Influencers to not only reflect the Insta-culture that inspired them, but also to remind us that we are all influencers in our own right and realms.

As Instagram, and other social media platforms like YouTube, Snapchat and Facebook encourage us to become more of ourselves with every visual we post, we hope these earrings provide a tangible, wearable platform for the same.

Use our hashtag #poeticinfluencer to join in the conversation and for a chance to be featured in our gallery.

Have fun, and use your influence well!

Xo Patti

See more Influencers in action in our new Fall/Winter 2019: Catalog:https://www.waxingpoetic.com/wp-digital-catalog And for more information:

https://www.waxingpoetic.com/press/

Summer Splendor

Wonderment, Wanderment, & Becoming Serendipitous

These early days of Summer are some of our favorites.There are reasons for this:

The light has grown -- in both general intensity and length of days (the Solstice being the most famous example of long-light-wonder -- and the official first day of Summer),

Things that had only begun to bloom in March and April are approaching full flower,

School is out (or almost out),

Any and all nature suddenly seems especially beckoning,

And an indisputable sense of something close to (if not actually) magic

hangs in the air

(like morning mist still might for those of us in coastal places)

(like the first few fireflies you or your children spy)

(like the last bursts of pollen that coat our windowsills or outdoor tables)

And suddenly (but a soft kind of suddenly, a gentle unmistakable OH, MY, YES suddenly)

we’re more than inclined to give in to wandering impulses,

Be they the daydreaming kind

or the moongazing kind

or the beachwalking kind

or the innerjourneying kind

Or any combination of the above kinds

Or more

Wherever we find ourselves. Even (espeically) nearby home.

The last two are important -- the ‘wherever we find ourselves’ and ‘nearby home’ parts,

because this swoonymagic week or so around the Solstice

is not limited to location or particularly tied to any one place or climate.

It’s for all of us, wherever we are, whoever we are, whomever we are with, and with whatever level of wonder each of us has on hand or is game to allow.

And so are the following words:

WONDERMENT is a word we know (and love), meaning (perhaps unsurprisingly) “a state of wonder,”

WANDERMENT is a word we recently (and delightedly) learned is *actually* a word, which means “the action or state of wandering,”

SERENDIPITOUS is a word we’ve long enjoyed but never until recently knew could also be used to describe a character trait, namely “having “the faculty of making happy & unexpected discoveries by accident.”

Why share these three and why now? Because:

1) we’re in that interpolary zone we described earlier

2) WONDERMENT, WANDERMENT, and becoming SERENDIPITOUS accurately relate to something that can (if we let it) happen to any of us: moments of mini-transcendence that might happen (or are already happening) very close to home...

Like this walk I took recently with Lu Where we decided to engage in local wanderment:Where we found evidence of others being or becoming serendipitous (fairy offerings)

Where there was tangible proof that more than one someone wanted to leave a reminder of joy --

whether it was for fairies, whether it was in gratitude of rain and blooms after so much drought,

whether it was a tiny altar or a place of prayer, whether it was the grounds for a picnic of sprites,

Whether it was the work of children or the gift of a sly gardener

What matters is that we let ourselves notice

(apparently we are all already serendipitious souls, we just have to accept it)