Jewelry Care

LilMcKH Jewelry is designed in the New Orleans studio of Lil McKinnon-Hicks and all work is fabricated by the designer. Each piece is carefully handmade with attention to detail. Properly maintained, your jewelry will improve with age and develop a rich patina. To keep your jewelry in excellent condition we recommend that you:

Do remove all jewelry prior to cleaning, swimming, gardening, heavy lifting and applying cosmetics. Chemicals in cleaning agents, cosmetics and swimming pools may damage metals, some stones, beading materials and patinas. Store your jewelry in a cool, dry place in your jewelry box or in a tarnish-preventive pouch. Exposure to air, humidity, moisture, light and pollutants will cause jewelry to tarnish. Store pieces individually. Precious metals such as sterling silver and 14K gold can scratch easily.

Do not use tarnish-removing dips or silver polishes on any items with soft stones or pearls. Keep in mind that these products will damage some stones and strip off the often-appealing dark patina on your sterling silver jewelry. Metals with shiny finishes should be cleaned with a polishing cloth or glove. Matte finishes may be cleaned with a soft toothbrush. Some plated pieces may require periodic replating, available through LilMcKH Jewelry for a nominal fee.

Pearls and many beaded pieces should not be submerged in soap and water, nor should they be cleaned with an ultrasonic cleaner. Avoid exposure to makeup, hair spray, body lotions or perfumes. Avoid sudden temperature changes. We suggest that necklaces and bracelets be stored flat, as hanging can stretch the thread. We also recommend having pearls restrung periodically to avoid breakage. Pearl re-knotting is available through LilMcKH Jewelry for a nominal fee.