Jewellery Materials & Care: Keep Gold-Plated, Steel & Stone Jewellery Looking New

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Looking after your jewellery is simple once you know what it's made of. This guide explains Etchcraft's materials, how to clean and store your pieces, how to keep plating from fading, what the warranty covers, and how care differs between gold-plated, real gold, steel, and stone jewellery.

What materials is Etchcraft jewellery made from?

Etchcraft's jewellery is primarily made from surgical-grade 316L stainless steel, finished with 22-carat gold plating or silver plating. The brand also offers solid, BIS-hallmarked 24K real gold and natural semi-precious stones. The 316L steel base is rust-proof and durable, which is why it holds plating well and suits daily wear. See the jewellery range.

Is Etchcraft jewellery hypoallergenic and safe for sensitive skin?

Yes. Etchcraft's pieces are made from hypoallergenic, non-toxic 316L stainless steel — the same grade used in medical tools — which makes them friendly to most sensitive skin. If you have a known metal allergy, it's still wise to check the specific piece's materials before wearing it for long periods.

Does the jewellery rust or turn skin green?

No. Because Etchcraft uses rust-proof 316L stainless steel, the jewellery resists the rusting and skin discolouration that cheaper base-metal jewellery can cause. Keeping it dry and clean keeps it performing at its best.

How do I clean my jewellery?

Wipe your jewellery gently with a soft, dry or slightly damp cloth, and avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, and ultrasonic machines on plated pieces. A quick wipe after wearing removes the sweat and oils that dull the finish over time.

How do I stop gold-plated jewellery from fading?

To keep gold-plated jewellery from fading, keep it away from water, perfume, sweat, and friction, and store it dry when it's not being worn. Etchcraft's plating is durable 22-carat over 316L steel, and every plated piece is backed by a no-questions-asked 6-month anti-fading replacement warranty, so you're covered if it fades within that time. See warranty details.

Can I wear my jewellery in water, the shower, or while swimming?

Etchcraft's jewellery can withstand brief contact with water, but it's best to remove plated and stone pieces before showering, swimming, or washing up, since prolonged water, chlorine, soap, and sanitiser wear the finish fastest. A good rule of thumb is to care for it like you would a watch.

How should I store my jewellery?

Store your jewellery in a dry place, ideally in the box it came in or a soft pouch, and keep pieces separate so they don't scratch each other. Avoid leaving it in a humid bathroom, since moisture is what dulls plating over time.

What does the warranty cover and how do I claim it?

Etchcraft offers a no-questions-asked 6-month anti-fading replacement warranty on its plated jewellery. If a piece fades within that period, contact the team with your order details to arrange a replacement. Check the FAQs.

How long does the jewellery last?

With basic care, Etchcraft's plated jewellery lasts for years, because the 316L steel base and 22-carat plating are built for durability and daily wear. Real gold and stainless steel pieces last even longer, since they don't rely on a plated surface.

How do I care for stone and beaded bracelets?

Care for stone and beaded bracelets gently: keep them away from water, oils, and perfume, wipe the stones with a soft dry cloth, and store them flat so the elastic or string isn't stretched. Natural stones are hand-strung, so avoid tugging or over-stretching the bracelet.

Does the engraving wear off over time?

No. The engraving on Etchcraft pieces is cut into the metal itself rather than printed on top, so it doesn't rub off with normal wear. The plating over it can wear with time, but the engraved mark stays.

Is the care different for gold-plated versus real gold?

Yes. Real gold needs the least care because it's solid throughout — it won't fade and only needs occasional cleaning. Gold-plated jewellery needs a little more attention, since the gold is a surface layer, so keeping it away from water and chemicals makes the plating last much longer.

Is Etchcraft jewellery waterproof?

Etchcraft's jewellery is water-resistant to brief contact rather than fully waterproof — a splash or quick hand-wash is fine, but prolonged soaking, swimming, or showering will shorten the life of the finish. For the longest life, take it off before extended water exposure.

Care made simple: wipe after wear, keep it dry, store it in its box. Browse all jewellery or message us on WhatsApp if you have a care question about a specific piece.