Care Guide
At LESS & MORE, we pride ourselves on using high-quality materials such as stainless steel, brass, and sterling silver for our jewellery. Here’s a closer look at each material and how to care for it:
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is an alloy of carbon and iron, enhanced with chromium and titanium to ensure durability and low maintenance. Our stainless steel jewelry is 100% waterproof, resistant to tarnishing, and hypoallergenic, making it a sustainable and long-lasting choice. Despite its durability, regular care will keep your pieces looking shiny and new for years to come.
Why should I get jewelry made out of stainless steel?
- Stainless steel jewelry won’t rust as long as the protective layer of chromium on it is maintained. It also doesn't oxidize like bronze or brass so it won’t change color over time.
- Stainless steel jewelry is resistant to scratches and damage. It also doesn't need to be polished or buffed as often as silver, gold, and platinum.
- Stainless steel jewelry is hypoallergenic, making it a safe choice for those with sensitive skin.
- Stainless steel jewelry is infinitely recyclable with an almost 100% recovery rate. If it comes in contact with other elements, it remains environmentally inert and neutral without absorbing compounds that could alter its composition.
- Stainless steel jewelry complements various outfits, from casual wear to formal attire, offering versatile styling options.
Stainless steel jewelry is 100% waterproof and untarnished. This durable, recyclable and hypoallergenic material is also a super sustainable choice. Even though stainless steel jewelry is quite durable, it is always good to take care of your jewelry if you want to keep it looking shiny and new for years to come.
How to take care of your stainless steel jewelry:
- Avoid direct contact with perfume, body lotions, hair sprays or other chemicals.
- Remove your jewelry before going to bed.
- Avoid direct sunlight, extreme heat, or cold, and humidity.
- Remove jewelry when bathing, showering or swimming.
- Remove jewelry when participating in physical activities, e.g. cleaning/gardening.
- Clean the jewelry after each use and occasionally wipe with a soft cloth.
- Store jewelry separately in an airtight jewelry box or bag.
Brass
Brass is a versatile alloy made primarily from copper and zinc, with varying proportions to achieve different qualities. Some pieces may have more copper, while others may contain more zinc.
Why should I get jewelry made out of brass?
- Brass has a natural gold-like appearance, especially after polishing, giving it a luxurious shine.
- Brass, like stainless steel, is very durable and rust-resistant, making it ideal for long-term use.
- Brass is very malleable and versatile. This means the jewelry made out of this material can be shaped in many different styles and designs.
- Brass is very low maintenance. You don’t need a special polisher or even a polisher to make it look clean and good.
Brass is used in jewelry not only for its affordability but for its malleability and yellow tinted color. If polished it can give a luxurious, gold-like appearance. However, any jewelry piece made out of brass can tarnish if not taken care of.
How to take care of your brass jewelry:
- Clean it regularly. Wipe it with a soft, clean cloth or soak it in water and mild soap to make it look shiny again!
- Avoid showering, swimming or working out with it on. Constant contact with the water can help tarnish it.
- Keep it in good storage. Avoid direct sunlight when stored but specially stay away from humidity.
Sterling Silver
Sterling silver is composed of 92.5% silver and 7.5% of another metal, usually copper, to enhance its strength and durability. Known for its high quality and longevity, sterling silver is a classic choice for jewelry. With proper care, it will maintain its brilliance and resist tarnishing.
Why should I get jewelry made out of sterling silver?
- Sterling silver is strong and durable, making it ideal for everyday wear without losing its shape or luster.
- It is generally hypoallergenic, making it a great option for those with sensitive skin or metal allergies.
- Sterling silver complements a wide range of styles and outfits, from casual to formal, making it a versatile addition to any jewelry collection.
- Compared to other precious metals like gold and platinum, sterling silver is more affordable while still offering a luxurious look
- Sterling silver is relatively easy to clean and maintain, with simple polishing often sufficient to keep it looking shiny and new.
It is important to note that silver is quite a soft material, which means that while durable, it does require a higher care than other materials like gold or platinum.
How to take care of your sterling silver jewelry:
- Clean your sterling silver jewelry with mild soap and warm water, then dry it with a soft, lint-free cloth to maintain its shine.
- Use a silver polishing cloth to remove tarnish and restore the jewelry's luster, avoiding paper towels or tissues that can scratch the surface.
- Store your sterling silver jewelry in a cool, dry place, preferably in airtight containers or zip-lock bags to minimize exposure to air and humidity.
- Keep your jewelry away from household chemicals, lotions, perfumes, and cosmetics, as these can cause tarnish and damage.
- Remove your jewelry before swimming, bathing, or engaging in activities that cause sweating to prevent tarnish and corrosion.
- Regularly wearing your sterling silver jewelry can help prevent tarnish, as the natural oils in your skin can protect the metal.