How to Care for Beaded Jewelry: Cleaning, Storage & Maintenance Tips

Unlike metal jewelry, beaded bracelets and necklaces are made of natural materials — genuine stones, elastic cord, waxed cotton, and silver accents. Each of these materials behaves differently and requires specific care.

With proper care, your beaded jewelry can last for years. Without it, elastic can stretch, stones can crack, and silver can tarnish. Here's how to keep every piece looking its best.

Last on, first off. Put your jewelry on after applying lotion, perfume, hairspray, and makeup. Take it off before bed.

Avoid water. Remove beaded bracelets before showering, swimming, or washing dishes. Water weakens elastic cord and can damage porous stones.

Avoid chemicals. Household cleaners, chlorine, and even hand sanitizer can damage stones and cord.

Store separately. Keep beaded jewelry in a soft pouch or separate compartment to prevent scratching.

Don't stretch elastic. Roll beaded bracelets on and off your hand — don't pull or stretch the cord.

For most natural stone beads (amethyst, rose quartz, agate, etc.):

Wipe with a soft, dry cloth after each wear to remove oils and sweat.

For deeper cleaning, slightly dampen a soft cloth with plain water and wipe gently. Dry immediately with a clean cloth.

Never soak beaded jewelry — water can weaken the elastic cord and seep into porous stones.

Never use ultrasonic cleaners — the vibrations can crack beads and break the cord.

Turquoise: The most sensitive stone. Avoid ALL water, oils, and chemicals. Turquoise is porous and can change color if it absorbs liquids. Wipe with a dry cloth only.

Amethyst & Rose Quartz: Avoid prolonged sunlight — these stones can fade. Store in a dark pouch.

Obsidian: Fairly durable, but can scratch. Store away from harder stones.

Jade: Wipe with a soft cloth. Some people "condition" jade by rubbing it with their fingers — the natural oils are believed to improve its luster over time.

The Miao silver accents on our bracelets will naturally develop a patina (darkening) over time. This is normal and many people find it beautiful.

To restore shine: Rub gently with a silver polishing cloth.

To slow tarnishing: Store in an airtight bag with the anti-tarnish strip included with your order.

Never use liquid silver dip on beaded jewelry — it will damage the cord and stones.

Even with perfect care, elastic cord will eventually stretch or weaken. Signs it's time to restring:

- The bracelet feels loose or stretches easily

- The cord looks frayed or discolored

- Beads slide around loosely on the cord

- You see any gaps between beads

With daily wear, expect to restring every 1-2 years. Contact us if you need restrung service.