How to Clean Memorial Jewellery Safely

Memorial jewellery often contains irreplaceable ashes, hair, fur, photographs or dried flowers. Cleaning it gently helps protect both the metal and the personalised centre.

This guide covers Featherlings sterling silver and resin memorial jewellery. If your piece contains a different material, follow the care instructions supplied by its maker.

How to clean memorial jewellery

1. Remove the jewellery and inspect it for loose stones, damaged settings or cracks.
2. Wipe it gently with a clean, soft, lint-free cloth.
3. For the sterling silver areas, use a silver polishing cloth with light pressure.
4. Keep polishing products away from resin, photographs and other personalised centres.
5. Allow the piece to dry completely before storing it.

What to avoid

• Do not soak memorial jewellery.
• Avoid abrasive cleaners, toothpaste, bleach and household chemicals.
• Do not use ultrasonic or steam cleaners unless the maker has confirmed they are safe for that exact piece.
• Remove jewellery before swimming, showering, exercising or cleaning.
• Apply perfume, hairspray, lotion and cosmetics first, allow them to dry, then put the jewellery on.

How to store personalised jewellery

Store each piece separately in a dry jewellery box or soft pouch. Keeping chains fastened can help prevent tangles, while separating items reduces scratches.

Sterling silver naturally tarnishes when exposed to air and moisture. Tarnish does not mean the silver is poor quality and can usually be reduced with careful polishing.

When not to clean it yourself

Stop wearing the jewellery and ask for advice if you notice a loose setting, lifting resin, a damaged clasp or a crack. Cleaning a damaged piece can make the problem worse.

If you are unsure how to care for a Featherlings piece, contact me with a clear photograph before using a cleaning product.