Silver care

All pieces by Brigitte Engel are made in sterling silver 925: 92.5% pure silver alloyed with copper for strength. It is the reference standard for silver jewellery.

Over time, silver naturally oxidises when exposed to air and humidity. This is not a defect; it is a chemical property of the metal. Many of our pieces feature an intentional oxidised patina that accentuates the texture and depth of the sculpture. This patina will evolve naturally with wear.

What to avoid:

• Perfumes, hairspray, lotions: apply before putting on your jewellery
• Chlorinated water (swimming pools, Jacuzzis)
• Seawater and sand
• Household cleaning products and bleach
• Sport and excessive perspiration: remove jewellery before exercise

Good habits:

• Put your jewellery on last when getting dressed
• Take it off first when undressing
• Wipe with a soft, dry cloth after wearing

For a light clean at home, use a soft lint-free cloth. Polish with small strokes, following the direction of the surface finish.

For a deeper clean: lukewarm water, a drop of mild soap (Marseille soap or baby shampoo), a soft toothbrush for crevices, rinse thoroughly, dry immediately with a soft cloth. Never leave silver to air-dry (water marks form).

Avoid silver dips and electrolytic cleaning baths: they strip the intentional oxidised patina from our pieces and dull the contrast of the finish.

• Store each piece individually, so that it is not scratched by the others
• Keep away from direct sunlight and humidity
• Do not store silver touching other metals (it accelerates oxidation)
• A piece of chalk or a silica sachet in your jewellery box absorbs moisture
• For long-term storage, slip the piece into an airtight bag: sheltered from the air, silver oxidises far more slowly

If your piece has lost its lustre or you wish to refresh the finish, send it back to the studio. We offer a professional re-polishing service: the piece is cleaned in an ultrasonic bath, hand-polished and patinated to restore its original finish.

This service is invoiced at a fixed rate depending on the piece (contact us for a quote). Turnaround: 1 to 2 weeks.