Care & Cleaning

	Earring Posts Sometimes the backs of ear posts are hard to slip on. If you experience this problem, bring your James Avery ear posts to one of our stores. We will be happy to adjust them so that the backs will slide on easily, but be tight enough to keep your earring secure. If you do lose an earring designed by James Avery, remember to simply take the remaining earring to one of our stores. If it is a piece in our current active line, you can purchase another pair for one half the cost of the new pair, plus the remaining earring. Diamond earrings are not covered under this policy. Ear Hooks The wire used on dangling earrings is lightweight in order for earrings to be put on and taken off easily. This causes the wire to be somewhat soft, so a gentle touch is necessary. To avoid stress and/or breakage, take care to bend the wire as little as possible. If one does break, it can be replaced for a small charge. Added Security for your Earrings For additional wearing security, we offer a free set of “twist on” hypoallergenic clear rubber backs with every pair of James Avery ear hooks. If you misplace your rubber earring backs or need additional sets please visit any James Avery store for complimentary replacements. Or you may order by telephone for the cost of shipping, or inclusion at no charge, in an order with other James Avery product. As another option, sterling silver and 14K gold earring backs for ear hooks and ear posts are also available and sold separately at all James Avery retail stores; or by telephone at 1-800-283-1770.
	Chains Chains should always be strong enough to support the charm or pendant worn on them. Otherwise, the chain will stretch and may eventually break. Sleeping with chains on can also cause them to weaken and break. If your chain gets caught on something, try not to jerk away. Untangle yourself gently and use a straight pin to remove knots in the chain. Regular, professional inspections help keep chains in top condition.
	Metal Combinations Jewelry designs that incorporate more than one metal require gentle cleaning with a soft cloth. Lightly buff them in order to preserve the oxidation that adds so much beauty to some of these pieces. Ultrasonic cleaners and chemical dips should be avoided. If you are reluctant to clean James Avery combination pieces, bring them to us. We can evaluate and professionally clean them for you.
	Oxidation Due to the natural variations of hand finished products, the degree of oxidation and resulting darkness will vary from piece to piece. Reasonable variations are to be expected and contribute to the uniqueness and hand finished quality of each piece of oxidized James Avery jewelry. Over time, normal wear or polishing can diminish or remove the level of oxidation. For a reasonable service charge, your valued piece may be re-oxidized to restore this finish. Ultrasonic cleaners and chemical dips should be avoided. If you are reluctant to clean James Avery oxidized pieces, bring them to us. We can evaluate and professionally clean them for you.
	Leather The natural beauty of leather is enhanced by subtle differences in color, grain and texture. Over time leather will age and darken giving it a rich patina. Our leather jewelry will provide you with extended wear and enjoyment if you follow a few basic care and cleaning suggestions. Care of Leather Jewelry To keep your leather jewelry looking its best, we recommend that you remove it when swimming, bathing, or in a pool or hot tub with chlorinated water; and when using any harsh chemicals, lotions or perfumes. Remove when engaged in strenuous activities as leather may absorb perspiration. Avoid contact with liquids, chemical dips, or aerosols which could cause discoloration or damage to leather. Store your leather jewelry separately in our soft flannel bags for added protection. As leather is worn it has a natural tendency to give, and will stretch, especially if exposed to moisture. Should your leather jewelry need adjustment, visit one of our retail stores or call us at 1-800-283-1770. We will advise you of any applicable Product Care fee. Replacement leather cords are also available. Ask one of our sales associates about our selection of leather cord styles, colors, and pricing. Cleaning of Leather Jewelry There are several top quality leather cleaning products available in the marketplace that will help to keep your leather in prime condition. A pendant or charm that is attached to a leather cord may be cleaned using a James Avery polishing cloth, or you may bring it to one of our retail stores for a complimentary cleaning. Inspections If you have a concern about your James Avery jewelry or would simply like to have it inspected, we will be happy to provide this service free of charge. Regular inspections protect you from the loss of your jewelry due to loose mountings, damaged stones, weakened clasps, or other problems. James Avery Workmanship We are very proud of the high standard of workmanship we uphold in the creation of our jewelry. From the very beginning, James Avery has believed in integrity and good taste in all matters. Our jewelry must be as pleasant to wear as it is to see. Our designers create jewelry that is functional as well as expressive, and our crafts people work with dedication and skill to ensure each design is as it should be, from concept to completion. Please remember that our guarantee does not cover work performed by companies or jewelers other than James Avery. We offer minor alterations on most of our items, sizing, and refurbishing at a reasonable fee. If you have any problems or questions concerning James Avery jewelry or are in need of product care services, please allow us to help you. Frequently Asked Questions How should I properly store my jewelry? To minimize the chance of scratches, separate your jewelry into a compartmentalized box, and store it in one of our soft flannel pouches. Why does my jewelry sometimes leave a black residue on my clothing or skin? Certain types of cosmetics contain chemicals that can abrade your jewelry, causing a sort of metallic dust. This metallic dust often appears black and can cause smudges on your skin or clothing. To avoid this problem, put on your jewelry after applying your cosmetics. Black smudges may also be caused by corrosion due to perspiration, exposure to salts and exposure to hydrogen sulfide gas (present in polluted air, some foodstuffs and industrial chemicals). To avoid these smudges, we recommend that you do not wear your jewelry while handling chemicals or products containing sulfur, and gently polish your jewelry often to remove tarnish. Why do I occasionally have skin irritation when wearing my ring? Some people occasionally experience a burning, itching and/or redness, usually on the skin beneath rings. This condition may be due to the build-up of soaps, detergents, waxes, and/or creams, which also cause a dulling film on your jewelry. To avoid skin irritation and to keep your jewelry bright, do not wear your rings when using cleaning products or lotions, and clean your rings frequently.