A question often asked is, “How can I best care for my diffuser necklace so that it lasts as long as possible?” We wanted to compile some information on the different materials used in our diffuser jewelry, as well as ways to care for the jewelry you choose to purchase. We hope that with this information you can make the best decision about what type of diffuser jewelry is right for you!
Alloy Metals and Stainless Steel Options
Our essential oil locket jewelry falls into two categories. Some of our lockets are made from alloy metals which are mixtures of elements such as iron, gold, copper, and zinc. These lockets are then plated, as noted in the product descriptions, to give them a finish that is silver, bronze, copper, antiqued, or gold in color. The shinier the plating, the more care it will require when using with essential oils.
We also have a line of diffuser jewelry that is made from 316L surgical grade stainless steel. 316L surgical stainless steel is also an alloy that contains 2-3% molybdenum so that it has more resistance to corrosion, rust and discoloring from oxidation. Due to the material, this type of essential oil jewelry requires the least amount of cleaning and care. Some of the chains on our plated lockets are also made from this material.
Hypoallergenic
You will often see 316L stainless steel marked as “hypoallergenic”. What exactly does that mean?
Hypoallergenic means “below normal” or “just a little” allergenic. If you are allergic to nickel, please note that just because jewelry can be labeled as hypoallergenic doesn’t mean that it does not contain any nickel. 316L stainless steel jewelry, though legally labeled “hypoallergenic” still contains 8-10.5% nickel, so it might not be a good choice if you have a nickel allergy.
How should I car
e for my plated jewelry?
With ANY type of metal jewelry (aside from gold and platinum), tarnish will occur over time. Exposure to moisture, air, oils (skin or otherwise), high temps and high humidity can speed up the process, which is actually a chemical reaction where sulfurs in the environment break down the topmost layer of the metal (oxidation). This is what may appear to discolor the metal, and what is known as tarnish.
Unfortunately, this can’t be prevented completely, but controlling the environment that you store your jewelry in will help slow down the process. We suggest keeping your jewelry in a cool, dry place (NOT the bathroom!) and preferably even in the plastic baggie that it came to you in. Not very stylish, but it will help it last longer!
Cleaning your plated jewelry needs to be done carefully, as the plated layer is thin. It is suggested that you wipe off your jewelry with a soft cloth after use, and try to avoid dropping the oils directly on the jewelry; instead, remove the leather pad to apply the oils, let them soak in for a minute, and then place the pad in your jewelry.
Every 1-2 weeks, you may also choose to clean any silver plated jewelry with a mild solution of dish soap and warm water to maintain the shine.
Are you ready to choose a unique piece of diffuser jewelry? Find many options at www.dropsofjoyjewelry.com, and get 10% off your first purchase by clicking here!