How to Care for Handmade Leather Jewellery

Handmade jewellery has become one of the biggest fashions statement and these items are popular gift as well. This is truly a unique gift to give to someone and somehow, this says a lot about the character of the person that it is given to. You will never go wrong by giving a piece made out of Lianne Landman collection. A variety of styles are available, each with their own flair and personality.

Owing handmade jewellery is quite different to as to precious stones or metals. If you want it to last for many years, you’ll need to look after it. Here is some tips when caring for leather:

Cleaning

When cleaning a leather jewellery piece, choose a cleanser that will help preserve the natural lubricating oils instead of removing them. Before applying anything to your jewellery, be certain to test it out for effect and possible colour distortion on an area that isn’t visible to the eye.

If no damage has been done clean your leather then, with a slightly dampened cloth, remove the cleaning product. Leather may be wetted occasionally but not too often as it may lead to water damage. Only use water when you need to

Conditioning

Only for occasional use. They contain fats and/or oils that help lubricate the leather and replenish the suppleness. Look for a product that will penetrate the strong fibres, but beware of any that include petroleum or mineral oils.  Petroleum by-products will damage your leather accessories over time.

Protection

Moisture barriers are extremely crucial in preventing rain or other liquid hazards from damaging leather. Stiffness and cracking will occur if leather isn’t protected beforehand. There is a drawback in protecting leather with a moisture barrier product. They tend to fill in the pores with a greasiness that makes cleaning, conditioning, and polishing difficult, but it’s a necessary process to ensure your leather jewellery isn’t destroyed. Periodically apply a moisture barrier and allow it time to penetrate and dry before wearing

Removing Mildew

To remove mildew, create a mixture of 1 cup rubbing alcohol (from the local chemist) per 1 cup of water. Wipe the mildew area with a cloth dipped in the diluted alcohol, then allow it to dry. If the mildew persists, use mild soap and water that contains a germicide, remove with a clean dampened cloth and allow to dry.

Storage

Storage is also important.  If you are not wearing you piece it is recommended that the item be placed back into the suede pouch that you received with your purchase.

Lianne Landman is a popular South African jewelry designer and she has an outstanding reputation for making high quality handcrafted jewelry for customers all over the world.