Cleaning handmade jewelry varies depending on the artisan creating it and the materials and finishes used. Many of my handcrafted designs are oxidized and incorporates many types of stones and pearls. The oxidation process is used to show the detail in my textures, whether it is a branch, stone surface or any other texture. The sterling silver is oxidized completely black then polished by hand, leaving the black oxidization to recessed areas. To maintain this finish a silver polishing cloth can be used. Silver dip of these pieces are not recommended as this will remove the blackened texture. To preserve the finish of my pieces when not being worn, I recommended keeping then is an airtight zip-lock style plastic baggie. Even though it is not the most glamorous way to store your jewelry, it is the best way to preserve it from tarnishing, since being exposed to oxygen accelerates the tarnishing of sterling silver.