CARE GUIDE
NECKLACES & BRACELETS
Woven together with links as fine as thread, our signature fine chain is delicate in nature and requires care to avoid accidentally getting caught or stretching.
For 10-karat gold chains, avoid contact with Chlorine chemicals which can be found in swimming pools, hot tubs and household cleaning supplies. 10-karat gold jewellery contains other metals, such as copper and silver, which are highly susceptible to damage and erosion from Chlorine, and exposure can cause the jewellery to become weak, brittle and prone to breakage.
To clean your chain, follow this simple method at home. Firstly, combine a mild liquid soap with warm water and pour into a container. Soak your chain in the soap water for several minutes and then rub gently with a soft cloth or a very soft bristle toothbrush. Clean the chain down its entire length. Once you're satisfied, rinse the chain thoroughly with clean water and pat dry.
Alternatively, choose to make a small investment in an ultrasonic cleaner which works by emitting high frequency sound waves to move any debris or pop into one of our stores for a refresh.
If your soldered chain requires cleaning, please book an aftercare appointment here. Our solderer can safely remove this, before cleaning and resoldering to your wrist.
The most common reason that our necklaces and bracelets will break is a result of stretching. As our chains are made from solid gold and silver (malleable materials), they can stretch from continuous pulling (everyday wear) or being caught on something.
It’s worthwhile checking if your chain has stretched from time to time as a compromised chain can lead to breakage and potential loss!
Take your chain and measure its entire length (including jump rings and clasp) against a ruler. This measurement can then be compared to its original length (you can find this on your order confirmation). If your jump rings are no longer perfect circles, this is also a sure sign that the chain has experienced stress and stretched!
If you notice that your chain has stretched, lodge a repair request here as we are able to replace the chain in our workshop for a fraction of the cost of buying a new necklace or bracelet.
For 10-karat gold jewellery, avoid contact with Chlorine chemicals which can be found in swimming pools, hot tubs and household cleaning supplies. 10-karat gold jewellery contains other metals, such as copper and silver, which are highly susceptible to damage and erosion from Chlorine, and exposure can cause the jewellery to become weak, brittle and prone to breakage.
If your chain becomes knotted, untangle it as soon as you can to avoid stretching.
We recommend using two pins to untangle the knot on a flat, hard surface. Start in the middle of the knot to loosen the chain. Once your chain loosens and more gaps in the chain appear, gently manoeuvre your pin away from the tightest point of the knot to release the tangle. Avoid being too heavy-handed, you are performing a delicate procedure and don’t want to break your chain!
Our fine clasps can be susceptible to pressure and with wear, over time their mechanical springs can become compromised. A clasp replacement can be provided if necessary.
For 10-karat gold jewellery, avoid contact with Chlorine chemicals which can be found in swimming pools, hot tubs and household cleaning supplies. 10-karat gold jewellery contains other metals, such as copper and silver, which are highly susceptible to damage and erosion from Chlorine, and exposure can cause the jewellery to become weak, brittle and prone to breakage.
EARRINGS
Our butterfly earring backings have discs that oppose one another, acting as delicate springs that pinch the ear post. Our earring posts have various stoppings to ensure our earrings fit comfortably and securely.
The risk of losing an earring backing is likely when the tension of the discs is loosened which reduces the friction on the post. We recommend tightening your earring backings to increase the friction on the post. This can be done by making the curvature of the springs smaller at the point it has contact with the post. Pinch the point of contact of the butterfly backing to the post.
We recommend replacing an earring backing if it has lost its shape. You can purchase new earring backings here. Please keep in mind our earring backings vary in size depending on their earring style and material.
For 10-karat gold jewellery, avoid contact with Chlorine chemicals which can be found in swimming pools, hot tubs and household cleaning supplies. 10-karat gold jewellery contains other metals, such as copper and silver, which are highly susceptible to damage and erosion from Chlorine, and exposure can cause the jewellery to become weak, brittle and prone to breakage.
Our internally threaded earrings feature a thread attached to the front pendant which screws into the hollow end of the backing post. As the threaded closure may loosen due to everyday wear, we recommend occasionally checking your earrings and screw clockwise to tighten. Never press your earring together as the thread can dislodge from its channel and become unsecured.
To ensure longevity, handle your fine hoops carefully. To open your hoops, gently pull each side slightly apart. Once you’ve put your earring in, click the two ends back into place. Use a mirror or have someone help to make this process easier.
Do not open the sides of the hoop inwards past the closure. This movement will damage the delicate hinge. Only open your hoops as far as you need to and do not twist them sideways. By opening the hoops too wide you can loosen the hinge or cause it to break.
RINGS
Some of our fine rings are made from precious metal wire so extra care is recommended when being worn. Significant pressure can cause the wire to bend out of shape or break.
Feel free to visit any of our SARAH & SEBASTIAN stores for a complimentary clean of your engagement ring. At home, you can use warm soapy water, a soft toothbrush and a tissue to polish. For at home care, we recommend purchasing a polishing cloth or ultrasonic cleaning machine.
If your ring has a claw setting we recommend visiting one of our stores at least every six months or so to have your setting checked.
METALS
Our gold jewellery is made from 10K or 18K solid gold. 10k gold is made up from pure 24k gold and other alloys. We love it for its light golden colour and greater durability because of the alloys it is mixed with.
Please note, no matter the karat or type of precious metal, signs of wear will appear as you go about your daily life, inevitably collecting markings along the way.
To clean your gold jewellery, we recommend soaking in warm soapy water and buffing dry with a soft cloth or use a jewellery polishing cloth to help maintain shine. You can also use an ultrasonic machine for efficient, safe cleaning.
For 10-karat gold jewellery, avoid contact with Chlorine chemicals which can be found in swimming pools, hot tubs and household cleaning supplies. 10-karat gold jewellery contains other metals, such as copper and silver, which are highly susceptible to damage and erosion from Chlorine, and exposure can cause the jewellery to become weak, brittle and prone to breakage.
Sterling silver can oxidise with time, however properly maintained silver jewellery will improve with age and develop a unique patina. Wear your silver often (the oils in your skin actually prevent tarnishing) and care for it properly and it will reward you with a long life.
Please note, no matter the karat or type of precious metal, signs of wear will appear as you go about your daily life, inevitably collecting markings along the way.
To remove any tarnish the simple use of a special Silver Dip or rubbing with a Silver Cloth is all that is required to renew brilliance and shine.
Avoid contact with Chlorine chemicals which can be found in swimming pools, hot tubs and household cleaning supplies. Silver is highly susceptible to damage and erosion from Chlorine, and exposure can cause the jewellery to become weak, brittle and prone to breakage.
Our Vermeil pieces are made in sterling silver and plated in a thick even layer of 18K gold. Over time, vermeil jewellery will naturally fade due to the various levels of acid and salt in its wearer’s skin.
To extend the life of vermeil, avoid wearing when washing hands, showering, applying lotion, using harsh cleaning supplies or exercising.
Please note, no matter the karat or type of precious metal, signs of wear will appear as you go about your daily life, inevitably collecting markings along the way.
To clean, buff gently with a soft and dry 100% cotton cloth or a microfiber cloth. Do not use jewellery cleaner or a polishing cloth on vermeil jewellery as this will buff off the 18k gold layer.
If you notice your vermeil jewellery losing its colour, we offer a replating service at our workshop for a small fee. Lodge your replating request via our repair portal here.
10k gold is made from a combination of alloys which include silver and traces of copper. In some cases skin can react with these other alloys. We recommend following the below easy steps to help reduce your skin's reaction with the gold. Always take care to avoid moisturisers and makeup from remaining under your piece. If you are engaging in physical activities that can cause you to sweat, we recommend removing your jewellery beforehand.
GEMSTONES & DIAMONDS
Whilst diamonds are a durable gemstone which resist scratching (except by other diamonds) and maintain their brilliance over time, they aren’t indestructible.
It’s important to wear your diamond jewellery carefully as it can be chipped by strong force, become loose in a weakened setting, or be damaged by contact with other diamonds.
As with all SARAH & SEBASTIAN jewellery, store your diamond jewellery individually in their original packaging in a dry, cool place. You can clean your diamond jewellery by wiping it with a lint-free cloth or with warm water, mild soap and a soft toothbrush.
We encourage you to have your diamond jewellery periodically cleaned at our workshop so we can check the settings to maintain your piece’s beauty and integrity over time.
Very fine gold or silver prongs that hold gemstones are not invulnerable to damage through everyday wear. Knocking against hard surfaces such as the steel in door handles often goes unnoticed, but can cause these small prongs to move and gemstone loss can occur.
Our opals and coloured gemstones should be gently wiped with a damp soft cloth and mild detergent. Please avoid bleach, chemicals and cleaners as these can damage the stone and the use of an ultrasonic cleaner, as the intense vibrations may cause cracking.
Pearls are durable however can be vulnerable to many chemicals found in beauty products such as make-up and perfume.
We recommend avoiding direct contact of any chemicals and clean your pearls with a soft cloth, moistened with water.
Whilst emeralds are considered rather durable, they can be brittle due to their natural inclusions and are susceptible to chipping, so they require more care than other coloured gemstones. We recommend removing them for bathing, swimming or rigorous activities to maintain their glow and lustre.
To clean your emeralds, gently wipe them with a soft cloth and mild soapy water. Please avoid bleach, chemicals or other harsh cleaners as these can damage the stone. Additionally, avoid the use of an ultrasonic cleaner as the intense vibrations may cause cracking.
LEATHER BRACELETS
100% calf leather including leather lining.
Being a natural product each leather piece will have small variations
and a tolerance of up to 3mm in length. Our LEATHER BRACELETS
will acquire a patina over time darkening with use, this is a natural
characteristic of leather.
Clasp/Hardware on all LEATHER BRACELETS is vermeil (silver plated with 18k yellow gold) only.
Each piece is carefully crafted from soft Italian leather, sourced fromtanneries that are certified members of the Leather Working Group(LWG), a global organisation that evaluates the environmental compliance and performance of the leather industry.
As a not for profit LWG’s remit includes responsible leather production, sourcing, traceability and environmental best practices in the leather industry. As a result, our leathers are entirely vegetable-tanned and no heavy metals are used in the production.
Our LEATHER BRACELETS are not designed to be worn in water and should be protected from wet weather where possible. We do not recommend wearing it in the shower, pool, sauna or sea.
Avoid contact with oils, perfumes, creams or cosmetics.
Avoid exposing the leather to direct sunlight for extended periods.
After each wear, gently wipe with a dry, soft cloth to remove any dirt.
We recommend removing your leather bracelet before participating in any physical activity or going to sleep.
Apply a leather conditioner periodically to maintain its softness.
REPAIR & REFURBISHMENT
We strive to ensure a closed cycle production so our workshop operates to repair and refurbish all SARAH & SEBASTIAN products purchased directly online or in-store.
Please visit our returns portal or one of our retail stores to have your piece repaired or refurbished.
Every SARAH & SEBASTIAN piece comes with a limited warranty in addition to your rights under Australian Consumer Law, covering all manufacturing faults.
Please note that your jewellery can also be damaged by wear and tear (especially if the above care instructions are not adhered to). Damage caused by wear and tear is not covered under warranty and a repair fee will be incurred if your piece is deemed that this is the case.
Learn about your full warranty and rights under Australian Consumer Law here.