At Mintique of Cambridge, we believe in the beauty of authenticity and the allure of history. Our necklaces, crafted from genuine, circulated predecimal coins, are a testament to this belief. Each piece is a slice of history, a tangible piece of the past that you can carry with you, most of which are Sixpence Coins. But, like any precious item, these necklaces require care to maintain their unique charm. This guide will walk you through the process of caring for your post-1920 cupronickel necklace.
The Allure of Authenticity
Each necklace we create is made from genuine circulated coins, many of which are cupronickel. This means that no two pieces are exactly alike. Each coin carries its own story, its own journey through time. When you wear a Mintique of Cambridge necklace, you're not just wearing a piece of jewellery; you're wearing a piece of history handmade just for you.
Understanding Cupronickel
Cupronickel is a robust alloy of copper and nickel, often strengthened with elements like iron and manganese. Its durability and resistance to corrosion make it a popular choice for coinage. However, like any metal, it can tarnish over time, and the copper content can sometimes cause a green tinge to appear.
Caring for Your Necklace: Prevention is Key
Just as you would care for a fine leather shoe or a delicate silk shirt, your cupronickel necklace requires attention to maintain its lustre. Here are some preventive measures you can take:
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Avoid Moisture: Keep your necklace away from water. Remove it before showering, swimming, or exercising to prevent the copper in the cupronickel from oxidising.
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Regular Cleaning: Just as you would regularly wash a favourite shirt, your necklace needs regular cleaning. A gentle rub with a microfiber cloth can help maintain its shine and prevent discolouration.
- Proper Storage: When not wearing your necklace, store it in a cool, dry place. A jewellery box lined with soft fabric is ideal. This will protect it from moisture and prevent scratches. Your necklace will arrive in it's own Mintique of Cambridge branded jewellery box. You can also add a mini pouch and cloth to your order so that you have somewhere safe to store your necklace when on holiday or at the gym for example.
Dealing with Tarnish and Discolouration
As with all jewellery, there is a little maintenance required. Despite your best efforts, your necklace may still tarnish or develop a green tinge. Don't worry, this is just copper oxide, and it can be easily removed:
- Apply lemon juice or white vinegar to the coins. You can rub it on or soak the coins in it.
- Leave the juice or vinegar on the coins for a few minutes, then sprinkle some salt over them.
- Rub the salt in with your fingers or a cloth.
- Rinse the necklace under water. This should remove the green tinge and restore the shine of the coins.
Polishing Your Piece of History
For an extra shine, consider using a metal polish. After months of testing multiple products we settled on Autosol Metal Polish. It's easy to use and a small amount can work wonders. Just apply a tiny bit to a cloth and gently rub it on your necklace. Then, rinse it off and pat dry. Your necklace will look as good as new!
Conclusion
Your Mintique of Cambridge necklace is more than just a piece of jewellery. It's a piece of history, a unique artifact that tells a story. With the right care, you can preserve that story for years to come. So, treat your necklace with the care it deserves, and it will continue to shine with the allure of the past!
Have a look at the necklace collections here.