Medallion Care
We are often asked: How long do our medallions last? Can you shower with them? Do they tarnish? The answer lies in proper care.
We take pride in crafting medallions that have maintained their beauty and durability for over forty years. Last summer, I repurposed an old display case, and the medallions inside were over twenty years old, having been handled by thousands of people, yet still in remarkable condition. With proper care, yours can last even longer.
No Coatings
Unlike many jewelry items on the market, our metals are not coated with plastic or resin. This ensures a natural wearing process that enhances the authenticity and longevity of your medallion. Coated metals can sometimes rub off on the skin and wear unnaturally over time, so we craft our medallions without coatings.
Exposure to Water
My son wears medallions while surfing and doing other activities. After a beach trip, I did a media post showing how his medallion had developed a slight natural patina.
- Bronze & Silver Medallions:
Showering or swimming with these may cause them to discolor or develop a patina over time. Many customers love this organic look, but if you prefer a polished appearance, follow the cleaning steps below.
Cleaning Your Medallion
- Polishing Cloth:
Use a polishing cloth to restore shine. We prefer the Sunshine brand.
- Deeper Cleaning:
Silver or brass polish works well, but it removes all oxidation, which may affect the contrast of the designs. I have included a photo of the difference. I’ve also included my polishing chemical, but I know many people prefer Brasso for Bronze.
Antiqued Medallions
If your medallion has an antiqued finish, we recommend removing it before swimming or showering to maintain its aged appearance. A cloth is best for cleaning these, as it lets you control where the darkened finish remains. I have included a photo of a polishing cloth and silver cleaner.
Vermeil Medallions
These medallions are 99% silver and have been gold-plated. We recommend wearing and enjoying your medallion, but please avoid wearing it to sleep, in the shower, or at the gym. The plating lasts for a long time but will eventually wear off. We can replate your piece if needed; please email us for a quote.
24kt Gold Medallions
For these medallions, we recommend avoiding:
- Sleeping in them
- Wearing them to the gym
- Wearing them on top of jackets or button-downs
24kt gold is a relatively soft metal that can scratch if it comes into contact with other objects, such as zippers or rough surfaces. Proper care ensures longevity and keeps your medallion looking its best.
With the proper care, your medallion can last a lifetime, developing a character that tells its own story over the years.