Thank you for choosing Kunisle high-fired enamel jewelry. High-fired enamel is a delicate craft that requires gentle care. Proper maintenance will keep its colors and luster vibrant for years.
1. Physical Properties of Enamel & How Damage Occurs
Understanding enamel’s properties helps you protect it better:
- Hardness: Mohs hardness of approximately 5-6 (glass is ~5.5, copper is ~2.5-3). Harder than metal, but brittle.
- Toughness: Nearly zero. When struck, it will crack or chip rather than deform.
- Compressive Strength: Relatively high — resists damage under even pressure.
- Tensile/Flexural Strength: Very low — prone to cracking when bent or subjected to localized pressure.
- Thermal Stability: Withstands high temperatures, but sudden temperature changes (e.g., from extreme cold to sudden heat) may cause cracking.
- Chemical Stability: Resists acids, alkalis, and oxidation. However, prolonged exposure to strong acids or alkalis may still corrode the surface.
2. Common Causes of Enamel Damage
| Damage Type | Common Causes | Prevention |
|---|---|---|
| Cracks | Dropping, impact with hard objects, deformation of metal base | Avoid bumps when wearing. Store separately. |
| Chips | Pointed impact on edges, friction with hard objects | Avoid stacking with other jewelry. |
| Scratches | Rubbing against hard objects (diamonds, metal, ceramic) | Store separately. Avoid contact with high-hardness items. |
| Surface Corrosion | Prolonged exposure to strong acids or alkalis | Avoid contact with cleaners, perfume, cosmetics. |
| Discoloration / Loss of Luster | Oil buildup, lack of regular cleaning | Wipe regularly with a soft cloth. |
3. Daily Wear Recommendations by Risk Level
✅ Safe Scenarios (Can Wear)
- Daily office work, home activities, social gatherings
- Light household tasks (e.g., tidying desk, reading)
- Short outings (shopping, dining)
⚠️ Caution Scenarios (Recommend Removing)
- Exercise, gym, vigorous activities
- Lifting heavy objects, heavy housework
- Sleeping (may press against the piece during the night)
❌ Prohibited Scenarios (Must Remove)
- Bathing, swimming, hot springs, saunas
- Applying makeup, perfume, or skincare products
- Contact with cleaners, disinfectants, dish soap
- Gardening, moving objects, any activity with risk of impact
4. Cleaning Tools & Methods (Detailed)
Recommended Tools
| Tool | Best For | How to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Microfiber cloth | Daily wiping | Gently wipe surface to remove fingerprints and dust. |
| Soft brush (e.g., makeup brush, artist’s brush) | Cleaning crevices | Gently sweep dust from recessed or openwork areas. |
| Cotton swab | Spot cleaning | Dip in small amount of water or mild soap solution, dab gently. |
Prohibited Tools
- ❌ Ultrasonic cleaners (vibration may cause cracking or chipping)
- ❌ Hard-bristle brushes, metal brushes, scrub pads
- ❌ Paper towels, kitchen towels (rough fibers may cause micro-scratches)
- ❌ Any abrasive materials (toothpaste, baking soda, scouring powder)
5. Standard Cleaning Procedure
- Inspect: Check for cracks or looseness before cleaning.
- Dry wipe: Gently wipe surface with a microfiber cloth to remove dust.
- Damp clean (if stained): Dip a cotton swab in water or mild soap solution. Gently dab the stained area.
- Dry: Immediately wipe dry with a clean microfiber cloth. Ensure no moisture remains.
- Re-inspect: Check enamel condition again after cleaning.
Note: Keep the entire cleaning process under 2 minutes to avoid prolonged moisture exposure.
6. Damage Assessment & Solutions
| Damage Level | Criteria | Recommended Action |
|---|---|---|
| Level 1 (Minor) | Fine scratches, barely visible without close inspection | Normal wear, no action needed. Continue to protect. |
| Level 2 (Moderate) | Visible scratches, reduced surface luster | Cannot be repaired but does not affect wearability. Continue use. |
| Level 3 (Severe) | Fine cracks, but enamel has not detached | Stop wearing to prevent cracks from expanding. Contact customer service. |
| Level 4 (Damaged) | Enamel has chipped, cracked, or flaked off | Cannot be repaired. Contact customer service to inquire about replacement options. |
7. Care Strategies for Different Scenarios
After Daily Wear
- Wipe surface with a dry cloth to remove sweat and oils.
- Check for new scratches or damage.
- Store separately in a soft pouch or jewelry box.
Long-Term Storage (Over 1 Month)
- Clean thoroughly and dry completely.
- Wrap in a soft pouch and place in a jewelry box.
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Inspect condition once a month.
Traveling with Enamel Jewelry
- Use a dedicated jewelry case or hard-shell organizer.
- Wrap with a soft cloth to prevent movement and impact.
- Do not mix with keys, coins, or other hard objects.
8. Absolute Prohibitions (Do NOT Do These)
- ❌ Drop or strike against hard surfaces
- ❌ Apply pressure or bend the enamel area
- ❌ Use ultrasonic cleaners
- ❌ Use hard brushes, abrasives, strong acids or alkalis
- ❌ Wear while bathing, swimming, in hot springs, or saunas
- ❌ Contact perfume, cosmetics, hairspray, or sunscreen
- ❌ Soak in water for extended periods
- ❌ Expose to direct sunlight or high heat (radiators, hair dryer)
- ❌ Store in direct contact with diamonds, gemstones, or other metal jewelry
9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Will high-fired enamel fade over time?
A: No. High-fired enamel uses mineral pigments permanently fused at high temperatures. Colors will not fade from sun exposure, age, or normal wear.
Q2: Can scratches on enamel be repaired?
A: Fine scratches cannot be removed but do not affect overall appearance. Enamel repair requires re-firing, which cannot be done by ordinary repair shops.
Q3: Can I wear enamel jewelry while washing my hands?
A: Occasional splashing is fine, but not recommended. Soap chemicals may affect enamel luster, and moisture trapped in metal crevices may cause oxidation. Remove before handwashing.
Q4: What if the enamel surface looks dull?
A: This is usually due to oil buildup. Gently wipe with a soft cloth to restore luster. If ineffective, the surface may have been corroded by chemicals.
Q5: Is chipped or cracked enamel covered by warranty?
A: Physical damage like chips and cracks is generally not covered by warranty. Please contact us — we may offer paid repair or replacement services.
Q6: How can I tell high-fired enamel from resin imitations?
A: High-fired enamel feels cool to the touch, produces a clear sound when lightly tapped, and has a hard surface. Resin feels warm, is softer, and may show marks when pressed firmly with a fingernail.
10. Care Summary (Printable)
- Daily: Wipe with a soft cloth after each wear
- Storage: Store separately in a cool, dry place
- Avoid: Impact, chemicals, high heat, water immersion
- Cleaning: Dry cloth first; if needed, cotton swab + water
- Inspect: Regularly check for cracks or looseness
11. Contact Us
If you have any questions about caring for your enamel jewelry, or need professional inspection or repair services, please contact us:
- Live chat: Bottom right corner of the website
- Email: kunyuofficial@outlook.com
Last Updated: June 7, 2026