How to Preserve Hemp Jewelry

Hemp is a sturdy fiber that possesses many beneficial qualities. For instance, it is one of the longest and strongest fibers available and it is resistant to mildew and ultraviolet light. These are especially useful benefits when hemp is used for jewelry. Jewelry made with hemp is durable enough to require significantly less maintenance than jewelry made with other materials. However, hemp jewelry must receive appropriate maintenance to last for a long time.

Place the hemp jewelry in breathable containers, like cotton bags, when you are not wearing them. This allows air to circulate. Store the bag in a cool, dry place that is out of direct sunlight.

Avoid bathing or swimming with your hemp jewelry. The fiber may be sturdy enough to withstand rough treatment, but regular exposure to water creates fuzz on the knotted rope and weakens it. Water also fades colored hemp jewelry.

Do not wear perfumes or lotions in the area on which you plan to wear your jewelry. For instance, do not apply lotion to your wrists before you wear a hemp bracelet and do not spray perfume on your neck area when you put on your hemp necklace. These items stain hemp fiber, which is very absorbent.

Be mindful of the beads used in the jewelry, if any, and let them guide your treatment of the hemp jewelry. For instance, lampwork beads can break on impact and damage your jewelry.

Wash hemp jewelry when necessary. Washing is only recommended for hemp jewelry that has not been made with dyed fibers. You may want to wash your undyed hemp jewelry if it's stained, if it has an odor or if it's a little stiffer than you would like. Pour a small amount of dishwashing detergent into a sink full of lukewarm water, mix well and soak the hemp jewelry pieces in the mixture for about 30 minutes. Rinse the jewelry in clean water, then lay it flat on a towel to dry.