Counterbalance Care

Counterbalance Care 

Depending on the material, there are some precautions you can take to protect your bracelet's appearance and help it look its best. All materials can become dulled and scratched just from daily wear.

Renewal

Annual renewal of your Counterbalance includes not only a new climate action project engraving, but also professional cleaning and polishing (as necessary). Polishing process can remove metal and is recommended every 2-3 years. 

Storage

Store your Counterbalance in a dry, sealed environment such as a plastic bag or the box it arrives in, making sure it is dry before storing it. 

Bronze

Brass and Bronze jewelry tarnish from oxidization which can be accelerated by coming into contact with perfumes, chlorinated water, extremely humid air, and even the acidity of your skin. 

To protect your bracelet, you can remove it before exercising, showering, swimming, cleaning, and attending climate strikes (or leave it on). You can also avoid wearing it to sleep to reduce contacy with your skin. 

The bracelet may develop a patina from oxidation over time. This process can result in a green market on your skin from the copper carbonate, but as we say, Green Wrist, Green Planet. If the discoloration is an issue, you can use a jewelry-safe lacquer to create a barrier that protects the bracelet from moisture and tarnishing. 

Using a polishing cloth regularly to remove oils and residue as well as rinsing with soap and water can help clean your bracelet and keep it looking new, just make sure to dry it completely. 

Silver

The Silver Counterbalance may require cleaning over time to retain its shine. You can use silver jewelry cleaner on a cloth to remove tarnish on your Counterbalance. Then, rinse the bracelet in warm water and thoroughly dry it.

Gold

The Gold Counterbalances can be cleaned with warm water and dish soap, rinsed, and dried to clean it. A polishing cloth can help restore shine as necessary. 

Storing your Counterbalance in a protective box or pouch can help protect it when not in use. Always avoid bracelet exposure to bleach and cleaning products.

If you want to preserve the look of the bracelet, you can avoid wearing it while exercising, showering, bathing, gardening, and cooking. We personally wear it while doing all of the above because 14k gold is more resilient than 18k and can handle just about anything, except bleach. 

Final Note

Each Counterbalance is a story of action on climate change. At this pivotal moment, wearing a Counterbalance is an act of love for our planet and those who seek to protect it. Throughout your journey, scratches from wear and tear can add to the beauty and character of your bracelet, reflecting the journey you have taken together. Taking your Counterbalance on your adventures to the forest, ocean, or wherever you connect with nature, can help remind you of what is at stake.