The 5-Step Jewelry Care Guide for Kathmandu’s Climate
Introduction
Living in Kathmandu means dealing with a beautiful but challenging environment for jewelry. The high humidity during the monsoon can accelerate tarnishing, while the dust from the city can settle into the intricate designs of your Phulis or Balis, making them look dull. To keep your HIMANA pieces as shiny as the day you bought them, follow this simple routine.
Step 1: The "Last On, First Off" Rule
In Kathmandu, we love our perfumes, lotions, and sunblocks. However, these chemicals are the #1 enemy of Demi-Fine jewelry.
>> The Rule: Always put your jewelry on last, after your perfume and makeup have completely dried.
>> Why? Perfumes contain alcohol and chemicals that can eat away at gold plating (Vermeil) and cause silver to turn black almost instantly. When you get home, make it the first thing you take off.
Step 2: Fight the Humidity with Silica Gel
Kathmandu’s humidity (especially from June to September) creates moisture in the air that leads to oxidation.
>> The Fix: Never leave your jewelry out on a dresser or a regular jewelry stand. Store each piece in a small airtight zip-lock bag.
>> Pro-Tip: Save those little Silica Gel packets you find in shoe boxes or electronics! Drop one into your jewelry box—it will act as a dehumidifier, sucking the moisture out of the air before it touches your silver.
Step 3: The "Post-Chowk" Wipe Down
If you’ve been out in the city whether traveling by bike or walking through a busy market your jewelry has likely collected a layer of urban dust and pollution.
>> The Routine: Every evening, use a soft microfiber cloth (like a sunglasses cloth) to gently wipe your jewelry. This removes sweat, skin oils, and dust particles before they have a chance to settle and cause a reaction.
Step 4: Say No to Bathroom Storage
It’s a common habit to keep rings and earrings on a tray in the bathroom. In a humid city like Kathmandu, the steam from your morning shower is a "tarnish accelerator."
>> The Fix: Move your jewelry box to the driest part of your home, away from windows and bathrooms. Keeping it in a dark, cool cupboard is the best way to prevent the metal from reacting with temperature changes.
Step 5: The Gentle Monsoon Clean
If your silver looks a bit dull after a rainy week, don't reach for harsh chemicals or toothpaste (which can scratch the surface).
>> DIY Home Clean: Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with lukewarm water. Soak your piece for 5 minutes, gently brush with a soft toothbrush, and most importantly dry it completely with a lint-free cloth available in HIMANA kit box.
Note: For Gold Vermeil, avoid the brush; just a soft soak and a gentle pat-dry is enough to restore the glow.
Conclusion
Jewelry is an investment in your personal story. By spending just 2 minutes a day on these steps, you can ensure your HIMANA Jeweler stay bright and beautiful through every Kathmandu season.
[Need a professional polish? Bring your HIMANA pieces to our studio for a seasonal refresh!]