How to Care for Resin Jewelry: Cleaning, Storage, and Tips to Prevent Yellowing

Embarking on the journey of crafting fine resin jewelry came from an unexpected and therapeutic turn in my life. I’ve always turned to art as a form of therapy—working with your hands can be incredibly meditative. After some profound personal losses, resin gave me a way to process my grief through colour, texture, and slow, deliberate creation.

My resin jewelry collection is now one of the most vibrant parts of my work.
No two pieces are alike—the resin and gemstone catch the light like stained glass. These are slow fashion designs, made with intention and detail. Each one is a little work of wearable art.

If you’re new to resin jewelry or just want to make sure your favourite pieces last for years, this guide covers everything you need: how to clean it, store it, and avoid the things that cause yellowing or wear.

What Makes Joie Resin Jewelry Different

Every piece in my resin jewelry collection is made using a custom blend of pigments, crushed mica minerals and gemstone, and high-quality food-grade resin. I use food-grade resin not just for its clarity—it’s also durable, non-toxic, and safe to wear against the skin. Once cured, the surface is quite hard, light-reflective, and responds best when treated with care.

Unlike metal or stone, resin is more responsive to its environment. It can shift, fade, or scratch over time if not looked after properly. That’s not a flaw—it’s part of its character. These designs are meant to be worn and loved, and thoughtful handling helps them stay vibrant for years to come.

Caring for Resin Jewelry:

What to Avoid

Even though I use high-quality food-grade resin, there are a few things that will damage it over time. Here's what to avoid:

Direct sunlight
Prolonged UV exposure can cause resin to yellow. Don’t store your jewelry in sunlight or leave it in hot cars or windowsills.

High heat
Excessive heat can soften or expand the resin, which may loosen it from its metal setting. Keep it away from hairdryers, saunas, and hot surfaces.

Extreme temperatures
Avoid exposing your jewelry to freezing cold or high heat. Resin becomes brittle in the cold and softens when hot.

Sharp or abrasive surfaces
The resin surface can scratch easily. Don’t toss it in a bag or let it knock against keys, zippers, or other jewelry. Remove it before doing anything rough with your hands—gardening, sports, DIY work.

Fragrance, lotion, and chemicals
Perfume, hairspray, sunscreen, and household cleaners can dull or discolour resin. Apply these before putting on your jewelry, and keep it away from harsh products.

Swimming
Remove your resin jewelry before swimming. Chlorine, saltwater, and hot tubs can all cause long-term damage to both the resin and metal.

Cleaning and Storage Tips

Resin jewelry is low-maintenance, but not no-maintenance. Here's how to keep yours in great shape:

Cleaning
Use a soft cloth, mild soap, and lukewarm water. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely. Never soak or scrub the resin.

Tarnish removal
If your piece includes sterling silver, it may naturally tarnish over time. Use the polishing cloth included with your order to clean only the metal—avoid rubbing the resin. Gold may darken slightly, but it won’t tarnish in the same way.

Storage
Store your jewelry in the soft pouch it came with. It doubles as a cleaning cloth and protects from dust, tarnish, and scratches. Keep it like a nightstand drawer in a cool, dry, dark place.

Remove your jewelry before sleeping, showering, or doing anything strenuous. These small habits will help your jewelry last longer and lookings it's best.

How to Make Your Resin Jewelry Last

Resin jewelry is durable, lightweight, and made to be worn—and it’s not indestructible. With the right care, your pieces can stay as beautiful as the day you got them.

Protect your jewelry from chlorine, heat, harsh chemicals, and sharp surfaces. Store it properly. Clean it gently. Remove it before swimming, showering, or sleeping. These simple habits protect your resin jewelry's clarity, colour, and finish for the long haul.

Your jewelry is meant to be lived in—and it's also something worth caring for.
For more tips and recommendations, visit the full Jewelry Care page.