In winter we double down on self-care. We layer on rich creams for chapped hands, wrap up in woollen scarves and shield ourselves from the frost. But in all of that, do we remember our rings and earrings?

Winter is a real endurance test for jewelry — especially the gold-plated kind. The gold layer doesn't like friction or strong chemicals. That doesn't mean you have to hide your favourite signets in a drawer until spring.

Enemy #1: hand creams and protective balms

The biggest challenge of the winter months. The skin on your hands needs hydration, so you reach for creams with urea, vitamin A, acids or oils. For your hands — a rescue. For your jewelry — a threat.

Why?

1. Build-up: The greasy formulas of hand creams settle into the recesses of rings (especially those with irregular textures). The build-up that gathers there makes jewelry lose its shine, look matte and "dirty".

2. Chemistry: Some active ingredients in cosmetics can react with metals, speeding up the oxidation of silver (the so-called darkening).

The golden rule: Take rings off before applying cream. Wait 5–10 minutes for the product to fully absorb, and only then put the jewelry back on.

Enemy #2: gloves and scarves (the mechanical risk)

In winter our body is in constant contact with thick fabrics. Wool, mohair, the synthetic weaves of gloves — all of it generates friction. Our gold plating is solid, but constant rubbing against rough wool inside a tight glove acts like very fine sandpaper.

On top of that, exposed elements of earrings or rings can catch on the weave of a favourite sweater. Result? A pulled thread in the cashmere — or, worse, a bent earring post.

The Marai tip:

If you wear chunky rings, choose looser gloves.

Be careful when removing a scarf — unwind it from your neck first, and only then take off the hat or ear cuffs.

How to bring back the shine in winter? An at-home spa

Noticed your favourite necklace looks a bit dull? It's most likely not the plating wearing off — it's a layer of cosmetics, sweat and dust. In winter we need to clean jewelry more often!

A simple cleaning bath:

1. Prepare a bowl of warm water (not hot!).

2. Add a few drops of mild dish soap (preferably eco-friendly, free of strong detergents).

3. Submerge the jewelry for 2–3 minutes.

4. Gently rub it with your fingers (avoid toothbrushes — their bristles can scratch the vermeil plating!).

5. Rinse under running water and dry thoroughly with a soft cloth.

Storage matters

In winter our homes have radiators going, the air is dry, and after a hot shower the bathroom is humid. Remember: moisture is silver's enemy.

Never leave jewelry on the bathroom basin. Steam speeds up oxidation. The best place for your treasures is a dry, dark spot — for example the original Marai box, or a closed jewelry case lined with a soft fabric.

Jewelry is meant to be worn and to delight the eye — including in winter, when the days are short and grey. Marai-quality plating is made for everyday use. Just remember the rule: "Creams first, jewelry second", and your accessories will come through winter in perfect shape.