Joseph Bailon Guitar Pendant Sterling Silver, Onyx & Coral – Kewa Pueblo

Taking Care of Sterling Silver Native American Jewelry

DO NOT bend or widen bracelets, necklaces, or other jewelry that is made of sterling silver or other stiff metals. Repeated bending over time will damage the metals and can alter the look of the imagery on it. If the piece has bezel set turquoise or other stones, bending it can make them loose or possibly lead to them falling out. If you have a piece that does not fit properly, please contact us and we would be happy to adjust it for you.

Our money clips are one of the few exceptions to this rule because they are designed to be slightly bent. They are constructed to be tightened or loosened to accommodate more or less currency that you are carrying.

Caring for Silver & Sterling Silver Jewelry

Exposure over extended periods of time to the elements can cause your high quality jewelry to tarnish more quickly and look aged. If you are not going to wear it for a while put it in a place that is dark, cool and dry.

The Prongs that hold the bezel set gems in place on the sterling silver jewelry can be damaged. If left damaged the stone may fall out and be lost. If you notice that the bezel is damaged contact us and we will be happy to repair it for a nominal fee.

If you see that your sterling silver is taking on a darker, yellow, or blackish color it is tarnishing. This happens when it is exposed to moisture, body oils, acids, and other elements. This is natural. Use the jewelers cloth to regularly buff your jewelry. If it is too tarnished contact us and we can clean it for you.

Jewelers Cloths are soft cloths made just for shining your jewelry. They are cheap and can be purchased in many places. They can also be used to wrap your jewelry in.

When to seek professional help

For valuable or fragile pieces: If a piece is very old, fragile, or valuable, it is safest to have it cleaned by a professional who specializes in Native American or antique jewelry.

Avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners: These can be too aggressive and damage delicate stones and settings.

Handle with care: Be careful not to bend or force pieces, as this can weaken the metal or loosen stones. Inlay pieces are especially fragile and should be handled with extra care to prevent stones from falling out.

Clean regularly: Inspect pieces regularly for loose stones or damage.

Protect gemstones: Keep jewelry away from perfumes, lotions, and other chemicals that can discolor porous stones like turquoise.

For significant repairs: If you need to adjust a piece or repair it, consult a professional to avoid damaging it.

For polishing silver

Use a polishing cloth with micro-fine, non-abrasive polishers. Do not wipe the stones.

If using a commercial silver polish, consider one that is gentle and won't dull the stones, and be careful to avoid contact with the gemstones.

Polish in long, back-and-forth motions, not circles, to avoid magnifying scratches.

Storage & Display

Keep pieces dry: Store jewelry in a dry environment.

Display with care: Shadow boxes can be used to display pieces securely, and including a packet of activated charcoal or silica gel can help absorb moisture and prevent tarnish.

Avoid plastic bags for long periods: While a plastic bag can be good for short-term storage, a more breathable storage method like wrapping in a soft cloth is better for long-term preservation.

Jewelry from the Kewa Pueblo is known worldwide for its innovative inlay and silverwork traditions. Joseph Bailon’s pieces reflect both heritage and individuality, and this guitar pendant speaks directly to the deep connection between Native artistry and music. A perfect find for collectors of Native American jewelry, musicians, or anyone drawn to distinctive, handcrafted design.