Caring for Your Wampum

The incredible characteristics of the Quahog shell make Wampum jewelry not just beautiful but also durable and easy to care for. In fact, because the shells have a natural shine, we bring out that shine through repeated sandings rather than coating our pieces with lacquers or varnishes. This means there is nothing to wear off, so the pieces should retain their natural shine.
 
Should you find that your Wampum is losing its lustre, the simple truth is that it is probably becoming coated with dirt or oils from your skin, the air, and the environment. To bring your piece back to its true shine, you can either wash it gently with a mild dish soap or hand soap, or better yet, use a sterling silver polishing cloth.
 
We have found that these cloths, available at many outlets which sell jewelry or other sterling silver items, work as well on the Quahog shell from which we carve our Wampum as they do on sterling silver. Simply rub the piece gently but firmly with the cloth - between your fingers works best - and you will find the lustre quickly returns!

Aside from keeping the shine, we also encourage you to treat your Wampum as the artwork it truly is. Try not to treat it roughly or abuse it and it should last a lifetime.
 
We have found that hard ceramic tiles or cement flooring can crack or break Wampum pieces, especially if the piece is an intricately-sculpted work with fine detail such as the Gecko or Lobster pendants. Be careful not to drop such pieces on hard surfaces. Take them off in a carpeted area rather than the ceramic tile in the bathroom, for example, in case you should drop the piece as you are removing it. Simple common sense will go a long way in preserving your Wampum.

Accidents do happen, and here at Wildabout Wampum we understand that as well as anyone - so if the worst should happen, please refer to the section regarding our replacement guarantee here on this website and don't worry - we do honor our guarantee as long as you have not violated the terms of that guarantee.
    
Thanks, and enjoy your Wampum!