I have used a pair of vintage gold plated cufflinks with rhinestones and added 2 different sizes of brass watch gears. A great accessory for your Steampunk and Cosplay affairs.

Caring for Steampunk and Neo Victorian Jewelry

Steampunk Jewelry is in reality the epitomé of Green Jewelry. The art of creating altered art pieces from vintage watch movements is the ultimate form of recycled design. Unfortunately, two of the main types of metal used in these Neo Victorian pieces are copper and brass, and wearing them can turn your finger, wrist, and neck green. Both of these metals react to sweat and to moisture, but there are a few things you can to do to prevent that green tinge from showing up on your skin.

First, be sure to keep the jewelry clean, and give it a dusting of powder before you wear it. For pieces that come into close contact with your skin such as rings, you can use one or two coats of clear nail polish. This can wear off in time, so you might need to reapply the polish again later. You should try to keep your skin as dry as possible when wearing Steampunk jewelry by using a handkerchief, or by using some type of matte finish makeup or oil blotter. I often use a very light polish of lemon oil on my brass and copper chains. This cleans them and gives them a nice shiny finish as well. Be sure to wipe off all excess oil before wearing the chains, as it could stain your clothing.