CARING FOR VINTAGE DÉCOR

Please note that any natural wear or patina is characteristic of vintage pieces. Some might have small flaws from previous use. Most items should not be used for their original purpose, rather, as purely decorative items.

• For exceptionally rare or antique pieces, we recommend displaying them in a secure place where they will not be excessively handled or prone to falling.
• To clean, use only a dampened soft cloth. Do not put in a dishwasher.
• Please note that barware, cookware, and others items should be carefully inspected to ascertain if they are still able to function for the purpose they were intended for. We sell such pieces for their historical, cultural, or artistic significance. Some metals, for instance, are no longer deemed safe for cooking or serving.
• For decorative porcelain pieces, we recommend using a commercial museum putty in order to safely stabilize the item.
• Ideally, silver or copper should only be cleaned with a natural product rather than harsh chemicals. We recommend you research the techniques of collectors before doing it yourself.
• Wood pieces can be sensitive to changes in temperature and even direct sunlight. With polished wood, make sure to keep the item lightly oiled.

Still have questions? Kindly contact us at service@fonfrege.com.

CARING FOR JEWELRY

We have personally cleaned and inspected every piece we sell. We source our vintage pieces from all over the world, and many are from private collections.

Vintage jewelry is appreciated for its unique patina. Any small variations in gem colours, light surface wear, and other imperfections are part of the charm of vintage pieces.

Some of our pieces are only a few decades old, others a century. No matter what their age, it is important to take proper care of your cherished pieces.

• Always return jewelry to its padded case or jewelry box when not in use.
• If necessary, use a gentle metal polish and soft cloth to clean your jewelry. Gemstones can sometimes dry out over time. You can use a light dab of coconut oil to bring them back to life.
• Some perfumes or chemicals containing acid or alkaline can affect the character and quality of any kind of jewelry. We recommend that you put on jewelry after you have applied makeup, perfume, or hair products.

 

Avoid wearing jewelry while engaging in intense activities, such sports or housework, and never wear your jewelry when bathing or swimming. 

Avoid washing gemstones with commercially available jewelry cleaners. Do not use any kind of ultrasonic cleaner. 

Natural body oils and dirt can sometimes affect the appearance of jewelry. Use a clean and soft cloth to clean the surface. If you note excessive tarnish, we recommend bringing your piece to a jewelry professional.

Extreme temperatures such as steam or prolonged exposure to the sun can sometimes affect the character of delicate stones. Do not leave your jewelry in a hot car or exposed to the elements. 

We recommend storing your jewelry individually, in the protective pouches we provide with each purchase. Never allow jewelry pieces to rub against one another.

Still have questions? Kindly contact us at service@fonfrege.com.

CARING FOR RARE BOOKS AND PERIODICALS

We source our collections from private libraries around the world.

Most if not all of our books and periodicals are first or limited editions or rare imprints. Some individual volumes may show signs of aging to the spines, covers, or yellowing of the pages. This is characteristic of rare books and periodicals.

Taking the proper care precautions will allow you to pass it along to future generations.

• Until recently, most books were not printed on acid-free paper. We encourage you to store a rare volume in an acid-free storage box, such as can be found at art stores.
• Bright sunlight can cause fading to a book jacket or exposed spine. We recommend keeping treasured volumes out of direct sunlight and preferably in a well-shaded room.
• Do not leave rare books and periodicals outdoors, and take care that they are not exposed to humidity or dampness as this will cause damage to the papers.
• Rare books should be stored vertically on a shelf and snug (but not too tight) against other books of similar size or a book end.

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• A book with a dust jacket should always be protected by a clear archival quality, acid-free Mylar cover. For first editions, much of the book’s value is derived from the condition of the jacket.
• In some cases, certain volumes we sell no longer possess their original book jacket. If possible, we will provide a facsimile cover and this will be clearly noted in the item description. If you should decide to sell your book, it is your responsibility to ensure that the buyer is aware that the cover is not original.

THE WEAR AND CARE OF ESPADRILLES

Our espadrilles are manufactured in France in the traditional method. You will note that the natural jute sole does not have any vulcanized rubber. This is the classic espadrille and it’s one reason why they are so comfortable.

• Your espadrilles will be very tight and stiff when you first try them on. This is normal. They will gradually become your favourite and most comfortable shoe. We recommend you wear them around the house as a slipper at first.
• Wear the espadrille as a mule, without the heel section. After two weeks of continuous wear, begin trying to stretch the heel on. It will still feel tight. Eventually the canvas will stretch and the espadrille will begin taking on the form of your foot for a custom fit.
• Avoid getting your espadrilles wet. The jute sole will absorb the water and become very still again. If this occurs, simply allow the espadrilles to dry in a warm dry place. Once they are dry, begin wearing again as usual, and the shoes will return to your custom fit.
• Espadrilles are not meant for heavy wear. In France, it is typical to wear them for only one season as a casual beach or resort shoe. Each summer, the French purchase a new shoe and a new color.