Care & Maintenance

 

Your jewelry is made to live with you. To be touched, worn, weathered.
With a little care, it will grow more beautiful over time.

Henriquetta creations are made to be worn daily and require very little maintenance. Dents and marks will naturally occur, and these only add to their story. Still, there are a few simple ways to keep your pieces safe, especially those set with stones. Gentle care, occasional cleaning, and proper storage will help them last, perhaps even longer than you.

Sterling silver, being an alloy of pure silver and copper, is prone to tarnishing. This happens when the surface reacts with air or certain chemicals, forming a thin dark layer. It’s harmless and easy to clean, though the process can speed up with humidity, salt air, or contact with perfumes and cleaning agents.

Gold alloys are more stable, but even 9k gold may dull slightly or react over time, especially when exposed to chemicals or stored improperly. Pure gold does not tarnish, it’s why ancient coins pulled from the sea still shine but lower-karat alloys can show subtle changes in tone with prolonged exposure or use.

➤ Preventive Care

To help your jewelry stay in good condition, I recommend removing it:

  • When exercising, swimming, gardening, or lifting heavy objects — these activities can deform the piece or cause injury to the wearer.
  • When applying perfumes, lotions, or sprays — these may react with metals and accelerate oxidation.
  • During housework, cooking, or cleaning — exposure to cleaning agents or chemicals may damage the surface or loosen settings.
  • When swimming in pools or hot tubs — chlorine and other chemical agents will slowly corrode metal alloys over time, even if the damage isn't immediately visible.

➤ Cleaning

Even with the best care, some tarnish is natural and perfectly fine. Over time, skin oils and dust can dull the surface of your jewelry.

  • Daily shower: Wearing your jewelry in the shower can actually help keep silver clean. Gentle exposure to water and mild soap may slow down tarnish buildup. If you plan to store the piece afterwards, make sure to dry it thoroughly.
  • Dish soap & water: Soak your piece in warm water with a drop of mild soap. Let it sit for a few minutes, then gently clean it with a soft cloth or toothbrush. Rinse well and dry completely.
  • Toothpaste: Apply a small amount of non-gel toothpaste and rub gently with a cloth or brush. Rinse thoroughly and dry.
  • Silver cleaner: For stubborn tarnish, chemical silver cleaners can be effective — but use them sparingly and only when other methods don’t work.

➤ Proper Storage

Some pieces you wear every day, others only occasionally. Here's how to store them well:

  • Before storing: Wipe the piece with a soft cloth. If you’ve washed it, make sure it’s fully dry. A quick pass with a hair dryer can help. If you don’t plan to wear the piece for a while, cleaning it first is crucial: tarnish can develop even in storage, especially if there’s residue left on the surface.
  • Minimize air exposure: Keep the piece in a sealed bag or box. I include a silica gel sachet with each order for this reason.
  • Avoid humidity: Don’t store your jewelry in the bathroom, choose a dry, cool place instead.

➤ Long-Term Care & Repairs

Every piece is made to be worn, cherished, and lived in. And I’m here to help you care for it along the way.
If your jewelry ever gets damaged — whether by time, wear, or accident — I’ll be happy to take a look and help restore it.
Repairs are always available, and in most cases, only a small fee may apply.

You’re welcome to reach out anytime, either by email or Instagram: store@henriquettajewelry.com / @henriquettajewelry