Sterling Roots hand-forged jewelry is built for regular wear. Sterling silver is durable, yet responsive to environment, friction, and skin chemistry. Over time, surfaces will shift. High points may brighten. Recessed areas may deepen. Edges may soften slightly.

These changes are normal and reflect authentic use.

Collectors pieces are not disposable accessories. They are structured metalwork intended to be worn consistently, not stored indefinitely. Responsible wear supports longevity. Excessive impact, abrasion, or chemical exposure will accelerate surface change beyond typical daily use.

If worn routinely and treated with basic awareness, sterling silver jewelry can remain structurally sound for decades.

Patina is the natural oxidation of sterling silver. It develops through exposure to air, moisture, and skin chemistry. Some collectors will see faster darkening; others will notice minimal change. Climate and season also influence this process. For insight into how sterling silver reacts with environment and body chemistry, see Materials.

Patina is not damage. It is a surface reaction inherent to silver.

Tarnish may be gently maintained using appropriate silver polishing cloths. Avoid aggressive polishing compounds unless surface refinishing is intended. Over-polishing can reduce detail in hand-forged textures.

Collectors seeking a brighter surface may perform light maintenance periodically. Others may prefer the depth that develops naturally. Both approaches are acceptable.

Remove jewelry during:

• Heavy labor
  
• Repetitive impact activity
  
• Exposure to chlorine (pools, hot tubs)
  
• Cleaning agents or harsh chemicals
  
• Abrasive environments involving grit or stone dust
  

Sterling silver is resilient but not immune to chemical corrosion or mechanical damage. Chlorine and treated water can degrade metal over time. Abrasive contact can mark surfaces or thin high points.

Normal daily wear—including office work, travel, and light activity—is appropriate. Jewelry should not be subjected to unnecessary testing conditions.

Lotions, perfumes, oils, and cosmetic products can create residue on silver. Apply these products before putting on jewelry and allow them to dry fully.

Air and humidity contribute to tarnish. When not worn, store jewelry in a dry, enclosed space. Each piece includes an anti-tarnish tab to help slow oxidation during storage.

Extended moisture exposure should be avoided. While brief water contact is not inherently destructive, repeated or prolonged exposure will accelerate surface change.

For long-term preservation:

• Store in a dry, airtight container
  
• Keep pieces separate to avoid friction
  
• Use included anti-tarnish materials
  
• Avoid open-air storage in humid spaces
  

Sterling silver jewelry benefits from intermittent wear. Pieces left untouched for long periods may tarnish more heavily than those worn consistently.

If significant refinishing or structural repair is ever required, contact the studio for evaluation before attempting third-party restoration.

Hand-forged jewelry is built for longevity. With reasonable care and informed wear, collectors pieces can remain stable and structurally sound across years of ownership.

If significant refinishing or structural adjustment is ever required, review our Returns & Adjustments guidelines.