Hey Harper Jewelry Review: Affordable, Waterproof Pieces That Won't Tarnish

13.05.2024 - 21:21 / cntraveler.com

My approach to jewelry has always skewed toward the more the merrier. But one of the things that no one tells you about strategically stacking jewelry is just how cumbersome it can be—especially while traveling. Constantly having to take off my vintage rings in between hand washes (with the fear of leaving them on the bathroom basin at hip Parisian restaurant Bonnie) and removing layers of necklaces before a trip to the beach to prevent any potential discoloration became quite tedious. And then I discovered Hey Harper’s waterproof jewelry.

I was admittedly introduced to the brand in a flashy targeted ad on social media. Positioning itself as a destination for water- and sweat-proof jewelry brand with trend-focused collections, the Lisbon-based label brought its designs to the market in 2018 as long-lasting pieces that you didn’t have to worry about tarnishing—despite exposure to humidity and moisture. As someone who flits between cities, countries, and climates quite regularly, durable, long-lasting styles are not just preferred but required. I was skeptical about Hey Harper’s lifetime color warranty, which guarantees that its waterproof pieces won’t fade or turn green over time when exposed to potentially harmful elements, like saltwater or chlorine.

Rather than simply take the brand’s word for it, I decided to bring a diverse selection of chain necklaces, rings, and earrings with me to three different countries in the last four months to see just how well they hold up in different situations. Whether it was exploring the cold, rainy streets of Ireland, battling the heat in Mexico, or navigating the temperamental conditions of Paris in spring, I really put the pieces to work. I wore them consistently and without taking them off when I showered, worked out, or swam in order to see if what the brand promises is true.

What separates Hey Harper’s waterproof technology apart from other anti-tarnish brands is its 10x fortifying PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition process). Instead of gold or silver plating (where fading is inevitable), each piece is cast with a thin-film coat that’s essentially bonded to the surface to ensure long-lasting color. This means that any exposure to chlorine, hand soaps, or other elements that would otherwise oxidize your jewelry won’t chip away at the exterior. Per the brand, its pieces are completely life-resistant, which means that I can wear my rings and necklaces throughout a full day, even to the pool or during a workout at the hotel gym.

On a short list of requirements I have for the jewelry I bring into my collection, specifically when I travel, durability is at the top. All of Hey Harper’s waterproof pieces are made from stainless steel—which is ideal when talking about