05/04/2026
I am reposting this from Andrew Berry Jewellery in Wales...because summer is a'comin' in and jewellery wearers need to be aware. So please read and heed...
Waterproof Jewellery??
Most of the time, this refers to jewellery made from materials that don’t easily corrode or tarnish when exposed to water. Even then, ‘resistant’ is probably a more appropriate word.
Most gold, platinum and stainless steel can generally survive showers, handwashing, and the odd swim—but they’re not invincible. The real enemies aren’t just water, it’s what’s in the water:
* Chlorine (swimming pools) can damage metals with repeated or prolonged exposure
* Saltwater is corrosive over time
* Soap, shampoo, and lotions leave films that dull shine
*Silver tarnishes really quickly in chlorinated water (but can normally be restored with a professional polish)
Even if the metal is fine, other parts might not be:
* Gemstones can be sensitive (some absorb water, some react to chemicals)
* Settings can become damaged with repeated exposure to chemicals
* Plating (gold-plated, vermeil) will wear off faster with water/chemical contact
If you want jewellery to last:
* Take it off for swimming, hot tubs, and cleaning
* Give it the occasional clean and check
No jewellery is truly ‘waterproof’. Some is just better at surviving neglect.
