You don’t want to take off your favorite pieces even when swimming in the sea or pool, and you’re wondering whether they are water-resistant and can withstand salt or chlorine without being damaged?
In principle, there is no need to remove your jewelry when swimming or sunbathing at the beach or pool. However, there are a few risks we don’t want to leave unmentioned. Silver, for example, can discolor due to oxidation. However, this always happens over time and is not specifically caused by sun or water. Even the grains of sand on the most heavenly beach carry the risk of leaving small scratches on your gold and silver jewelry pieces. So it’s best to be a little careful, especially when it comes to digging or building sandcastles. In addition, you should always be extra mindful in the water so that your beloved jewelry doesn’t get lost.
Gold, silver, and lab diamonds are generally considered robust materials and can tolerate contact with water. Nevertheless, factors such as salt, chlorine, sand, or mechanical stress can affect the surface and shine over time. So if you wear them while showering, washing your hands, or taking a walk on the beach, you don’t need to worry, as they can withstand brief contact with water, sun, or moisture on the skin without permanently discoloring.
However, even fine jewelry can become dull over time, silver jewelry can tarnish, and scratches can occur. You should therefore always make sure to take good care of and clean your jewelry pieces.
It is helpful if you make sure to choose high-quality jewelry pieces with as high a gold or silver content as possible, and that have well-crafted clasps and settings. Avoid jumping into the water with overly delicate jewelry pieces, as mountings or fine soldered joints may give way and stones may come loose or clasps may open. You should also make sure your jewelry fits well, for example rings: during an extended sunbath, your fingers may swell, causing tight-fitting rings to quickly become uncomfortable, while the opposite effect can occur when swimming, putting you at risk of losing your ring if your fingers become slimmer.
To prevent sunscreen, sand, or salt residue from settling in your jewelry pieces, causing scratches, or taking away their shine, you should always make sure to care for and thoroughly clean them after your day at the beach.