What Jewellery Is Waterproof?

When it comes to jewellery, many of us want pieces that we can wear in all kinds of environments, including in the pool, at the beach, or even in the shower. But which jewellery is truly waterproof, and what should you avoid? While no jewellery is completely immune to damage from water, some metals and materials are more resistant than others. In this post, we’ll explore what jewellery is best suited for water exposure and how to care for it.

1. Platinum Jewellery

Platinum is a rare and precious metal that is naturally resistant to tarnishing and corrosion, even when exposed to water. Its durability makes it ideal for engagement rings, wedding bands, and other fine jewellery that you may want to wear daily, even in wet environments. While platinum is water-resistant, it’s still best to avoid constant exposure to water, as it may dull over time if not properly cared for.

2. Solid Gold Jewellery (18k or Higher)

Pure 24k gold is naturally resistant to tarnishing and corrosion, but it is also very soft, making it unsuitable for most jewellery. 18k gold, which contains a higher percentage of pure gold and a small percentage of alloyed metals, is more durable than pure gold and can generally withstand water exposure. However, lower-karat gold (such as 10k or 14k) contains more alloyed metals like copper, which can tarnish when exposed to water, chlorine, or salt.

3. Waterproof Jewellery

Waterproof jewellery refers to pieces that are highly resistant to water, rust, tarnishing, and corrosion. While no jewellery is 100% impervious to the effects of water over time, certain materials are specifically designed to handle regular exposure to moisture without losing their lustre or structure. Waterproof jewellery is ideal for individuals who want to wear their favourite pieces while swimming, showering, or enjoying other water-based activities. Popular choices for waterproof jewellery include materials like stainless steel, platinum, titanium, and silicone, all of which are known for their durability and water resistance.

If you're looking for pieces you can wear in wet environments without worrying about tarnishing or damage, waterproof jewellery is the perfect solution. It's designed to keep up with an active lifestyle while maintaining its shine and integrity.

What Jewellery Is Not Waterproof?

While some jewellery can handle water exposure, there are several types of jewellery that you should avoid wearing in the water:

Sterling Silver: Although sterling silver is a popular and beautiful choice for jewellery, it tarnishes easily when exposed to water, especially in humid environments or saltwater.

Pearls and Porous Gemstones: Gemstones like pearls, opals, and turquoise are porous and can absorb water, leading to discolouration and damage. These stones are best kept dry to maintain their beauty.

Plated Jewellery: Gold-plated or silver-plated jewellery often has a thin layer of precious metal over a base metal. Water exposure can cause the plating to wear off more quickly, exposing the base metal, which can tarnish or rust.

Caring for Your Waterproof Jewellery

Even with waterproof jewellery, a little care can go a long way in maintaining its shine and durability. Here are some tips to keep your water-resistant pieces looking their best:

Rinse After Saltwater or Chlorine: If you wear your jewellery in the pool or ocean, rinse it with fresh water afterwards to remove any chlorine or salt that could damage the metal over time.

Dry Thoroughly: Always dry your jewellery thoroughly after exposure to water to prevent water spots or soap residue from building up.