Education

Can you wear fine jewellery in the shower or swimming?

The short answer is no, not if you want it to keep looking sharp. Solid gold and platinum will not be damaged by water itself, but soap, shampoo, conditioner and shower gel leave a thin residue on the surface and around stones that dulls the finish over time.

Chlorine from swimming pools can attack the alloys in gold and platinum, weaken solder joints and cause stones to loosen. Salt water is similar. Hot tubs are the worst combination of both. As a rule, remove rings, earrings and bracelets before swimming, showering, using a hot tub or a sauna.

Some everyday pieces are designed to handle short term water exposure, and gold chains worn day to day will survive the occasional shower, but they will need cleaning more often. Engagement rings, wedding bands and heirloom pieces should always come off before water.

Read more: everyday rings collection.

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