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 survive water itself without damage, 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 attacks the alloys in gold and platinum, weakens solder joints and loosens stones. Salt water does much the same. Hot tubs combine the worst of both. As a rule, take rings, earrings and bracelets off before you swim, shower, or use a hot tub or sauna.

Some everyday pieces handle short term water exposure well, and a solid gold chain worn day to day, such as the Amal 9k Gold Chain Necklace, will survive the occasional shower, though it will need cleaning more often. Engagement rings, wedding bands and heirloom pieces should always come off before water. If a piece has already picked up a film of soap residue, our guide to cleaning a lab grown diamond ring at home walks through the fix.

If you want jewellery you rarely have to think about, solid gold is the starting point. Our everyday rings, everyday necklaces and everyday bracelets are made in solid gold for daily wear, and you can book a consultation at our Hatton Garden studio if you would like help choosing between them.

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