Waterproof Jewelry: What It Means and Which Metals Last
Shower, gym, sea: if you would rather not take your jewelry off, you are looking for "waterproof". But what does that mean, and which metals does it apply to? This guide explains the differences between stainless steel, 925 sterling silver and gold.
What does waterproof mean for jewelry?
Waterproof means the piece can take everyday water: washing your hands, showering, swimming and sweat. What decides it is the metal. Our stainless steel jewelry is waterproof, and so is solid gold. For 925 sterling silver we make no such promise.
Which jewelry can I wear in the shower?
- Stainless steel: yes. Stainless steel pieces are waterproof and hypoallergenic, and can be worn while swimming or showering.
- Solid gold (9K and 14K): yes. Solid gold is waterproof and does not need to be removed before showering or swimming. Repeated exposure to chlorine, however, weakens it over time.
- 925 sterling silver: with a little care. Silver is hypoallergenic. We make no waterproof promise for it. We recommend avoiding perfume, deodorant and other chemicals.
Which jewelry does not tarnish in water?
Stainless steel and solid gold. Solid gold does not oxidize or discolor. Stainless steel is not affected by water, but over time a piece may look a bit darker. That comes from regular body contact, not from water.
Can stainless steel jewelry tarnish?
Not the way silver does. Over time a piece may look a bit darker. Clean it with toothpaste, rinse it with water, and the shine is back.
Is gold-plated jewelry waterproof?
That depends on the metal underneath. Our gold and rose gold stainless steel jewelry is 18k gold plated or rose gold plated and waterproof as well. Treat gold-plated 925 sterling silver like silver. You will find every waterproof piece in our Waterproof Jewelry collection.
Is stainless steel better than silver?
It depends on what you need. Silver is a precious metal with a classic shine and carries the 925 stamp. Stainless steel is not a precious metal, but it is tough and waterproof. For jewelry you never want to take off, stainless steel is the more practical choice. For fine classics, sterling silver remains a favourite.
The three materials at a glance:
- Stainless steel, also plated: waterproof in the shower, the pool and at sport. Hypoallergenic. Clean with toothpaste when needed, then rinse.
- Solid gold, 9K and 14K: waterproof; avoid chlorine over time. Wipe with a jewelry cleaning cloth, as gold is soft and scratches easily. For sensitive skin, see our guide to hypoallergenic metals.
- 925 sterling silver: no waterproof promise. Hypoallergenic. Avoid perfume, deodorant and chemicals.
Find waterproof jewelry
Our Waterproof Jewelry collection holds stainless steel necklaces, earrings, bracelets, rings and anklets, plus belly chains for the beach. For sensitive skin, see our guide to hypoallergenic metals.
Frequently asked questions
Can I wear stainless steel jewelry in the sea or the pool?
Yes. Stainless steel can be worn while swimming. Rinse it briefly with clean water afterwards.
Is stainless steel jewelry worth anything?
Stainless steel is not a precious metal; its value is in how well it lasts. It is waterproof, hypoallergenic and made for every day.
Is stainless steel good for jewelry?
For jewelry you wear every day, yes. It goes through showers, sport and holidays with you and is hypoallergenic.
In short
If you do not want to take your jewelry off, choose stainless steel or solid gold. Keep sterling silver away from perfume, deodorant and other chemicals. That way every piece stays beautiful for a long time.
