Waterproof Jewelry: How to Prolong Their Shine Without Damaging Them?
Water-resistant jewelry has become a must-have: we want to be able to wear it every day without worrying about it getting damaged by the slightest contact with water. But be careful , "water-resistant" does not mean 100% waterproof . Even the best gold-plated or 925 silver jewelry requires special care to preserve its shine and prevent it from tarnishing over time.
In this article, we'll tell you everything you need to know about water resistance of jewelry , how to care for it properly , and what mistakes to avoid to keep it looking beautiful longer.
1. What does “water resistant” actually mean?
We often hear about waterproof jewelry , but few brands actually explain what that means.
A piece of jewelry that is labeled " water resistant " means that it can withstand occasional contact with water (rain, hand washing, a quick shower) without immediately becoming damaged . However, it is not a piece of jewelry designed for prolonged immersion such as swimming, diving, or repeated exposure to salt water.
Materials play a key role
At Maison Lissia, we use:
- 18-carat gold plated on a brass base : a beautiful alternative to solid gold, but which requires a minimum of care to preserve its shine.
- Recycled 925 silver : a naturally strong precious metal, but which can oxidize when in contact with certain elements.
📌 Good to know : Unlike stainless steel jewelry, which is completely impervious to water but often less elegant, gold-plated and 925 silver jewelry requires maintenance to remain shiny.
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2. What can affect the lifespan of a waterproof piece of jewelry?
Even though they are designed to be worn every day, certain factors can accelerate their aging . Here are the main enemies of your jewelry:
1. Fresh water vs. salt water
• Fresh water (shower, rain, tap) : Occasional contact will not have an immediate impact, but repeated exposure can gradually wear away the jewelry's coating .
• Salt water (sea, excessive perspiration) : The salt and minerals contained in sea water are very aggressive for gold-plated jewelry and can oxidize 925 silver , leading to premature tarnishing.
Tip : If you go to the sea, remove your jewelry and rinse it immediately with clean water if it has been in contact with salt water.
2. Humidity and heat
Humidity promotes the oxidation of precious metals, especially 925 silver. Places to avoid:
❌ Bathroom (fog, steam, constant humidity).
❌ Beach (mixture of salt, sand and humidity).
3. Chemicals and cosmetics
Certain products can alter the plating of jewelry and dull its shine:
❌ Perfume
❌ Sunscreen and lotions
❌ Chlorine in swimming pools
❌ Household products
Tip : Always apply your cosmetics before putting on your jewelry and avoid direct contact with these substances.
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Our water-resistant jewelry
3. How to care for your water-resistant jewelry?
To keep your jewelry in perfect condition, adopt the right habits and avoid certain common mistakes.
The right actions after exposure to water
If your jewelry has been in contact with water, here is the routine to adopt:
✔️ Wipe them gently with a soft, dry cloth (ideally microfiber).
✔️ Rinse them with clean water if they have been exposed to salt or chlorinated water.
✔️ Dry them immediately and store them in a dry place.
🚫 Products to absolutely avoid
To clean your jewelry, avoid overly aggressive solutions that could damage their finish:
❌ Bleach and other household products
❌ Baking soda and white vinegar (too abrasive for gold plating)
❌ Hard bristle brushes
Use a soft cloth slightly dampened with water and neutral soap.
How to store your jewelry properly?
Proper storage helps prevent oxidation and scratches .
✔️ Store them in a fabric-lined jewelry box .
✔️ Separate them to avoid friction between them.
✔️ Add a small moisture-proof bag to your jewelry box to absorb moisture.
Conclusion
Waterproof jewelry is a great option for those who want everyday jewelry , but proper care is essential to keep it looking its best. By following these tips, you can enjoy your jewelry for longer without worrying about it tarnishing too quickly.
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