For most jewelry enthusiasts, the question arises: Can I get my jewelry wet? Not sure if you should take off your jewelry before a shower or a swim? You're not alone—these are common questions. At Dunkin’s Diamonds, we get how important it is to keep your jewelry safe while still preserving its shine and lasting beauty.
In this guide, we’ll answer key questions such as:
- How do I clean my jewelry?
- Is my jewelry safe to get wet or to wear in the shower?
- How can I prevent my jewelry from tarnishing?
- Does cleaning jewelry cause damage?
In this article, we will explore the best practices for keeping your jewelry safe and learn when to take extra precautions to keep your prized possessions in tip-top shape. Trust Dunkin’s Diamonds for expert tips and advice to ensure your treasured pieces stay stunning for years to come.
Protecting your jewelry from harsh weather.
Mother Nature can be ruthless sometimes and unpredictable at best. Though she brings us our most beautiful days, there are also those days when all we see is cold rain or a sticky, humid climate. Much like we are affected by her wrath, our jewelry can as well.
When Mother Nature throws a fit, it’s best to be prepared. Like bringing an umbrella to stop yourself from getting soaked, necessary precautions need to be taken to protect jewelry from the elements. If you’re unsure whether your jewelry can get wet or not, these next tips will not only show you how to prevent your jewelry from damage and tarnishing but also how to clean it if it does get dirty.
What do you do if your jewelry gets wet?
If you’ve ever been caught in an unexpected downpour or taken a tumble into the mud, it’s usually too late to grab an umbrella or put on rain boots on your feet. Life happens, and we have to adapt to such obstacles, but that might mean our jewelry is going to get wet before we run inside and find some cover.
And let’s be honest—most of us don’t think about protecting our jewelry in the rain anyway, we tend to be more concerned about getting drenched. But once you get dry, your precious diamond ring or rose gold necklace will be in desperate need of attention
The good news? Just because your water-sensitive jewelry, like silver, gets wet and muddy doesn’t mean it’s ruined! With a quick clean, you can minimize any damage and restore its shine. Follow these three simple steps to keep your jewelry sparkling clean:
1. Dry Immediately
Use a soft and lint-free microfiber cloth to pat your jewelry dry. This step is important because we don't want to constantly let our coveted jewelry air dry. Air drying too often can cause water spots that can leave marks on certain materials. Especially if you happened to get mud or dirt on the jewelry.
2. Inspect for Damage
Check your diamond ring or jewelry for loose stones or signs of tarnishing that can form after water exposure. Addressing small issues promptly can prevent more extensive damage. Usually, you won't have to worry about tarnishing if you can complete step one as fast as possible.
3. Deep Clean Your Jewelry Regularly
Even if your jewelry looks clean, hidden areas—like under gemstones or between prongs—can still collect residue and tarnish over time. It's a smart habit to deep clean your pieces, especially after exposure to harsh conditions like saltwater or sweat.
4. Consider Professional Cleaning for Delicate Pieces
For fragile or intricate jewelry, a professional cleaning is the safest way to preserve its beauty. Visit one of our expert jewelers at any of our locations across Florida and Ohio for a deep clean that keeps your treasures looking brand new. (See the final segment for store details.)
Is my jewelry safe to get wet?
Life can get busy, and the last thing you want to worry about is whether the precious jewelry you always wear will hold up through your daily routine. Whether you're a frequent swimmer, a beach lover, or someone who enjoys their afternoon hot shower, we’ve got all the answers you need to determine if your gemstones can handle the journey with you!
First, let’s address the biggest question: Can my jewelry get wet?
Well, yes, of course, it can—but that’s not really what you’re asking. The real question is: Will water damage the valuable stones and metals that make my jewelry so special?
In most cases, a little water won’t hurt your cherished pieces. However, over time, extensive exposure can cause issues that affect both the appearance and the functionality of your jewelry. Proper care is essential to ensure your darlings remain as stunning and durable as the day you got them.
Jewelry Resistant to Water Damage
Though we recommend keeping your jewelry dry most of the time, there are some water-resistant jewelry options made from durable metals and gemstones that can handle occasional exposure to moisture.
If you've ever asked, "Can you wear jewelry in the shower?" or "Is it safe to get jewelry wet?", you're not alone. These are common questions for anyone who wants to protect their favorite pieces without compromising daily routines.
The good news is that some jewelry is waterproof or water-friendly, depending on the materials used. Below, we’ll explore which types of jewelry are safe to wear in the pool or shower, and which ones are better kept dry on your vanity. Read on to find out what jewelry is safe to wear in water and how to care for it to maintain its brilliance and longevity.
Platinum
- Why it’s durable: Platinum is highly resistant to tarnishing, corrosion, and rust, even with frequent water exposure. Its density and durability make it a great choice for everyday wear, even in most showers or pools.
- Care tip: While water won’t damage platinum, chlorine in pools can weaken its structure over time. Rinse it with fresh water after swimming to maintain its longevity. The same can be said of some harsher soaps and chemicals that you may use on your body in the shower. Though we say some soaps are a great way to clean precious metals like platinum, it's always important to make sure you avoid abrasive or heavy-duty cleaners.
Stainless Steel
- Why it’s durable: Stainless steel is naturally resistant to rust, tarnish, and corrosion, making it ideal for water exposure. Its low-maintenance nature makes it popular for casual jewelry. But it can still tarnish if water is left on the surface for an extended period. So don't let it remain in water overnight.
- Care tip: It's also important to avoid exposing stainless steel to harmful chemicals like bleach, which can cause discoloration.
Titanium
- Why it’s durable: Titanium is lightweight, non-ferrous, non-corrosive, and hypoallergenic. In simpler terms, it doesn’t tarnish or rust, making it safe to wear in water, whether in the shower or during a swim. Its exceptional strength and resistance are also why it’s trusted in aerospace engineering and medical bone and joint replacements. However, like most natural metals, Titanium is not immune to harsh chemicals like chlorine.
- Care tip: Gently clean titanium with a soft cloth and warm, soapy water to maintain its shine. While titanium is one of the strongest metals, it also comes with the responsibility of ensuring it’s handled with care to avoid unnecessary scratches or damage to its finish.
Gold (14K and Higher)
- Why it’s safe: Gold is mostly waterproof, but it’s often mixed with other metals like silver or copper to make it stronger. Lower-karat gold (like 10K) has more of these metals, which can lead to tarnishing. Higher-karat gold (like 14K and up) has fewer of them, so it’s more resistant. While gold itself won’t get damaged by water, long-term exposure can wear down coatings or weaken joints, especially in lower-karat pieces. Still, 14K gold is generally safe to wear in the shower.
- Care tip: Avoid wearing gold in chlorine or saltwater for too long, as it can slowly weaken the metal. Check the section below for more on how saltwater affects your jewelry.
Jewelry Susceptible to Water Damage
Silver Jewelry (Sterling Silver, Pure Silver)
- Why it’s vulnerable: Silver tarnishes quickly when exposed to water, especially chlorinated or saltwater. Prolonged exposure can cause discoloration and dullness. Because of this, we often recommend you don't wear silver jewelry in the pool or when you shower, as this will increase its longevity and keep it fresh for significantly longer.
- Care tip: Store silver jewelry in a dry, airtight container and use a polishing cloth to remove tarnishing as soon as you see it appear.
Pearls and Opals
- Why they’re vulnerable: Pearls and opals contain a high-water content and are highly porous. This makes the stones susceptible to cracking or clouding when exposed to excessive moisture.
- Care tip: Store these stones in a controlled environment and avoid rapid temperature changes that could cause cracking. Avoid wearing pearls or opals while swimming or showering, and wipe them with a soft cloth after wearing to remove moisture and oils.
Emeralds
- Why they’re vulnerable: Emeralds often contain natural fractures and are treated with oils or resins that water can wash away, making them more brittle.
- Care tip: Never let emeralds sit and soak in soapy water. Instead, clean them gently with a damp, soapy cloth. If you soak emeralds in soap for too long, harsh detergents might dilute or remove oils from the stone. But gently cleaning them with a mild solvent can be effective if done with care. Additionally, never clean emeralds with harsh solvents such as alcohol-based cleaners.
Turquoise and Amber
- Why it’s vulnerable: Turquoise is a porous gemstone that can absorb water, leading to discoloration and structural weakness. Similarly, Amber is an organic gemstone that absorbs moisture like pearls and opals, which can cause it to become cloudy or brittle over time.
- Care tip: Keep jewelry with these stones dry and avoid exposing it to lotions or soaps that could seep into the stone.
Wooden or Leather Jewelry
- Why they’re vulnerable: These materials are highly absorbent and can warp, crack, or become moldy when exposed to water. If you have ever heard of the term “waterlogged,” then you know what can happen if wood is left to soak for too long.
- Care tip: Keep wooden and leather jewelry away from moisture and condition them with appropriate oils to maintain flexibility.
Does saltwater damage jewelry?
Yes, salt water can be highly damaging to jewelry. The high salinity and mineral content can corrode metals, weaken settings, and dull gemstones over time. But that doesn't mean he should fear the saltwater; instead, we should be knowledgeable of what types of jewelry they can harm. Below are examples of gemstones and metals and how they interact with saltwater.
Metals at Risk: Gold (lower karats), silver, and plated jewelry can tarnish or erode with prolonged exposure to salt. Even stainless steel can develop surface pitting. Most higher-carat gold, like 14 or 18-karat gold, should be fine in salt water unless you are a frequent beachgoer or a huge surf fanatic.
Gemstones at Risk: Porous stones like opals, turquoise, and pearls can absorb salt water, leading to discoloration and structural damage.
Long-Term Effects: Salt water can cause microscopic abrasions, making jewelry look dull and worn out faster. This can also happen when you shower with exfoliating soap, so be sure to avoid those soaps when washing jewelry.
Pro Tip: Always rinse your jewelry with fresh water and dry it thoroughly after exposure to salt water to prevent long-term damage.
How do I clean my jewelry?
You’ve learned about the necessary precautions to protect your jewelry from unnecessary damage. But what happens when you forget, or when your jewelry inevitably gets dirty? The answer, of course, is to clean it!
There are plenty of useful tips and tricks we’d love to share that will make your life a whole lot easier when it’s time to give your jewelry a much-deserved spa day. Take notes, because we’ve compiled the best advice so you don’t have to spend hours scouring the internet.
Tip 1: Use Warm Water and Mild Soap
A simple solution of warm water and mild dish soap is perfect for most types of jewelry. Soak your pieces for 10–15 minutes, then gently scrub with a soft toothbrush to remove grime. Avoid hot water, which can loosen glue or damage delicate stones.
Note: You must use a soft toothbrush to clean jewelry to avoid microabrasions that could form from extensive cleaning.
Tip 2: Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Never use bleach, ammonia, or abrasive cleaners on your jewelry. These can erode the metal, discolor stones, and cause irreversible damage. For a gentle shine, opt for specialized jewelry cleaning solutions.
If you're looking for a cleaner that will keep your diamonds and precious metals looking their best, try our specialty cleaner. Our Gem and Jewelry Cleaners come in 5.5 oz or 8 oz containers and are perfect for those days when your jewelry needs extra care. Our liquid cleaner also features a unique, non-toxic formula specifically designed for cleaning diamonds and most jewelry. A simple soak and light scrub with the included brush will help remove dirt and restore the shine and brilliance of your fine jewelry.
Tip 3: Polish with a Microfiber Cloth
After cleaning, dry your jewelry with a soft, lint-free microfiber cloth. This prevents scratching while drying and ensures a sparkling finish. Avoid using paper towels, as they can leave residue or scratches.
Care Tips by Material
If you are yearning for specific tips regarding different jewelry adornments, then here are a few cleaning pointers for some of the most popular ones.
Gold Jewelry
- Do: Clean gold jewelry regularly using warm soapy water and a soft brush to maintain its shine.
- Don’t: Use toothpaste or baking soda, as these are abrasive and can scratch gold surfaces if done incorrectly.
- Pro Tip: For an extra shine, gently buff gold jewelry with a polishing cloth designed for gold. Our Dunkin Diamonds cleaning solution is a great example of a solution that will refresh your gold.
Silver Jewelry
- Do: Use a silver-specific polishing cloth or solution to prevent tarnishing and restore brilliance.
- Don’t: Expose silver to chemicals like chlorine or sulfur, as these accelerate tarnishing.
- Pro Tip: Store silver in anti-tarnish bags or wrap it in a soft cloth to decelerate oxidation.
Gemstone Jewelry
- Do: Research the specific care requirements of your gemstones. Most can be cleaned with warm water and mild soap, but some, like opals and pearls, require extra caution and can't be cleaned with most diamond cleaners.
- Don’t: Use ultrasonic cleaners or soak porous gemstones like turquoise, as they can absorb liquids and become discolored.
- Pro Tip: Avoid exposing gemstones to extreme temperatures or sunlight, as this can cause fading or cracking.
Pearls
- Do: Wipe pearls with a soft, damp cloth after wearing to remove oils and dirt.
- Don’t: Soak pearls in water, as this can weaken the silk thread holding them together. Similarly, don't use cleaning solutions that aren't especially designed for Pearls. Pearls are highly porous and can absorb chemicals, though they may be safe chemicals for your other stones, unspecialized cleaners can harm the appearance of the pearl and harm its longevity
- Pro Tip: Store pearls in a soft pouch away from other jewelry to prevent scratches.
Platinum and Diamond Jewelry
- Do: Clean platinum and diamonds using a mild soap solution and a soft toothbrush. Their durability allows for regular cleaning without worry.
- Don’t: Use harsh chemicals, which can dull their natural brilliance.
- Pro Tip: Get diamond jewelry professionally cleaned once a year for a truly dazzling shine. See below for more details on how we can help!
Onsite Jewelry Cleaning
When in doubt, always seek a professional!
After all is said and done, you might be wondering if there’s anything you can do to make cleaning your jewelry less stressful—or if you even cleaned it well enough. If questions like these arise, don’t worry—we get it! Jewelry cleaning can feel tricky and even nerve-racking at times. That’s why, here at Dunkin’s Diamonds, all of our locations offer free jewelry cleaning services!
No matter where you purchased your precious jewelry, we’ll take great care of it for you. Plus, our experts are happy to provide professional tips so you’ll feel more confident handling basic cleaning techniques at home. We’ll make sure you leave knowing exactly what your specific gemstones and precious metals need to stay in tip-top shape. No strings attached!
You can find our store locations across Florida and Ohio here.