When you’re shopping for jewellery you no doubt have heard the terms waterproof and water resistant, but what do those words actually mean and what pieces fall into those categories?
While they sound similar, they have key differences that can impact how you wear and care for your pieces. Understanding these distinctions ensures you choose jewellery that fits your lifestyle and maintenance preferences.
What Is Waterproof Jewellery?
Waterproof jewellery is designed to withstand full immersion in water without damage. This means you can wear it while swimming, showering, or even diving without worrying about tarnishing, rusting, or discolouration. Materials that are commonly used in waterproof jewellery include:
Stainless Steel which is resistant to rust and corrosion, making it a great choice for everyday wear.
It also does not experience the same oxidisation process that can occur to sterling silver when water or moisture dries on it's surface.
Our Rings are crafted from stainless steel to ensure they can withstand daily wear whilst hand washing, sanitising and showering.
Waterproof jewellery is ideal for those who lead active lifestyles, frequently engage in water-based activities, or simply want the convenience of not having to remove their pieces as often.
What Is Water-Resistant Jewellery?
Our water resistant range is comprised of Sterling Silver, Sterling Silver Gold Plated and Gold Vermeil. Water-resistant jewellery can handle occasional exposure to water but they type of water should be taken into account as these metals are precious and a reaction called oxidisation can take place along with dullness of the plating over time.
Sterling Silver can be polished & cleaned but when it comes to gold plated items, water from pools, spas and the ocean can contain chemicals, chlorine or salts, that can dull the surface of these materials over time.
Water-resistant jewellery requires a bit more care to maintain its appearance. If your jewellery gets wet, it’s best to dry it thoroughly and store it in a dry place to prevent tarnishing or damage.
We recommend removing your sterling silver or gold-plated jewellery before engaging in water-related activities to protect their shine and finish so you can enjoy them for longer.
Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between waterproof and water-resistant jewellery depends on your lifestyle. If you never want to worry about taking off your jewellery before swimming, showering, or sweating, waterproof options are best. However, if you don’t mind occasional maintenance and are drawn to a wider variety of styles, water-resistant pieces may suit you just fine.
Regardless of your choice, proper care will help extend the life of your jewellery. Storing pieces properly, cleaning them regularly, and keeping them away from harsh chemicals can help maintain their beauty for years to come.