#4 - Summer Jewelry: How to Protect Your Jewelry from the Sea, Sun, Sunscreen, and Sweat

Jewelry · Care & Advice

Summer is the season when jewelry is worn the most. Necklaces, rings, and bracelets accompany days at the beach, outdoor aperitifs, and vacations—but it's also the time when they're exposed to factors that can alter their appearance.

Salt water, chlorine, sunlight, sunscreen, and sweat don't necessarily ruin a piece of jewelry, but they can accelerate the oxidation of some metals or cause them to lose their shine. Understanding these effects allows you to take some simple steps to keep them beautiful longer.

The sea and the saltiness

The sea is one of the elements that most challenges jewelry. Salt, combined with humidity and sand, can promote the oxidation of metals such as silver, bronze, and brass. Furthermore, small grains of sand can cause slight abrasions on the surface. It's advisable to remove jewelry before swimming and rinse it with fresh water if it has come into contact with seawater.

Pay attention to the swimming pool too

Chlorine can also affect the appearance of metals. Frequent exposure can dull their shine and accelerate the natural oxidation process. If you're planning a day at the pool, it's best to leave your jewelry safe and put it on after your swim.

Sunscreen and perfumes

Sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin, but it can leave a thin film on the surface of your jewelry, making it less shiny. The same goes for perfumes and body oils. The solution is simple: apply the products to your skin, wait a few minutes for them to absorb, and only then put on your jewelry.

The role of sweat

During the summer, it's normal to sweat more, and this can also affect the appearance of your jewelry. Prolonged contact with sweat can promote oxidation, especially on silver, bronze, and brass. This isn't a defect in the metal, but a natural process that can also vary based on the pH of each person's skin. After a particularly hot day or after physical activity, simply wipe the jewelry with a soft cloth to remove any moisture and sweat residue.

Small gestures that make a difference

—Remove them before entering the sea or swimming pool
—Wear them after applying sunscreen and perfume
— Dry them if they have come into contact with water or sweat
— Store them in a dry place when not in use.

Jewels are made to be worn and accompany you in everyday life, even during the summer.

With a little extra care, you can preserve its beauty over time, preventing salt, chlorine, or sweat from altering its appearance. There's no need for complicated care: just a few good habits will keep your favorite jewelry looking great season after season.

Written by Adele