3 Things You Should Never Do with Your Jewelry in Summer

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Always remove jewelry before swimming in pools, the sea, or the ocean
Take off your pieces before hiking, sports, and outdoor adventures
Apply sunscreen and wait 30 minutes before putting your jewelry back on
A few simple habits can keep your gemstone pieces looking beautiful for years

In This Article

Why These 3 Rules Matter
Pools, Sea and Ocean
Outdoor Activities
SPF and Sunscreen
Quick Summer Jewelry Checklist
Summer Jewelry Care FAQ

Why These 3 Rules Matter

Summer is my absolute favorite season. The long days, the sunshine, being outdoors, I love all of it. And I know you feel the same way about wearing your favorite jewelry pieces everywhere you go.

But here’s the thing: some of the most common summer activities can actually damage your jewelry without you even realizing it. Chlorine, saltwater, sunscreen, sand, sweat, they all take a toll on metals and gemstones over time.

I’ve learned these lessons over the years (sometimes the hard way!), and today I want to share the 3 simple rules I follow every summer to keep my pieces safe. They’re easy, they take just a few seconds, and they’ll help your jewelry stay beautiful for years to come ❤️

1. Pools, Sea and Ocean

Swimming is my happy place. I could spend all day in the water! But I always, always remove my jewelry first. Chlorine and saltwater can be very harsh on metals and gemstones, and even a single swim can start causing damage that builds up over time.

My favorite place in the world, but no jewelry

What happens to your jewelry in the water:

Saltwater corrosion: The high salt content in ocean water speeds up tarnishing and can make metals look dull, discolored, or pitted
Chlorine damage: Pool chemicals react with gold, silver, and copper, causing discoloration and loss of shine
Chemical residues: Pool chemicals like algaecides and pH balancers leave invisible residues that build up on your pieces
Sand scratches: Sand and small particles in seawater can scratch gemstones and softer metals
Risk of loss: Water makes your fingers slippery, and waves can easily dislodge rings, bracelets, and necklaces

2. Outdoor Activities

Yes, that’s really me in the photo below, back in 2013 in Switzerland! Wonderful hiking, but no gemstone jewelry on 🙂

I know it’s tempting to wear your favorite pieces everywhere, but during intense physical activities like hiking, running, or sports, it’s much safer to leave them at home.

Hiking and enjoying the summer, back in 2013

Why you should remove jewelry for outdoor activities:

Safety first: Rings, bracelets, and necklaces can get caught on branches, rocks, or equipment, leading to scratches, breakage, or even injury
Loss risk: When you’re adjusting clothing or gear on a trail, small pieces like earrings or rings can easily slip off and disappear in the grass or dirt
Sweat and friction: Perspiration can speed up tarnishing, and constant movement creates friction that wears down delicate settings over time

PRO TIP

Keep a small soft pouch in your bag or car. When you head out for a hike or any outdoor activity, tuck your jewelry safely inside. It only takes a moment, and your pieces will thank you for it!

3. SPF and Sunscreen

Wearing sunscreen is so important, not just in summer but all year round (seriously, please wear it every day!). But when you apply your SPF, wait at least 30 minutes before putting your jewelry back on. Let the cream fully absorb into your skin first.

Always wearing my Sunscreen creams, but waiting to wear the jewelry

How sunscreen affects your jewelry:

Residue buildup: Sunscreen leaves a film on jewelry that makes it look dull and cloudy, especially on pieces with detailed designs or porous gemstones like Opals, Corals, and Pearls
Chemical reactions: Ingredients like avobenzone and oxybenzone can react with silver and copper, causing tarnishing and discoloration
Gemstone sensitivity: Organic gemstones such as Pearls and corals are especially vulnerable. Chemical residues combined with UV exposure can cause them to lose their natural glow or even change color

My sunscreen routine for jewelry days:

Apply your sunscreen first, before any jewelry
Wait for it to fully absorb (about 30 minutes)
Then put on your jewelry
In the evening, gently clean your pieces with mild soap and water

“A few simple habits today will keep your favorite pieces sparkling for many summers to come.”

Quick Summer Jewelry Checklist

Here’s a quick reference you can bookmark for the summer months:

Remove jewelry before swimming (pool, sea, lake, any water)
Take off pieces before hiking, sports, or physical activity
Apply sunscreen first, wait 30 minutes, then put jewelry on
Store pieces in a soft pouch when not wearing them
Clean your jewelry gently after a day of summer adventures
Keep jewelry away from direct contact with perfume and hair spray
If in doubt, take it off! Better safe than sorry

Holding the Sunset

And the most important thing: ENJOY your summer! Smile more, hug more, dream more, love more. Your jewelry will be right there waiting for you when the adventure is over ❤️

WHAT CUSTOMERS SAY

“GORGEOUS! I have never seen such Moonstones. This piece is my favorite!”

– Sherry, on the The Moon Dust Bracelet

- Solid Gold 14K Rainbow Moonstone Multi Wrap Bracelet Necklace, Multi Layered Bracelet, Double Layered Necklace, Long Necklace

COMMON QUESTIONS

Summer Jewelry Care FAQ

Can I wear my gold jewelry in the pool?

Even solid gold can be affected by pool chemicals over time. Chlorine reacts with gold alloys and can weaken the metal, especially at solder points. I recommend removing all jewelry before swimming, including gold pieces.

What if my jewelry gets wet by accident?

Don’t worry! Rinse it right away with clean, lukewarm water and pat it dry with a soft cloth. One accidental splash won’t ruin your jewelry. The damage happens from repeated or prolonged exposure.

How do I clean my jewelry after a summer day?

Use mild soap (like dish soap) with lukewarm water. Gently clean with a soft brush, rinse well, and pat dry. Avoid harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners for delicate gemstones. For more detailed guidance, check out our jewelry care and repair guide.

Is it safe to wear jewelry at the beach without swimming?

You can, but be cautious. Sand can scratch softer gemstones, and salt air alone can start tarnishing some metals. If you want to wear pieces at the beach, choose simpler items that are easier to clean afterwards, and remove them before going near the water.

Can sunscreen permanently damage gemstones?

Repeated exposure to sunscreen chemicals can affect porous and organic gemstones like Pearls, Opals, and corals. These stones can absorb the chemicals, leading to discoloration or loss of luster over time. The good news is that if you follow the 30-minute wait rule and clean your pieces regularly, your gemstones will stay safe.

How should I store my jewelry during summer vacations?

Bring a small, soft-lined jewelry pouch or travel case. Store each piece separately to prevent scratching. Keep the case in a cool, dry place (not in direct sunlight or inside a hot car). When you’re ready to wear them, put them on last, after sunscreen and perfume have dried.

TREAT YOURSELF