What Makes Jewellery Waterproof & Non-Tarnish?

Jewellery is the number one gift for women as it can effortlessly elevate your look, and make any outfit stand out. Unfortunately, most jewellery is vulnerable to water. When such jewellery is exposed to water, it will rust, loose its shine and colour. This is obviously something you want to avoid when looking for jewellery. As a brand with multiple years of experience in the industry, it’s safe to say that we tested all possible materials and stock items that are waterproof and tarnish-free! If you’ve ever wondered what makes jewellery waterproof, this blog will break it all down for you.

Jewellery Materials That Aren't Waterproof

Let’s start with the jewellery materials that aren’t waterproof or may require a little extra care:

Copper: One of the significant drawbacks of copper is its tendency to tarnish when exposed to moisture, air, and skin oils. This tarnishing can result in a greenish discoloration known as Verdigris. While some people appreciate this natural aging process, others may prefer to keep their copper jewellery polished. We don't use copper to craft any of our jewellery. 

Brass: Brass is one of the cheapest jewellery materials on the market and therefore very commonly used by fashion jewellery companies. Brass is also malleable and can be easily shaped into intricate designs. It is generally more durable than copper due to the addition of zinc, which gives it added strength. It is vulnerable to water, as it will build up a layer that will change the look of its surface. However, this issue can be combated by the type of plating used on brass jewellery, increasing its durability and longevity. 

Jewellery Materials That Are Waterproof

Not all jewellery is created equal when it comes to water resistance. The durability of jewellery in water depends on the metal used, the protective coatings applied, and the craftsmanship. So what materials should you look for if you’re looking for waterproof jewellery? We break it down for you in this list:

Stainless Steel: One of the most water-resistant metals, stainless steel is naturally corrosion-resistant, making it an excellent choice for waterproof jewellery. It does not tarnish, rust, or turn green, even when exposed to water.

925 Sterling Silver: Although 925 sterling silver is able to resist water, it is not naturally waterproof. When coated with protective layers like rhodium or gold plating, it becomes much more resistant to tarnishing and corrosion.

Platinum jewellery: Platinum jewellery is waterproof, doesn’t tarnish and never gets oxidized. However, it can be pretty expensive, resulting in it being less popular than stainless steel.

Titanium jewellery: Titanium is the hardest and purest form of metal that is used for jewellery. Titanium won’t be affected by rust and won’t discolour. It’s a great material for producing jewellery. The only con to titanium jewellery is that it is quite expensive.

Types of Jewellery Coating

Now that you know all about what jewellery materials you want and what jewellery materials to avoid, let's talk about the types of jewellery plating. Jewellery plating is the process of coating the base metal to protect the jewellery piece. The finish of jewellery plays a major role in its water resistance, durability and shine.

18K Gold Plating: Gold-plated jewellery is covered with a thin layer of gold, which acts as a barrier against water exposure. Lower-quality gold plating can wear off quickly, however high-quality 18K gold plating can last several years, making it a superior choice for longevity.

Rhodium Plating: Rhodium, a rare and highly durable metal, is often used to coat sterling silver jewellery. It adds a protective layer that prevents tarnishing, making it more water-resistant. It can last several years. Its degradation can be caused by constant friction, exposure to chemicals as well as the thinness of the plating itself.

PVD-plating: PVD-plating is also known as Physical Vapor Deposition. This technique blasts gold onto stainless steel at an extremely high temperature. While PVD-plating offers superior wear resistance and adhesion compared to other coatings, its durability depends on coating thickness, substrate compatibility, and environmental conditions. However, it can last years with the proper care. 

Silver Plating: A thin layer of silver is applied to a base metal, giving the look of sterling silver at a lower cost. Rusting can be caused by factors such as a thinner coat, porosity and the quality of the plating. With the proper care, it can generally last anywhere from a few months to several years. 

E-Coating: An electro-coating process that provides a protective layer, often used on costume jewellery to prevent tarnishing and wear. It has strong adhesion, resistance to chipping and cracking, and salt-spray resistance. Although it can last several years, its degradation can be caused by environmental factors such as moisture, chemicals and abrasion, as well as issues with the e-coating itself. 

We use 18K Gold plating and rhodium plating here at ROMEELA. 

Can You Wear Waterproof Jewellery in Water?

While jewellery can withstand exposure to water, prolonged contact with chemicals like chlorine, saltwater, and harsh soaps may reduce its lifespan. Here’s how you can safely wear your jewellery in different settings:

1. Poolside Protection

Chlorinated pool water can be harsh on jewellery, especially on gold plating. While stainless steel is highly resistant, sterling silver with rhodium plating is better protected from tarnish. To maintain longevity, rinse your jewellery with fresh water after swimming and dry it thoroughly.

2. Beach-Friendly Jewellery

Saltwater can be more corrosive than chlorine, as it speeds up oxidation. Stainless steel jewellery performs well in these conditions, but sterling silver should be cleaned and dried immediately after beach exposure to prevent potential dulling.

3. Summer Sweat & Humidity

Sweat and humidity can accelerate tarnishing in certain metals. However, stainless steel and rhodium-plated silver provide strong resistance to moisture and sweat, making them perfect for everyday wear in warm climates.

How to Maintain Waterproof Jewellery

To ensure your jewellery remains in top condition, follow these simple care tips:

• Rinse After Water Exposure: If your jewellery has been in the pool or ocean, rinse it with fresh water and pat it dry.

• Store Properly: Keep jewellery in a dry, airtight container when not in use to prevent unnecessary exposure to moisture.

• Use Gentle Cleaning: Wipe jewellery with a soft cloth and mild soap occasionally to remove any residue.

• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Perfumes, lotions, and cleaning products can weaken plating over time.

For more tips on how to take care of your jewellery, visit our jewellery care page.

Investing in high-quality jewellery with proper coatings like 18K gold or rhodium plating can ensure your pieces remain durable and water-resistant. While no jewellery is entirely indestructible, choosing well-crafted waterproof jewellery allows you to enjoy your favourite accessories without worry—whether you’re swimming, sweating, or simply enjoying a sunny day at the beach. By following simple care tips, you can extend the life of your jewellery and keep it looking as radiant as the day you bought it!

Let's go waterproof jewellery shopping!→