Is Gold Waterproof?
Gold is durable, but does it play nicely with water?
Gold is the go-to metal for those who wear their jewelry pieces 24/7, whether it’s to the beach or in the shower. If this sounds like you, you might have noticed some tarnishing or loss of luster in your wear-everyday gold pieces, raising the question: Is gold waterproof?
Read on to learn how different types of gold interact with water and how to preserve your jewelry’s natural luster.
Types of Gold and Their Water Resistance
Gold jewelry comes in various types, each with different water resistance.
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Solid Gold: The most durable and valuable form of gold. The purity affects its wearability:
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24K (100%) – Pure but soft and most prone to scratches.
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18K (75%) – Durable with a rich tone.
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14K (58.3%) – A balance of durability and purity, ideal for daily wear.
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10K (41.7%) – Affordable, perfect for testing new styles.
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While pure gold doesn’t tarnish, gold alloys can dull over time with exposure to water and chemicals.
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Gold Plated Jewelry: A thin layer of gold over a base metal like brass or copper. This is less durable, requiring careful maintenance to avoid wear. Remove before water exposure and clean with a dry cloth.
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Gold-Filled Jewelry: A thicker gold layer bonded to a base metal, offering better durability than gold-plated pieces. It resists tarnish and holds up better in water but still needs care, like regular cleaning and drying.
What Happens to Gold Jewelry in Water?
Water exposure can affect gold jewelry, especially when chemicals, minerals, or friction are involved. Over time, your gold may tarnish or accumulate deposits in detailed areas. Overall, it’s a good call to avoid wearing jewelry in water—chlorine and saltwater can damage the metal, while soap, shampoo, and hard water can dull the shine.
How to Protect Your Gold Jewelry from Water Damage
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Store pieces away from water
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Dry your skin before wearing jewelry
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Be mindful of exposure to soaps, chlorine, or saltwater
Practical Care Tips for Gold Jewelry
To maintain luster:
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Wipe pieces gently after use
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Store in soft pouches or compartments
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Incorporate a "jewelry off" routine before getting into water
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Schedule professional cleanings regularly
Products That Help Resist Water Damage
Invest in:
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Jewelry cleaning solutions
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Microfiber polishing cloths
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Anti-tarnish strips
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Humidity-controlled storage options
Other Waterproof Metals
Other metals that resist water well:
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Platinum: Tarnish-resistant and durable
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Stainless Steel: Strong and resistant to corrosion
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Titanium: Lightweight; ideal for active wear
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Aluminum: Corrosion-resistant
Best Gold Jewelry for Everyday Wear
For durable, stylish jewelry, consider these standout picks from John Hardy’s collections:
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The Surf Necklace: Perfect for casual wear and active days, this versatile chain works perfectly whether you're headed to the beach or brunch. A favorite from our women’s gold collection, it pairs well with the matching Surf Bracelet for an effortlessly coordinated ensemble.
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Pearl Hoop Earrings: With freshwater pearls that slide elegantly along the hoop, these earrings are as versatile as they are elegant.
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JH Essential Pavé Necklace: Crafted from reclaimed gold and ethically sourced diamonds, this necklace is conscious luxury at its finest. Its delicate design makes it perfect for layering or wearing solo.
Surf Link Ring: Inspired by organic forms, this sculptural piece pairs beautifully with the Surf Hinged Bangle for a complete look that transitions effortlessly from day to night.