What Jewelry Can I Swim In?

What Jewelry Can I Swim In?

Stay Stylish (and Safe) in the Water with This Essential Jewelry Guide

Whether you’re headed to the beach, pool, or planning a tropical getaway, one question comes up often:
“Can I wear my jewelry while swimming?”

At Martin Busch Jewelers, we believe that luxury should move with your life—but not all jewelry is made for water. While some materials can handle a splash, others can tarnish, warp, or even get damaged when exposed to saltwater or chlorine.

While we always recommend removing your jewelry before swimming or bathing, we understand that’s not always realistic for certain lifestyles. So if you do choose to wear your jewelry in the water, here’s what you need to know about which materials are safe—and which ones to avoid.

Jewelry You Can Swim In

If you love to keep your jewelry on—even in the water—these are the materials and styles that are safest to wear while swimming:

1. Solid Gold (14k or Higher)

Solid gold is one of the most water-friendly metals out there. It won’t rust, tarnish, or discolor in water—making it a top choice for beach days or poolside lounging.

Best for:

  • Simple gold chains

  • Stud earrings

  • Solid gold stacking rings

Caution: Hollow gold jewelry is more delicate and may dent over time with water exposure.

2. Platinum

Platinum is one of the most durable and non-reactive metals available. It’s highly resistant to corrosion, which means it can handle both chlorine and saltwater better than most metals.

Best for:

  • Wedding bands

  • High-end engagement rings

  • Heirloom-quality chains and earrings

Bonus: Platinum doesn’t lose metal over time like gold does when it scratches—perfect for long-term wear.

3. Titanium & Surgical-Grade Stainless Steel

These industrial-strength metals are used for everything from watches to body jewelry because of their resistance to tarnishing, rust, and corrosion.

Best for:

  • Activewear-style jewelry

  • Permanent jewelry or body piercings

  • Minimalist styles made to live in

These are excellent options for swimmers and surfers who rarely take their jewelry off.

Jewelry to Avoid While Swimming

Even your most beautiful pieces may not be water-friendly. Here’s what to leave behind before you dive in:

1. Sterling Silver

Sterling silver may look great on land, but it’s prone to tarnishing and darkening when exposed to moisture, especially saltwater or chlorine.

Avoid wearing:

  • Silver rings

  • Bracelets with silver components

  • Silver-plated chains

Frequent exposure can dull its shine or cause permanent discoloration.

2. Gold-Plated or Vermeil Jewelry

Plated jewelry has only a thin layer of gold over another metal (often brass or silver). That layer wears down much faster in water, exposing the base metal beneath.

Not ideal for:

  • Fashion jewelry

  • Nameplate necklaces

  • Plated bangles or rings

If you want long-term shine, invest in solid gold instead.

3. Soft or Porous Gemstones

Stones like opal, turquoise, pearl, and malachite are soft and highly porous—meaning they absorb water and can become discolored, cracked, or cloudy over time.

Avoid swimming with:

  • Pearl studs or necklaces

  • Turquoise rings

  • Opal engagement rings

Salt and chlorine can also degrade the setting over time, putting your stones at risk of loosening or falling out.

4. Delicate or Antique Jewelry

Even if the metal is water-safe, intricate pieces with filigree, prongs, or vintage settings can be weakened by water exposure over time—especially if they include adhesives or fragile stones.

It’s best to leave these heirlooms at home during beach vacations or pool days.

Tips for Wearing Jewelry in the Water

If you’re going to swim in your jewelry, follow these simple tips to protect your pieces:

  • Rinse after swimming: Especially after saltwater or chlorine exposure, rinse your jewelry with fresh water and gently dry it with a soft cloth.

  • Avoid hot tubs: Heat and chlorine are a tough combo that can warp metals and loosen stones.

  • Check your settings regularly: Water exposure can loosen prongs or weaken clasps, so regular inspections are a must—especially for engagement rings or statement pieces.

  • Invest in waterproof pieces: Ask us about durable options for everyday wear, including solid gold chains, platinum bands, and sport-friendly jewelry designed to move with you.

Keep the Shine—In or Out of the Water

At Martin Busch Jewelers, we believe your jewelry should be beautiful and built to last. Whether you’re headed on a tropical honeymoon or just love a swim in the local pool, we’re here to help you find (or design) jewelry that fits your lifestyle.

Need a solid gold chain for everyday wear? Want a platinum ring that can handle a dive? Or maybe you’re looking to upgrade from plated pieces to water-safe staples?

Visit us in our NYC showroom or shop online to discover jewelry that fits your life, your look, and yes—even your next swim.

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