Pool Safety - Should you be wearing your fine jewelry while swimming?
- jodi1922
- Jul 14, 2023
- 4 min read
This is one of the most common questions I receive... can I wear my jewelry in the pool or to the beach. The short answer is- try not to, and I'm going to explain why. HOWEVER, and this is a big one. It also depends on if you have a safe place to put your jewelry (like being locked up at home). I say this because you are more likely to lose (or sadly have it stolen) if you are taking it on and off more often. That being said... if you have a safe place to put your jewelry, it's best to protect it from the chlorine.
How does chlorine damage fine jewelry?
First and foremost, let's discuss the metals (ie. gold or platinum)
Gold
1. Discoloration: Chlorine can cause gold to become discolored. It can create a chemical reaction that results in a dull, darkened appearance, often turning the gold jewelry black or brown.
2. Pitting and Erosion: Chlorine can erode the surface of gold jewelry, leading to pitting or tiny holes on the metal. Over time, this can weaken the jewelry and affect its overall appearance.
3. Weakening of Prongs: If your gold jewelry has gemstones or diamonds set in it, chlorine can weaken the prongs holding them in place. This increases the risk of stones becoming loose or falling out entirely.
To protect your gold jewelry, it’s best to remove it before entering a pool. If you forget to do so, make sure to rinse it thoroughly with clean water afterward to minimize the contact between chlorine and the gold.
Platinum
Chlorine generally has less impact on platinum jewelry compared to gold jewelry. Platinum is a highly durable and corrosion-resistant metal, so it is less susceptible to damage from chlorine. However, prolonged exposure to chlorine can still have some effects on platinum jewelry. Here’s a closer look:
1. Surface Discoloration: Chlorine can cause a slight discoloration or dulling of the surface of platinum jewelry. This is usually temporary and can be restored to its original shine with proper cleaning.
2. Surface Scratches: While platinum is a durable metal, it is not scratch-proof. Chlorine can contribute to the formation of small scratches on the surface of platinum jewelry. Regular wear and tear in a pool environment can exacerbate this.
3. Prong Integrity: Like with gold jewelry, chlorine can weaken the prongs holding gemstones in platinum settings. This can increase the risk of stones becoming loose or falling out.
While platinum is more resistant to chlorine than gold, it’s still advisable to take precautions. It’s best to remove platinum jewelry before swimming in a pool, especially if it has delicate gemstone settings. If you do wear platinum in the pool, rinsing it thoroughly with clean water afterward and cleaning it regularly can help minimize any potential damage caused by chlorine exposure.
Diamonds and Gemstones
When it comes to fine jewelry, exposure to chlorine can indeed be detrimental to certain gemstones. Chlorine does not typically cause direct damage to diamonds. Diamonds are the hardest known natural substance and are highly resistant to scratches and most chemicals, including chlorine. Therefore, exposure to chlorine is unlikely to physically damage a diamond or cause it to deteriorate. However, chlorine can cause a thin film of residue to form on the surface of the diamond, which may diminish its brilliance and sparkle. This residue can be easily removed through regular cleaning and maintenance.
Chlorine can cause damage and discoloration to various gemstones due to their chemical composition and physical properties. Here are some gemstones that can be particularly vulnerable to chlorine:
Pearls: Pearls are organic gemstones formed within living organisms. Chlorine can degrade their nacre, the iridescent layers that give them their lustrous appearance. It can cause pearls to lose their shine, become dull, and even develop cracks.
Opals: Opals are delicate gemstones known for their captivating play of colors. However, they contain water and are susceptible to dehydration when exposed to chlorine. This can lead to the gemstone becoming brittle, developing internal fractures, and losing its vibrant colors.
Tanzanite: Tanzanite is a relatively soft and delicate gemstone. Chlorine can cause it to become dull, develop a cloudy appearance, and even lead to the stone cracking or breaking due to its susceptibility to stress fractures.
Emeralds: Emeralds are beautiful green gemstones with a delicate composition. Chlorine can damage their internal structure, leading to the formation of surface-reaching cracks and fissures. It can also cause the gemstone to become hazy or lose its clarity.
Amethyst: Amethyst, a popular purple gemstone, can lose its vibrant color when exposed to chlorine. Prolonged exposure can cause the stone to fade or turn yellowish.
Aquamarine: Chlorine can affect the color and clarity of aquamarine gemstones. It may lead to discoloration or cause the stone to become pale and dull.
Morganite: Morganite is a pink variety of beryl. Like other beryl gemstones, such as emeralds, it can be susceptible to damage from chlorine. Exposure to chlorine can cause morganite to become cloudy or develop surface fractures.
While these gemstones are more prone to damage from chlorine, it's generally advisable to keep all fine jewelry away from harsh chemicals, including chlorine, to preserve their beauty and integrity.
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