Can I Wear Jewelry in the Shower?
We have established that wearing solid gold in the shower is generally safe, but what about other types of jewelry such as silver or diamond?
Will Showering Ruin Gold Jewelry?
When it comes to solid gold jewelry, it is generally safe to wear in the shower. Gold is a durable metal, and a quick bath or shower won't harm it. However, if you have plated jewelry, which is a base metal covered with a thin layer of gold, it is not recommended to wear it in the shower. The thin layer of gold can easily wear away when exposed to hot water or chemicals in soaps and shampoos. Moreover, if the plated gold pieces are not properly dried after coming out of the shower, they can become tarnished as the water oxidizes with the base metal underneath, leading to discoloration and loss of shine.
It's also important to note that the chemicals in some soaps and body washes can make your jewelry lose its signature shine and polish, making it look worn down. So even if you have solid gold jewelry, it's best to err on the side of caution and take it off before showering.
Can You Wear Other Types of Jewelry in the Shower?
Diamonds
Diamonds are another type of jewelry that should be removed before showering. When diamonds are exposed to oils in soaps or lotions, it can leave a film on top of the piece, making it appear less brilliant and sparkly. The film can be difficult to remove and can make your piece look a lot worse than it did before. Plus, diamond studs can easily fall out and get lost in the drain while you're showering.
Silver
On the other hand, metals like sterling silver and platinum are usually safe to wear in the shower. Sterling silver may appear tarnished after being exposed to water and soaps, which contain chemicals like chlorine and salts that can affect the metal's overall appearance. However, sterling silver can usually be cleaned and restored to its former shine.
Platinum
Platinum is one of the most resistant metals to tarnishing and corrosion, making it safe to wear in the shower, but repeated wear and tear can still make it look less shiny over time.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is another metal that is highly resistant to corrosion and rust and can usually be worn in the shower without worrying about tarnishing or discoloration.
Pearls
Pearls, on the other hand, are delicate and should always be removed before showering. Pearls can be easily damaged by chemicals and oils, causing their signature effervescent surface to be diluted.
Watches
When it comes to watches, the protocol for wearing them in the shower depends on the material they are made of and the mechanical aspects of the watch. While most watches are water-resistant, wearing them in the shower is not recommended if you have never had them pressure-tested. Water can be detrimental to the inner components that actually make the watch function, even if the outer mechanism is not affected.
Can You Wear Jewelry in the Pool?
Finally, wearing jewelry in the pool is almost never recommended. Pools are filled with harsh chemicals like chlorine, which can discolor metals and erode the finish and polish of gemstones. It's best to remove all jewelry before swimming in a pool.
In Conclusion
In conclusion, while some types of jewelry can be worn in the shower, it's always best to err on the side of caution and remove them before getting in. The chemicals in soaps and body washes, as well as the hot water, can cause damage to some types of jewelry, and losing a piece of jewelry in the drain is never fun. Always be mindful of the materials your jewelry is made of and take proper care to keep them looking their best.
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