Summer means beach vacations, pool days, outdoor weddings, and plenty of sunshine - but it can also be one of the toughest seasons for your jewelry. From sunscreen residue to chlorine exposure, everyday summer activities can dull your diamonds, damage certain gemstones, and shorten the life of your favorite pieces if you're not careful.
The good news? With a few simple habits, you can keep your jewelry sparkling all summer long.
Here's everything you need to know.
Does Sunscreen Damage Jewelry?
Surprisingly, yes.While sunscreen won't permanently ruin most fine jewelry, it can leave behind a stubborn film that builds up over time.
This residue can:
- Make diamonds appear cloudy
- Reduce sparkle
- Collect around prongs and settings
- Build up underneath gemstones
- Attract dirt and oils
- Lotions, tanning oils, moisturizers, and bug spray can have similar effects.
Best Practice: Apply sunscreen first.
Wait a few minutes for it to absorb before putting on your jewelry or simply put your jewelry on after you've finished getting ready.
If your rings start looking dull during the summer, chances are they just need a professional cleaning.
Can You Wear Jewelry in the Pool?
It's best not to. Chlorine is one of jewelry's biggest enemies.Over time, chlorine can weaken precious metals like:
- White gold
- Yellow gold
- Rose gold
While a single swim probably won't cause noticeable damage, frequent exposure can shorten the lifespan of your jewelry.
Pool Rule
Before jumping into the pool, take off all:
- Engagement rings
- Wedding bands
- Diamond jewelry
- Gold chains
- Bracelets
- Luxury watches
Is Salt Water Bad for Jewelry?
Salt water is more gentle than chlorine, but it's still not ideal.
Salt crystals can:
- Scratch softer gemstones
- Leave residue on metal
- Accelerate wear over time
- Dry out organic gemstones
Can Sweat Affect Jewelry?
Yes. Sweat contains natural salts that can build up on jewelry throughout the summer.
Combined with sunscreen and everyday oils, perspiration can:
- Dull diamonds
- Create buildup around settings
- Make jewelry look dirty much faster
Summer Activities That Can Damage Jewelry
Certain activities put your jewelry at greater risk of loss or damage.
Consider removing jewelry before:
- Swimming
- Gardening
- Weightlifting
- Beach volleyball
- Paddleboarding
- Boating
- Moving furniture
- Home improvement projects
Which Gemstones Need Extra Care?
Not all gemstones have the same durability.
Diamonds
Diamonds are the hardest gemstone, but they're not indestructible.
They can still:
- Chip along the edges
- Collect lotion and sunscreen
- Become loose if prongs wear down
Emeralds
Emeralds often contain natural inclusions and may be treated with oils to enhance their appearance.
Avoid:
- Harsh chemicals
- Ultrasonic cleaners
- Extended soaking
Opals
Opals are one of the most delicate gemstones.
They don't love:
- Sudden temperature changes
- Long periods in direct sunlight
- Dry environments
- Chlorinated water
Pearls
Pearls are organic gemstones and are especially sensitive to:
- Sunscreen
- Perfume
- Hair spray
- Sweat
- Salt water
- Household cleaners
Put pearl jewelry on after applying beauty products, and remove it before swimming or exercising.
Turquoise
Turquoise is naturally porous.
It can absorb:
- Sunscreen
- Oils
- Makeup
- Perfume
Store turquoise separately and wipe it clean after wearing.
Morganite, Aquamarine & Tourmaline
These popular gemstones are generally durable enough for everyday wear but should still be removed before swimming, heavy exercise, or activities where they may receive hard impacts.
How Often Should You Clean Your Jewelry in the Summer?
Summer usually means your jewelry needs cleaning more often than usual.
At home:
- Warm water
- Mild dish soap
- Soft toothbrush
- Lint-free cloth
For engagement rings worn daily, we recommend professional cleanings every six months and inspections at least once a year to help maintain both brilliance and security.
Summer Jewelry Storage Tips
When traveling:
- Store pieces individually to prevent scratches.
- Use a travel jewelry case.
- Never leave jewelry on a hotel bathroom counter.
- Keep valuable jewelry in a hotel safe when not wearing it.
- Remove jewelry before applying sunscreen at the beach.
Give Your Jewelry a Mid-Summer Refresh
Even with great care, summer leaves its mark. A professional cleaning removes sunscreen buildup, lotions, everyday dirt, and residue that home cleaning often misses. It's also the perfect time to have your jewelry inspected for loose stones, worn prongs, and signs of everyday wear before they become costly repairs.
At Venus Jewelers, our expert jewelers provide professional jewelry cleaning, inspections, repairs, polishing, rhodium plating, ring sizing, stone tightening, and restoration—all completed in-house, so your jewelry never has to leave the store.
Whether it's your engagement ring, a family heirloom, or your everyday favorites, we'll have it looking like new again.Visit Venus Jewelers in Franklin Township, NJ, and let our team help keep your jewelry shining through every season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wear my engagement ring in a swimming pool?
It's not recommended. Chlorine can gradually weaken precious metals, and cold water can cause rings to slip off your finger more easily.
Does sunscreen make diamonds look cloudy?
Yes. Sunscreen, lotions, and oils can leave a film on diamonds that reduces their brilliance until they're cleaned.
Is salt water safe for gold jewelry?
Occasional exposure isn't usually harmful, but salt residue can contribute to wear over time. Always rinse jewelry with fresh water after visiting the beach.
Which gemstones should never go in a pool?
Opals, pearls, turquoise, and emeralds deserve extra care around chlorinated water and harsh chemicals.
How often should I have my jewelry professionally cleaned?
For jewelry worn daily, especially engagement rings, professional cleaning and inspection every six months is ideal, with at least one comprehensive inspection each year.
Venus Jewelers is a family-owned fine jewelry and luxury watch store in Somerset, NJ, serving New Jersey since 1979. With more than 5,000 five-star reviews and certifications through the American Gem Society and GIA, Venus Jewelers is a trusted destination for pre-owned and new luxury timepieces throughout Central New Jersey.
940 Easton Avenue, Suite 11B • Somerset, NJ 0887
(732) 247-4454 • venusjewelers.com