How to care for gold-plated jewelry in summer
Summer is the toughest season for gold-plated jewelry: sweat, sunscreen, saltwater, and chlorine attack the gold layer more intensely than in winter. Anyone who wants to get their favorite jewelry through the summer without it tarnishing or fading just needs to know a few things. This guide explains summer care for gold-plated jewelry.
Why Summer is Particularly Aggressive for Gold Plating
In summer, several enemies of gold plating come together at once:
- Sweat: Contains salts and acids that can dissolve the gold layer.
- Sunscreen: Chemical UV filters can weaken the bond of the gold layer.
- Seawater: Sodium chloride accelerates the corrosion of metal alloys beneath the plating.
- Chlorine in the pool: One of the most aggressive substances for all gold platings.
- Heat: Increased temperature accelerates all chemical reactions.
The Summer Routine: Before Going Out
- Sunscreen first, then jewelry: Let sunscreen fully absorb (5–10 minutes) before putting on jewelry. Never apply sunscreen directly over jewelry.
- Perfume in the morning: If you're going out in the evening, apply perfume early enough for the alcohol to evaporate.
- Put on jewelry only at the door: Putting it on as late as possible avoids all pre-outing products.
At the Beach and Pool: Clear Rules
- Take it off before swimming: Always. No exceptions for gold-plated jewelry. Saltwater and chlorine destroy the gold layer within a few exposures.
- Store securely: Never leave jewelry unattended on a towel or beach chair while swimming – risk of theft. Keep it in a lockable pouch or zippered beach bag.
- After the beach: Even if you haven't swum – salty air settles. Wipe jewelry with a damp cloth after each beach day.
Wipe Daily: The Most Important Summer Habit
In summer: Take off jewelry every evening and wipe it with a soft dry or slightly damp cloth. Sweat and sunscreen residues that dry overnight are harder to remove and can damage the layer when wiped later. 30 seconds in the evening = weeks longer lifespan for the plating.
Which Jewelry Can Stay On in Summer?
Not all jewelry needs increased protection in summer:
- Stainless Steel 316L: Can stay on at the beach, in the pool, and in the shower – no problem.
- Real Yellow Gold 585/750: Robust against sweat and short contact with seawater. Rinse briefly and dry after swimming.
- Gold-plated jewelry: Handle carefully or replace with stainless steel alternatives for the beach.
Summer Strategy: Beach Set and City Set
Pro tip for summer: Have two jewelry sets. The Beach Set: Stainless steel or titanium – robust, affordable, can handle anything. The City Set: Your usual prettier jewelry for restaurants, going out, evenings without swimming. This separation protects your beautiful pieces and you still always have jewelry.
Summer-Friendly Jewelry at Corelune Jewellery
For the beach and the city – at Corelune Jewellery you'll find jewelry for every summer moment.
