How to Protect Your Jewellery This Summer

Summer is one of the most beautiful seasons to wear jewellery — gold catches the light differently, natural stones seem to glow, and there's something about bare skin and a single well-chosen piece that feels effortless. But summer also brings heat, salt water, sunscreen, and chlorine: four things your jewellery would rather avoid.

Here's how to keep your pieces looking their best all season long.

Leave it behind at the beach

We know — a gold ring looks beautiful against a tan. But sand is abrasive, salt water is corrosive, and the combination of both accelerates tarnishing and can loosen stone settings over time. Our advice: choose one simple piece you're comfortable wearing, and leave the rest safely at home. Your most precious pieces will thank you.

Sunscreen and jewellery don't mix

This one surprises a lot of people. Sunscreen, lotions, and oils create a film on metal surfaces that dulls their shine and, over time, can damage certain natural stones — particularly porous ones like turquoise, opal, or pearl. The rule is simple: put your jewellery on last, after your skincare and sun protection have been fully absorbed.

Chlorine is your jewellery's enemy

Swimming pools are one of the fastest ways to damage both silver and gold. Chlorine reacts with metal alloys, weakening them and causing discolouration that's difficult to reverse. Always remove your jewellery before getting into a pool, hot tub, or spa — no exceptions.

Heat and direct sunlight affect natural stones

Prolonged exposure to intense heat or direct sunlight can cause certain gemstones to fade, crack, or lose their colour over time. Stones like amethyst, rose quartz, and some opals are particularly sensitive. If you're spending a long day outdoors, consider leaving your stone pieces at home and opting for plain gold or silver instead.

Clean gently after a summer day

Even if you've been careful, summer heat makes us sweat — and sweat is mildly acidic. A quick, gentle wipe with a soft dry cloth at the end of the day goes a long way. For a deeper clean, use a soft brush with lukewarm water (never hot) and mild soap, then dry thoroughly before storing.

Store with intention

Don't toss your jewellery into a bag or leave it on a bedside table in a warm room. Summer heat increases humidity, which accelerates tarnishing — especially in silver. Store each piece separately in a soft pouch or an airtight bag, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

Don't forget your annual check-up

Summer is actually the perfect time to take your jewellery in for a professional inspection. Heat, sand, and activity can loosen prong settings and clasps without you noticing. A quick check-up every six to twelve months ensures that a small issue doesn't become a lost stone — or a broken chain in the middle of your holiday.

"Your jewellery is made to last a lifetime. A little care in summer means it will still be with you for every season that follows."