Can You Shower with a Gold Chain?

There are reasons for not wearing some jewelry in the shower or generally exposing them to water, despite its convenience. It is important to look at the differing responses to chemicals and water a precious metal may have. Some gold can tolerate the water and chemicals used in the shower, whereas others will be damaged over time. Can you shower with a gold chain? Here are the facts:

Is it Safe to Shower with a Yellow Gold Chain?

14K and 18K gold chains are less likely to be damaged over time when exposed to chemicals in water. 24K gold, at the purest level is more sensitive to losing its sheen over time. For the most part, yellow gold can tolerate water but too much exposure to soap or other chemicals will eventually affect the shine. We recommend rinsing your jewelry thoroughly in the shower to remove any soap buildup and drying it so as not to leave watermarks on your yellow gold chain.

Can You Shower with White Gold?

The reason white gold has a bright finish to it is because it is often plated with rhodium (a platinum family of precious metals). This rhodium plating can react to chemicals such as chlorine in household water as well as swimming pools. This will directly cause tarnishing through oxidization over time, also making it more vulnerable to damage as the plating wears down. This will translate to the piece needing to be replated more often.

Therefore, it is strongly recommended not to shower or swim while wearing white gold chains, where water is or may be chlorinated.

Can You Shower with Silver Chains?

We know about whether you can shower with a gold chain. But what about silver? Sterling silver is a softer metal and is more likely to tarnish if exposed to water, again, especially when it contains chlorine. If continually exposed to water, it will darken in color over time. Even though it can be cleaned and polished, it is a better choice to keep silver chains out of water to extend their life and avoid tarnishing.

Is it Safe to Shower with Platinum?

One metal that is much more resistant to tarnishing or damage is Platinum, making it one of the most durable metals. Chlorinated water or plain water does not affect platinum chains at all. This makes it safe to wear in the shower and swimming pools. It is still advised, however, to clean and polish platinum chains regularly to keep them in top condition.

Other Factors to Consider

Durability is not the only factor to consider in the issue of showering with jewelry. Here are some other things to consider:

• Soap Residue: Chemicals in soap and shampoo can just deposit a film on the metals, giving it a duller appearance. This will require more detailed cleaning.      
• Tangles and Snags: another natural problem could simply be the chain itself getting tied up in hair which at times can be very difficult to untangle. This can put pressure on the chain risking breakage or warping.
• Water Hardness: some areas have harder water, containing higher calcium and magnesium levels. This too can leave deposits on your gold chain, causing a dull look.

Should You Remove Your Gold Chain Before Showering?

Can you shower with a gold chain or should you remove it prior to swimming in a chlorinate pool or showering?

• Yellow Gold and Platinum: generally safe to wear in water but occasional removal is still recommended for safe keeping.
• White Gold and Silver: generally advised against wearing in water.

For optimal care, take your gold chain off before hopping in the shower, regardless of the material, but if you must shower with your gold chain, we recommend 950 grade pure platinum or 14k and 18k solid yellow gold for best results.

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