Can Real Gold Get Wet?

While a gold chain might not be your go-to accessory for a swim meet, life sometimes leads us into situations where jewelry and water collide. Whether it's a sudden rain shower, a high-intensity sweat session, or an impromptu pool plunge, you might wonder if your gold jewelry can handle the wet adventure.

Is it safe for your gold pieces to come in contact with water? How much water can they handle without harm? And if the worst happens, what steps should you take to ensure your jewelry's longevity? Fear not, for we've got all the answers you need to stay savvy when it comes to water and your cherished gold jewelry.

I. Gold and Water:

When rain clouds gather, many folks stash their gold jewelry to avoid potential damage. However, here's the scoop: water alone doesn't spell doom for your gold pieces. It's generally safe for gold jewelry to encounter water.

Surprisingly, gold ranks among the least reactive elements on the periodic table. When it mingles with oxygen, it doesn't rust or corrode. So, if your treasure is solid gold, don't sweat a little rain or a splash from clean water – it's not likely to cause harm.

However, it's quite likely that your gold piece is actually a gold alloy, a blend of gold and another metal. Pure 24k gold is often rare due to its price, so many opt for 10k, 14k, or 18k alternatives. These variations contain a portion of solid gold mixed with metals such as sterling silver or stainless steel.

Here's the twist: when these companion metals come into contact with water and mingle with oxygen, the risk of rusting goes up. Rust tends to form when iron (or an iron alloy) meets oxygen and moisture over an extended period. It's not an instant process but rather takes its time to unfold.

So, the bottom line is this: if your gold gets wet, don't panic. Just make sure you dry it off promptly to prevent any potential reactions from occurring.

a. Chlorine: A Foe to Gold

Ordinarily, water isn't much trouble for any type of gold jewelry, as long as you dry them after getting wet. However, when it comes to chlorine found in pools, spas, and hot tubs, it's a whole different ballgame. Think of chlorine as gold's version of kryptonite.

Chlorine initiates a chemical reaction when it encounters gold, leading to a breakdown of the alloys within the pieces over time. Continuous exposure to chlorine can even cause your jewelry to fall apart unless it's solid gold. And just to clarify, this reaction mostly affects the other metal alloys in a piece, not so much the gold itself. So, if you're sporting a 24k pendant, ring, or bracelet, you're in the clear – it's not something to fret about.

However, it's important to note that bringing a 24k gold piece into a pool or spa increases the risk of losing it. So, it's wise to consider removing it whenever you have the chance.

b. Tap Water: The Surprisingly Sneaky Element

When it comes to the everyday liquid that flows readily from our faucets, tap water seems pretty harmless. Yet, in the realm of gold jewelry care, it has subtle tricks up its sleeve.

While tap water itself isn't a gold ruiner, it can still pose challenges. The composition of tap water can vary widely depending on your location, and some tap waters contain minerals and impurities that, over time, might leave unwanted residue on your jewelry. These residues can dull the shine and affect the overall appearance of your gold pieces.

One common issue is the buildup of calcium deposits, often referred to as "hard water" stains. These deposits can accumulate on your jewelry, creating a cloudy or filmy look that detracts from its beauty. Additionally, some tap waters contain trace amounts of chlorine or other chemicals used in water treatment, which can react with your jewelry and potentially lead to tarnishing.

c. Salt Water: A Gentle Yet Relentless Adversary

When it comes to gold jewelry, water is usually not a formidable foe – just make sure to dry your pieces after they get wet. However, the story changes dramatically when it involves salt water, like the kind found in oceans and seas. Think of salt water as the subtle adversary of gold.

Unlike chlorine, salt water doesn't initiate a dramatic chemical reaction with gold. Instead, it's a gradual process, like a quiet wave eroding a shore. The high salt content in seawater can gradually wear down the surfaces of your gold jewelry. It's a bit like a gentle, persistent sanding effect that can dull the shine and even cause scratches over time.

Moreover, salt water can hasten the tarnishing process, particularly for metals like silver that are often used in alloys with gold. The combination of salt and moisture accelerates the chemical reactions that lead to tarnish, leaving your pieces looking less than splendid.

d. Humidity: The Stealthy Threat to Shiny Gold

Humidity, the invisible moisture that hangs in the air, might not seem like a major concern at first glance. But for your beloved gold jewelry, it can quietly pose a threat.

When the air is humid, it contains more moisture than usual, and this moisture can interact with the metals in your jewelry. For gold, the risk lies in tarnishing. Humidity can speed up the chemical reactions that lead to tarnish formation on gold alloys, which are a common choice due to their durability and affordability.

Humidity also plays a role in the gradual breakdown of metals over time. It might not cause immediate harm, but prolonged exposure can lead to weakened jewelry settings or structural changes, affecting the overall integrity of your pieces.

e. Sweat: Unintentional Stress for Your Gold Jewelry

Sweat, the natural result of physical activity or hot weather, might not seem like a major concern. However, for your prized gold jewelry, it can actually be a source of unintended stress.

The composition of sweat includes not only water but also various minerals and chemicals that can affect different metals, including those in your jewelry. When sweat comes into contact with gold alloys, like 14k or 18k gold, it can lead to tarnishing or even cause a dark residue to develop on the jewelry's surface.

Moreover, the acidity levels in sweat can vary from person to person, and this acidity can contribute to the tarnishing process. So, while it's perfectly normal for your body to perspire, its impact on your gold jewelry is something to consider.

To minimize the effects of sweat on your jewelry, take off your pieces before engaging in rigorous physical activities or spending extended periods in hot and humid conditions. After wearing your jewelry, gently wipe it down with a soft cloth to remove any sweat residue and moisture, ensuring it's stored clean and dry.

II. How to Keep Gold Dry:

When your gold pieces come in contact with moisture, there are some proactive steps you can follow to safeguard their look and durability over time.

a. Use Soft Cloths

As soon as you return home after braving the rain, it's a good idea to gently dry your piece to stave off any potential rust. To ensure you're not harming the metal, opt for a soft microfiber cloth, which will prevent any accidental scratches.

Despite gold's impressive resistance to chemical reactions, it's actually quite soft compared to many other metals. This makes it susceptible to physical damage if it comes into contact with abrasive materials. Stick to a soft cloth and avoid exerting excessive pressure.

b. Store Your Pieces Properly:

Perhaps you own a few pieces that don't see daylight often. If you store them improperly, you're essentially exposing them to humidity and other external elements that can easily mar your cherished gold jewelry.

Opting for jewelry boxes is a smart move since they come lined with gentle materials that prevent your gold pieces from scratching or colliding. This precaution helps ward off physical damage. However, the spot where you place your jewelry box matters too.

For best results, choose a dry area within your home to house your jewelry. Bedrooms generally provide lower humidity levels compared to spaces that lack sunlight, like basements or closets. This way, you can keep your gold gems safe from the moisture in the air.

III. Properly Cleaning Your Gold:

When it's time to give your gold pieces a little refresh, it's natural that they'll get wet. However, there's a right way to go about it that ensures cleanliness while extending the lifespan of your treasures.

Start by crafting a solution using lukewarm water and mild dish soap. Steer clear of harsh cleaners like degreasing dish soap or bleach, which can easily blemish your pieces and do more harm than good.

Gently place your visibly soiled jewelry into the solution and let it sit for approximately one to three hours. Once the soaking time is up, remove the piece and rinse it under clean water to wash off any lingering soap residue. Finally, use a microfiber cloth or a towel to thoroughly dry the item before returning it to its designated storage spot.

IIII. Dealing with Tarnished Gold: 

If water or chlorine has left your gold piece looking less than lustrous, it might be time to seek assistance from a jeweler for repairs. Jewelers can renew your piece by applying a fresh layer of gold over the tarnished areas, restoring its former shine. They could also mend minor cracks and dents, bringing back their original splendor.

In Conclusion:

While the prospect of dampening jewelry might worry many, the truth is that a touch of water typically won't cause any harm. Water alone doesn't directly impact jewelry, but it's the gradual oxidation process over time that can lead to certain alloys tarnishing or rusting.

This effect is mostly seen in gold alloys, such as 18k gold, which consists of a blend of gold and another metal. On the flip side, 24k solid gold doesn't react to water or various chemicals in the same manner as alloyed gold does. To play it safe, remember to gently pat your jewelry dry with a soft microfiber cloth whenever it gets wet. Plus, storing it in a secure, dry spot will go a long way in ensuring your jewelry stands the test of time. Thanks for reading!