Can You Shower with 18k Gold?

Okay, ladies, we've all been there. After a long day of turning heads with our glitzy 18k gold jewelry, the thought of taking it all off just for a quick shower seems... well, exhausting. But hold that thought! Before you sashay into that steamy bathroom with your precious bling, let's dish on what could really happen to your favorite gold piece. 


The Composition of 18k Gold:

Gold, a metal highly valued for its luster and malleability, has been used in jewelry throughout history. Its purity is often measured in karats, a term you've probably come across when purchasing jewelry.  So, what exactly does 18k gold mean?
 

Understanding Karats:

A karat (often abbreviated as 'k') is a measure of the purity of gold. Pure gold is denoted as 24 karats, meaning it's 100% gold. However, pure gold is soft, making it vulnerable to dents, scratches, and bends – not ideal for everyday jewelry.
 

Breaking Down 18k Gold:

18k gold means that out of 24 parts, 18 parts are pure gold, and the remaining 6 parts are made up of other metals. In terms of percentage, 18k gold is 75% pure gold alloyed with 25% other metals.
 

Alloy Metals:

The specific metals combined with pure gold in an 18k composition can vary, but they often include copper, silver, zinc, nickel, or palladium. The type and proportion of these alloy metals determine the final color and strength of the gold. For example: 
  • Yellow Gold: Achieved by alloying pure gold with copper and silver.
  • White Gold: This is gold combined with palladium, silver, and often a touch of platinum or nickel. It's often plated with rhodium to give it a bright white finish.
  • Rose Gold: A result of alloying gold with a significant amount of copper.
 

Why Choose 18k?

18k gold strikes a balance. It retains a rich gold appearance while gaining strength from its alloy metals, making it resistant to daily wear and tear. This resilience, combined with its inherent beauty, makes it a popular choice for rings, necklaces, bracelets, and other pieces expected to endure regular handling.


The Showering Dilemma:

Water in itself typically won't harm gold. However, the concern isn't just water. Modern-day showers have a myriad of products involved – from shampoos and conditioners to various types of soaps and body washes. These can contain chemicals and substances that might affect the alloy metals in 18k gold over prolonged exposure. Additionally, the hard water prevalent in many homes can lead to mineral buildup on jewelry, dulling its shine over time.
Potential Risks
  1. Physical Damage: Showers can be places of unseen dangers for jewelry. The rush of water, combined with the physical act of washing, might cause chains to snap or settings to become loose, leading to lost gemstones.
  2. Soap Scum: Over time, soap can leave a residue on the surface of 18k gold, diminishing its luster. This scum is not just unaesthetic but can be somewhat challenging to remove, especially from intricate designs.
  3. Potential for Loss: Perhaps one of the most overlooked concerns is the potential for loss. It's not uncommon for jewelry to slip off in the shower, heading straight down the drain.
  4. Abrasion and Wear: The consistent motion and friction between your jewelry and skin, or between different pieces of jewelry if they're worn together, can lead to abrasions on the metal. Over time, these tiny scratches can dull the finish of your 18k gold.
  5. Exposure to Chemicals: Beyond just soap, various shampoos, conditioners, and even somebody washes contain chemicals that can react with the alloy metals in 18k gold. Substances like sulfur, which can be found in some skincare products, might tarnish gold.
  6. Temperature Fluctuations: Drastic temperature changes can be detrimental. Hot showers can cause metals to expand and contract, especially when followed by a cool rinse or when stepping into a colder environment. Over time, these constant fluctuations can stress the metal and even alter the shape of jewelry, particularly delicate designs.
  7. Water Pressure: The force with which water hits the jewelry might not seem like much, but over repeated exposures, it can start to wear down the structural integrity of clasps and settings.
  8. The buildup of Residue: Apart from soap, hard water can leave behind mineral deposits. Over time, these can accumulate, leading to a piece that looks aged and lackluster. The nooks and crannies of intricate designs are especially vulnerable, where these residues are harder to clean.
  9. Allergic Reactions: Some people have sensitivities or allergies to certain metals commonly used in 18k gold alloys, such as nickel. The combination of these metals, the moisture from the shower, and body soaps can exacerbate allergic reactions, leading to skin irritations.
  10. Impact on Gemstones: If your 18k gold jewelry is adorned with gemstones, showers can affect them too. Not all gemstones react well to water and soap. Porous stones like pearls, opal, or turquoise can absorb water and chemicals, which can weaken them or alter their appearance.
 

Aftercare:

Showering in jewelry, especially 18k gold, isn't ideal, but if it happens, don't panic. Here's what you should do post-shower to ensure your jewelry remains in good condition:
  1. Dry Immediately: As soon as you're out of the shower, gently pat the jewelry dry using a soft, lint-free cloth. This step is crucial to remove any water residues that might speed up tarnishing or lead to mineral buildup.
  2. Clean Gently: Prepare a lukewarm solution of mild dish soap and water. Dip a soft-bristle brush or cloth into the solution and gently scrub your jewelry to remove any soap scum, shampoo, or conditioner that might have settled on it. This will also help remove any oils from your skin that may have transferred to the jewelry during the shower.
  3. Rinse and Dry: Rinse the jewelry under lukewarm water to wash off any soap residues. Ensure all cleaning solution is removed to avoid leaving any residues. After rinsing, gently pat dry using a clean, soft cloth.
  4. Air Out: Let your jewelry sit out in a dry, well-ventilated area for a few hours to ensure any trapped moisture evaporates.
  5. Inspect for Damage: Look over your jewelry closely. Check if any gemstones have become loose or if the setting seems altered. If you spot any issues, it's wise to visit a jeweler for a professional assessment.
  6. Store Properly: Once you're certain your jewelry is completely dry, store it in a cool, dry place. Ideally, it should be kept in a soft cloth bag or a jewelry box with separate compartments to prevent scratches.
  7. Reduce Frequency: It's essential to make it a habit not to wear jewelry in the shower. However, if you occasionally forget, following the above steps will mitigate any potential damage. But remember, the less exposure to shower conditions, the better.
  8. Regular Maintenance: It's always good to have regular check-ups for your jewelry. If you've showered in your 18k gold jewelry multiple times, consider getting it professionally cleaned and inspected periodically.

Conclusion:

Showers, though a place of relaxation and rejuvenation for us, can be quite the battleground for our precious 18k gold jewelry. Understanding these potential risks is crucial if you wish to maintain the beauty and durability of your adornments. The sparkle of well-maintained gold jewelry is unmatched, and with a bit of care, it can shine brightly for generations.