Soaking Up the Sun: Tips for Safeguarding Your Jewelry During Summer

Summertime is here, bringing sunshine, hot weather, and outdoor adventures. It’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy quality time with loved ones and rejuvenate yourself through a refreshing vacation. However, amidst all the excitement, it’s important to note that summer can be harsh on your jewelry.

During summer, your jewelry is exposed to various risks and unsafe conditions due to activities like applying sunscreen, encountering sand, and swimming in pool water. Even traveling with your jewelry can pose its own set of dangers. Fortunately, there are simple steps you can take to safeguard your precious accessories and keep them radiant throughout the summer season. Read on to discover our top tips for protecting and preserving your jewelry’s beauty.

Tips for Safeguarding Your Jewelry During Summer

Whether you’re a beach lover or prefer lakeside retreats, summer activities can expose your jewelry to harsh elements or the risk of loss, which can dampen the fun. In addition to the daily activities that can potentially damage your jewelry, summertime poses specific risks to the safety and quality of your precious pieces.

Beach, Pool, and Lake Precautions

Water-related locations like beaches, pools, and lakes are popular choices for summer enjoyment. However, they are also notorious places where jewelry is often lost, damaged, or dirtied. If your jewelry slips off in a pool, you might be able to recover it if it doesn’t get caught in a drain. However, if it falls into the ocean or a lake, the chances of finding it in the deep waters are slim. Cold water can be especially problematic as it can cause your fingers to shrink, leading to loose-fitting rings.

This summer, it is highly recommended to remove your jewelry before entering the water. Keeping your jewelry in a safe and dry place can make all the difference between continuing to wear it or losing it forever.

Chlorine Consequences

In areas like Florida, pools are abundant, and chlorine is commonly used to maintain water safety. However, chlorine can significantly damage and discolor precious metals, including gemstones like diamonds. The finish and polish can be eroded by chlorine, resulting in a dull and dark appearance.

Sand and Saltwater Hazards

Beaches pose their own risks to jewelry, as saltwater and sand can cause damage and discoloration to metals. Rose gold, specifically, is highly susceptible to discoloration in saltwater due to its composition of gold and copper. Sand, with its abrasive nature, can scratch precious metals and loosen stones by getting trapped in the settings. Should you encounter such issues, KDadorn can assist in tightening stones and repairing any damage that may have occurred.

Dealing with Buildup

When enjoying outdoor activities this summer, bug spray is a common necessity to protect yourself from mosquitoes. However, it’s important to note that bug spray and jewelry don’t go well together. Residue from bug spray can quickly dull the sparkle of your jewelry. In such cases, a professional cleaning is recommended to restore its shine and brilliance. Similarly, sunscreen can also create unwanted buildup. While it’s crucial to protect your skin from harmful UV rays, it’s highly discouraged to apply or wear sunscreen while wearing your fine jewelry.

If you find yourself frequently dealing with buildup during the summer, it’s best to remove your jewelry before applying bug spray or sunscreen to avoid unnecessary damage.

Jewelry Care On-the-Go

Traveling is a highlight of summer for many, but it can pose challenges for your jewelry. When deciding what to pack, it’s important to consider the potential risks. Here are some tips to keep in mind before embarking on your journey.

Choose Wisely for Travel

First and foremost, decide whether it’s necessary to bring precious jewelry on your trip. Traveling increases the risk of misplacing or losing items. Select jewelry pieces that complement most or all of your outfits to minimize the chances of any mishaps.

If you do choose to pack your jewelry, avoid placing all the pieces in a single bag. Instead, pack them individually to prevent damage. Certain stones and materials are more durable than others, and storing them together may lead to scratches on softer materials like gold, pearls, or opals. For comprehensive guidance on storing jewelry at home and during travel, refer to our 3 best tips.

Secure Your Precious Jewelry

Never pack your jewelry in checked bags! If your jewelry holds monetary or sentimental value, it’s crucial to keep it in your carry-on bag to ensure its safe arrival at your destination. Checked bags can sometimes be lost indefinitely.

Once you’ve reached your destination, store your jewelry in a safe whenever possible. Avoid leaving it out in the open, where it can be mishandled, misplaced, or stolen. If needed, bring along a portable safe.

For added protection and peace of mind, consider obtaining jewelry insurance. While it can’t replace the sentimental value of your pieces, jewelry insurance can cover their monetary value in case of loss or theft. If you have questions about jewelry insurance or need an appraisal, we’re here to assist you through the decision-making process and provide appraisals.

Maintaining the Brilliance of Your Jewelry

At KDadorn, we’re dedicated to helping you keep your jewelry shining and secure. With our complimentary jewelry cleaning and inspections, you can trust that your jewelry is in capable hands. Regular care and maintenance enable you to identify any additional attention your pieces may require to restore them to their original condition. With over 35 years of experience, KDadorn is a trusted source for caring for your valuable jewelry.