Can You Wear 925 Sterling Silver in Salt Water?

When it comes to pure silver jewellery, many people wonder whether it’s safe to wear pieces like a gemstone necklace, a peridot silver necklace, or sterling silver drop earrings while swimming in the ocean. The beauty of 925 sterling silver lies in its durability, versatility, and shine, but salt water can have a noticeable impact on it.

What Happens When Sterling Silver Meets Salt Water?

Sterling silver is made of 92.5% pure silver mixed with 7.5% other metals, usually copper. While this blend strengthens silver, it also makes it more prone to tarnishing. Salt water contains minerals and chloride that can speed up the tarnishing process, leaving your nickel-free silver pieces dull or discoloured over time.

This doesn’t mean you can never wear silver near the ocean — but frequent exposure to salt water can shorten the life of your favourite hypoallergenic silver jewellery.

Should You Wear Gemstone Silver Jewellery in the Ocean?

Pieces like a peridot necklace, opal stone earrings, or a delicate gemstone silver jewellery set can be more vulnerable than plain silver designs. Salt water may not only affect the silver but also damage porous gemstones, loosening their setting.

If you own statement designs such as wings of grace earrings or an elegant sterling silver design necklace, it’s better to keep them away from the beach to protect their shine and structure.

Tips to Protect Your Sterling Silver Jewellery

• Remove before swimming – Whether it’s a lead free silver necklace or sterling silver drop earrings, it’s best to take them off before entering the sea.
  
• Rinse with fresh water – If your jewellery does come into contact with salt water, rinse it immediately with clean water and dry it with a soft cloth.
  
• Polish regularly – Using a gentle polishing cloth will help keep your silver jewellery shining.
  
• Store properly – Keep your nickel-free jewellery in airtight pouches or anti-tarnish boxes when not in use.
  

Everyday Elegance Without Worry

Your everyday elegance jewellery pieces, like a peridot silver necklace or classic sterling silver design bracelet, can last for years if cared for properly. While salt water won’t destroy sterling silver instantly, avoiding regular exposure is the best way to maintain its beauty.

So, the answer is yes you can wear 925 sterling silver in salt water occasionally, but if you want your jewellery to remain radiant, it’s wiser to take it off before your beach adventures.