Is Jewelry Actually Waterproof?

Let’s talk about a topic that’s often marketed in the jewelry industry: “waterproof jewelry.” We see it everywhere and get asked about it all the time. Here’s the little secret: there’s no such thing.

In reality, even solid gold jewelry isn’t technically waterproof. Sure, it won’t fade, but salt water, chlorine, and chemicals can slowly eat away at gold at a molecular level.

When it comes to plated jewelry marketed as “waterproof,” it usually means the plating is done extremely well. For silver jewelry, enough micron layers are added to achieve “vermeil” level, and sometimes even heavier. The same applies to brass.

To enhance durability further, a good manufacturer will add e-coating to seal in the plating. In the case of stainless steel, a proper PVD coating provides extra protection.

Using these techniques, your jewelry will be more resistant to tarnishing, fading, and more “waterproof” or “sweatproof”. Ultimately, “waterproof” jewelry is more of a marketing term than a scientific fact. But with the right manufacturing techniques and coatings, you can offer products that stand the test of time and satisfy your customers.

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