The Truth about Saltwater, Chlorine and Fine Jewelry

Jewelry Care for Salt, Sun & Pool Days
We get it - you love wearing your jewelry. So do we. But just like sun-kissed skin and tousled hair, your fine jewelry deserves a little extra care during the summer months. Whether you’re oceanfront, poolside, or on a weekend hike, here’s what to know to keep your pieces looking their best all season long.

Gold vs. Platinum: Saltwater & Chlorine

Sun, sand, and saltwater make for dreamy summer moments—but they can be tough on fine metals.

Did you know? Sand is made of tiny crystal fragments. Its rough texture can scratch both metal and gemstones, especially on polished surfaces.

Gold (particularly lower karats like 10k or 14k) contains more alloys, which can make it more susceptible to corrosion, dulling, or long-term wear in salty environments.
Platinum, being denser and purer, is more resistant - but not immune. With repeated exposure, it can still develop a soft patina or surface wear.

Chlorine, found in pools and hot tubs, is even harsher. It’s especially reactive with gold, weakening the metal structure over time—particularly in white gold alloys.
Platinum holds up better chemically, but it can still lose luster or compromise settings over time.

The honest truth? Swimming with fine jewelry isn’t ideal - but life happens. And when it does, we’re here to help you care for what you love.

CTWF Summer Jewelry Tips

Beach or pool day? Just be mindful.
Fingers tend to shrink in cool water, which can make rings easier to slip off. If you're heading out for a dip, consider leaving your most precious pieces at home—or at least storing them safely.

Apply SPF before putting on your jewelry.
Sunscreen and lotion can build up on diamonds and metal, dulling their sparkle over time. A quick rinse and polish goes a long way in keeping things shining.

Sweat sessions? Skip the sparkle.
Workouts like weightlifting, rock climbing, or even yoga can put pressure on your hands and rings. Removing your jewelry helps prevent unnecessary strain on prongs and settings.

Traveling? Secure your pieces.
Store your jewelry in the hotel safe or thread rings on a durable chain around your neck when you need to take them off on the go. Peace of mind is worth it.

Protect your investment.
We recommend insuring your jewelry through providers like Jewelers Mutual or BriteCo—or checking with your home or renters policy for coverage.

Let Us Help Your Jewelry Last a Lifetime

At CTWF, we don’t just make beautiful pieces - we help you take care of them for years to come. Whether you’ve worn your ring on every beach trip or it just needs a refresh, our in-house services keep your pieces in top condition:
- Prong tightening and setting checks
- Professional cleaning and polishing
- Rhodium plating for white gold
- Secure repairs and resizing

Need a tune-up? Come by the studio or book a service appointment—we’ll get your sparkle back in no time.