We all love a refreshing dip in a pool or a relaxing soak in a hot tub, but before you dive in, there's one crucial step: take off your jewelry. While it might seem like a harmless indulgence, exposing your precious pieces to pool and hot tub chemicals can have disastrous consequences. Here's why:
Chlorine's Corrosive Kiss:
Chlorine, the primary disinfectant in pools and hot tubs, is a harsh chemical. While harmless to your skin in short bursts, it's a nightmare for most jewelry metals. Chlorine attacks the alloys mixed with gold and silver, causing microscopic cracks and weakening the structure over time. This can lead to:
- Stress corrosion cracking: This weakens the metal, making it brittle and prone to breakage.
- Discoloration: Chlorine can tarnish and dull the shine of your jewelry.
- Loose stones: The weakened metal can cause gemstone settings to loosen, leading to lost stones.
Hot Tub Heatwave:
Hot tubs take the damage to a whole new level. The high temperatures combined with chlorine create an even more aggressive environment for your jewelry. The heat accelerates the weakening process, leading to faster deterioration.
Beyond Chlorine:
Even saltwater pools and certain cleaning products contain chemicals that can damage your jewelry. The constant exposure to these harsh elements can permanently damage your precious pieces.
Protecting Your Investment:
Taking off your jewelry before swimming or soaking is a simple yet crucial step to ensure its longevity. It's better to be safe than sorry and avoid costly repairs or replacements down the line.
So, the next time you're preparing for a relaxing dip, remember: leave your jewelry sparkling on the shore and enjoy your swim worry-free!
Please check-out my post on how to keep your jewelry clean if you are noticing your jewelry tarnishing!
