Is Sterling Silver Waterproof? The Truth About Water Exposure & Care

Is Sterling Silver Truly Waterproof?

Let's start with the simple answer: No, sterling silver is not completely waterproof. While pure silver is highly resistant to corrosion, sterling silver contains 7.5% other metals (typically copper) that make it more vulnerable to moisture.

That said, brief exposure to water won't immediately ruin your sterling silver jewellery. The key word here is "brief" – a splash while washing hands or a light rain shower is generally fine if followed by proper drying.

It's prolonged or repeated exposure that can lead to tarnishing, discolouration, and potentially damage the metal over time. The good news? With proper care, your silver pieces can handle everyday life beautifully.

How Water Affects Your Sterling Silver

Understanding what happens when sterling silver meets water helps you better protect your precious pieces:

• Tarnishing: Water, especially when combined with air, can accelerate the natural oxidation process that causes tarnish (that dark discolouration on silver).
• Mineral Deposits: Hard water contains minerals that can leave spots or residue on your silver jewellery.
• Chemical Reactions: Chlorinated water (pools) and salt water are particularly harsh, as they contain chemicals that actively react with the metals in sterling silver.
• Setting Damage: Water can loosen adhesives used in some jewellery settings, potentially causing stones to fall out over time.

The copper alloy in sterling silver is particularly susceptible to these effects, which is why proper care is essential for maintaining your earrings, necklaces, and other silver treasures.

Navigating Everyday Water Exposure

Daily life inevitably brings your sterling silver into contact with water. Here's how to handle common situations:

Hand Washing

Ideally, remove your bracelets and rings before washing hands. If that's not practical, be sure to:

• Use mild soap (harsh soaps can accelerate tarnishing)
• Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue
• Pat dry completely with a soft cloth

Kitchen Tasks

It's best to remove all silver jewellery before cooking or washing up. Food acids, cleaning products, and prolonged exposure to water can all affect your silver. Your beautiful anklets and bracelets deserve a break during these tasks!

Rain Exposure

Getting caught in the rain? Don't panic! Simply dry your jewellery thoroughly once you're inside. Use a soft, lint-free cloth and make sure to reach all crevices and details.

Swimming and Showering: The Biggest Risks

These two activities pose the greatest water-related risks to your sterling silver:

Swimming Pools & Hot Tubs

Always remove your sterling silver before entering pools or hot tubs. Chlorine is extremely damaging to silver and can cause permanent discolouration and pitting that no amount of polishing can fix.

Ocean & Sea Swimming

Salt water is equally harmful to sterling silver. The salt accelerates tarnishing and can even corrode the metal over time. Your beautiful gold anklets or gold bracelets may be better options for beach days.

Showering

Daily showers expose your jewellery to:

• Prolonged moisture
• Soaps and shampoos (which can leave residue)
• Hot water (which can accelerate chemical reactions)

For these reasons, we recommend removing all sterling silver jewellery before showering. This simple habit significantly extends the life and beauty of your pieces.

Spotting Signs of Water Damage

How can you tell if water has affected your sterling silver? Look for these indicators:

• Darkening or yellowing beyond normal tarnish (especially uneven colouration)
• White residue or spots (often from mineral deposits in hard water)
• Green or blue-green discolouration (copper in the alloy reacting with moisture)
• Pitting or small holes in the surface (from prolonged exposure to chlorine or salt water)
• Loose stones or settings (water can weaken adhesives over time)

Catching these signs early allows for easier cleaning and restoration, keeping your Ella & Eve jewellery looking its best.

What to Do After Water Exposure

If your sterling silver has been exposed to water, follow these steps to minimise potential damage:

1. Dry Immediately: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to thoroughly dry the piece. Pay special attention to crevices, chain links, and areas around stones.
2. Remove Residue: If you notice any soap or product residue, gently clean with a cloth dampened with distilled water, then dry again.
3. Air Dry Completely: Leave the piece in a well-ventilated area (not the bathroom) to ensure all moisture evaporates.
4. Polish If Needed: If you notice slight tarnish beginning to form, use a silver polishing cloth to restore shine.
5. Store Properly: Once completely dry, store in an anti-tarnish bag or airtight container.

For pieces that have been exposed to chlorine or salt water, a more thorough cleaning may be necessary. A mild soap solution and soft brush can help remove harmful residues.

More Water-Resistant Silver Options

If you're looking for silver jewellery with better water resistance, consider these options:

Rhodium-Plated Sterling Silver

Many of our sterling silver earrings and necklaces feature rhodium plating – a thin layer of rhodium (a platinum group metal) that provides:

• Enhanced tarnish resistance
• Better protection against water exposure
• A bright, white finish that maintains its lustre

While rhodium plating offers additional protection, it's still best to follow the same care guidelines to maintain the plating's integrity.

Gold Vermeil Options

For those who love water activities but want the silver look, our gold necklaces and gold earrings collections offer more water-resistant alternatives while maintaining elegant style.

Essential Care Tips for Sterling Silver Longevity

Beyond water protection, these care practices will help your sterling silver jewellery last for years:

• Regular Cleaning: Gently clean your pieces with a silver polishing cloth every few weeks, even if they don't appear tarnished.
• Proper Storage: Store in anti-tarnish bags or lined jewellery boxes away from bathroom humidity.
• Rotation: Wearing your silver regularly actually helps prevent tarnish, as the natural oils in your skin create a protective barrier.
• Chemical Awareness: Remove jewellery before applying perfumes, lotions, hairsprays, and cleaning products.
• Professional Cleaning: Consider a professional cleaning once a year for pieces with intricate details or precious stones.

Remember: The small effort of proper care yields beautiful rewards in the lasting shine of your sterling silver.

Discover the Ella & Eve Collection

Now that you understand how to protect your sterling silver from water damage, why not explore our stunning collection? Each piece is crafted with care and designed to be both beautiful and lasting.

From delicate necklaces that frame your face to elegant bracelets that catch the light with every gesture, our sterling silver collection offers timeless pieces for every style.

And don't forget our special offer: Buy one piece and get 50% off your second! It's the perfect opportunity to build a collection that suits all occasions – whether you need water-resistant options for active days or stunning silver for special moments.

Each Ella & Eve purchase includes our complimentary gift box and bag – perfect for proper storage and protection from moisture when not being worn.