Most of us have a story about a pair of earrings that turned green after one monsoon, or a chain that left a mark on the neck by the end of a long day. That is exactly why waterproof jewellery has become one of the most searched jewellery terms in India. But what does “waterproof” actually mean for gold plated jewellery – and can you really shower, swim and work out in it?

Here is an honest guide, from the team that designs every piece at Sorele.

What makes jewellery waterproof?

Water itself does not damage gold. What damages cheap jewellery is the metal underneath the gold. Brass, copper and mixed alloys react with water, sweat and air – they oxidise, the plating lifts, and the piece darkens or turns your skin green.

Waterproof jewellery solves this at the base. At Sorele, most of our gold-tone pieces are 18K gold plated over stainless steel. Stainless steel does not rust or oxidise the way brass does, so the gold layer stays bonded to a stable metal. The result is jewellery that is waterproof, anti-tarnish and made for everyday wear.

Can you shower in waterproof jewellery?

Yes. Water alone will not harm a well-made waterproof piece. The bigger risks in the shower are actually soap, shampoo and conditioner, which can leave a film that dulls the shine over time. If you keep your jewellery on, simply rinse with plain water at the end and pat dry.

Can you swim in it?

Sea water and pool water are tougher than tap water because of salt and chlorine. Our waterproof pieces can handle a beach day or a dip in the pool – just rinse them in fresh water afterwards and dry them with a soft cloth. If you swim every day, take them off; repeated chlorine exposure is hard on any plating, even on fine gold.

Can you wear it to the gym?

Sweat is mildly acidic and salty, which is exactly what makes alloy jewellery tarnish. Stainless steel handles it well, which makes waterproof pieces ideal for workouts, yoga and long commutes. Small, close-fitting styles like stud earrings, huggie hoops and dainty bracelets are the most comfortable to move in.

Waterproof vs anti-tarnish – are they the same?

They are related but not identical. Anti-tarnish means the piece resists darkening when exposed to air and moisture. Waterproof means it can get wet without being damaged. A good everyday piece should be both – which is why you will see both words on our gold plated and platinum plated jewellery.

How to make waterproof jewellery last for years

• Perfume and lotion first, jewellery last. Chemicals are harder on plating than water.
• Rinse after the sea or pool, then dry with a soft cloth.
• Avoid harsh cleaners – no toothpaste, bleach or abrasive polish.
• Store pieces separately in a pouch so they do not scratch each other.
• Take rings off for heavy work like lifting weights or scrubbing, where friction wears plating fastest.

Where to start

If you are building an everyday collection you never have to take off, start with the pieces you wear most:

• Waterproof gold plated earrings – studs, hoops and huggies
• Waterproof gold plated necklaces – dainty chains made for layering
• Waterproof gold plated rings – stackable bands and solitaires
• Everyday wear edit – our team's picks for all-day comfort

Frequently asked questions

Does waterproof jewellery fade?

All plating wears gradually with friction, but a stable stainless steel base slows this down a lot. With the simple care above, waterproof gold plated jewellery keeps its colour far longer than alloy jewellery.

Is waterproof jewellery safe for sensitive skin?

Stainless steel is well tolerated by most people with sensitive skin because it does not corrode against the skin. If you have a known metal allergy, start with a small piece like a stud and see how your skin responds.

Are all Sorele pieces waterproof?

Our 18K gold plated and platinum plated pieces are waterproof and anti-tarnish. Fabric pieces, watches and some pure 925 silver pieces are not marketed as waterproof – check the product page for each piece.