Chlorine and Your Jewelry: What You Need to Know

Chlorine is one of the most common — and most surprising — causes of jewelry damage. It’s in pools, hot tubs, cleaning products, and even some tap water. Over time, chlorine can weaken the metal in your jewelry, especially gold.

When gold is exposed to chlorine, it can cause the metal to become brittle. Prongs can weaken, settings can loosen, and stones can fall out. Even white gold and platinum aren’t immune.

If you wear your jewelry every day, it’s easy to forget to take it off before getting into a pool or hot tub. But a few minutes in chlorinated water can do more damage than years of normal wear.

How to protect your jewelry:

• Remove rings before swimming or using cleaning products
• Rinse jewelry with clean water if it’s been exposed
• Have prongs and settings checked regularly
• Bring in pieces that feel loose or look dull

A little care goes a long way — and can save you from costly repairs down the road.