Summer jewelry must be chosen with care to withstand summer conditions. Brazilian bracelets and stainless steel jewelry stand out for their sturdiness in the face of water, while beads and shell jewelry add a summery touch without fear of humidity. Choose these options for on-trend style without compromising on durability.
In summer, you want to wear it all: gold necklaces, piles of bracelets, bohemian anklets... Yes, but here's the thing: between the chlorine in the pool, the salt in the sea, the sun creams, the sand, the heat, the acidity of your skin when you sweat, you can't spare your favorite jewelry! They could tarnish or even deteriorate.
What's that? Horror! Should we go without necklaces, earrings, rings or bracelets all summer long?
Don't worry! You can still wear your jewelry this summer on the beach: you just have to choose the right ones, some of which are more suitable and more resistant. But which ones? Here's a roundup of waterproof costume jewelry.
Before choosing your materials, it's best to understand the risks. Water alone is not always the problem. What damages your jewelry is often a combination of several elements:
925 Sterling Silver and plated jewelry are particularly vulnerable. If you plan to splash around regularly, it's best to leave them in the checkroom, and opt for the alternatives below.
The Brazilian bracelet is summer's great champion. Made from braided cotton thread, it's not afraid of seawater, swimming pools or sand. It wears over time, which is normal, but it holds up much better than any clasp bracelet.
What we also like: you can make it anywhere, even on the beach. A few threads, a little patience, and you've got an original and economical piece of costume jewelry. Remember to vary the colors and add beads to personalize your creations.
Tip: customize your Brazilian bracelets with chains, studs or charms for an even more summery look.
Want jewelry you can keep even in the shower? Stainless steel is your best ally. Hypoallergenic, resistant to oxidation and corrosion, it withstands seawater and chlorine without flinching. Particularly 316L stainless steel.
Two options are available:
A word of caution: rinse your jewelry in clear water and wipe with a soft cloth after bathing to preserve its shine over the long term. And choose 304L or 316L steel, the most resistant grades for jewelry.
Good news for bead enthusiasts: many beads are water-resistant. Here are some you can use without hesitation for your beach jewelry:
For on-trend surfer necklaces, opt for accumulations of synthetic Heishi rondelles: colorful, lightweight and resistant.
đź’ˇ Our tip: for beaded jewelry, opt for braided nylon thread: strong, flexible, quick-drying and moisture-resistant / Waxed polyester thread: very durable, UV and water resistant / Stainless steel wire: excellent for necklaces and bracelets with beads, highly wear-resistant.
Seashells come from the sea, so they feel right at home there! Cowries, spirals, the eye of St. Lucia or the eye of Shiva are naturally resistant to salt water.
These elements lend themselves to magnificent bohemian creations:
The advantage? Their unique shape and iridescent sheen add character to all your handmade costume jewelry, without the risk of humidity.
Macramé jewelry made with waxed thread (such as Linhasita thread) is inherently waterproof. This resin-coated thread repels water and resists wear and tear.
It's the ideal material for anklets and beach bracelets. In summer, when ankles are uncovered, it's the perfect opportunity to show them off with pretty micro-macramé anklets, perhaps adorned with cowries or Heishi beads.
An added bonus: waxed thread is easy to knot and requires no clasps. Ideal for DIY beginners!
If there are some materials to favor in summer, there are others to keep away from salt or chlorinated water. Here they are:
Yes,stainless steel (304L or 316L) is resistant to seawater and chlorine. We recommend rinsing with fresh water after swimming to preserve its shine.
No, not really. Chlorine and salt accelerate the tarnishing of 925 Sterling Silver. It can even blacken with repeated exposure. Remove them before bathing.
Yes, no problem. Cotton yarn doesn't fear water. It will eventually wear out over time, but this is due to use, not humidity.
Choose synthetic Heishi beads, Bohemian glass beads and Miyuki Duracoat. Avoid porous gemstones and natural cultured pearls exposed to chlorine.
Not if they're made from waxed yarn(Linhasita, for example). This thread is waterproof. On the other hand, a macramé made from raw cotton yarn may stretch if regularly wet.
A simple rinse with clean water is all that's needed for most hard-wearing materials. Dry before storing to avoid salt and chlorine residues.
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