5 Everyday Habits That Damage Your Gold Jewellery (And How to Avoid Them)

Small daily habits — from swimming with rings on to storing pieces together — quietly wear down gold jewellery over time. Here is what to change.

Gold is resilient, but it is not indestructible. Chlorine, perfume, and everyday friction all take a toll on jewellery that is worn without much thought. A few small changes in habit can add years to the life and shine of your pieces.

Habits Worth Breaking

Swimming or bathing with jewellery on — chlorine and chemicals in tap water dull gold's finish and can weaken gold alloys over time
Applying perfume or lotion after putting jewellery on — residue builds up in settings and between chain links
Storing pieces in one box without separation — chains tangle and harder gemstones can scratch softer gold surfaces
Wearing rings while gardening, cleaning, or working out — this is the leading cause of bent prongs and dented bands
Skipping regular cleaning — a light film of everyday grime makes gold look older than it is

A Simple Routine

Wipe your jewellery with a soft, lint-free cloth after wearing it, and give chains and rings a gentle soak in lukewarm water with a drop of mild soap every few weeks. Store each piece separately in a soft pouch or lined box, and bring rings and chains in for a professional clean and inspection once or twice a year — it is the easiest way to catch a loose stone or worn clasp before it becomes a bigger problem.