Australian life is hard on jewellery. Salt water, chlorine, sunscreen, humidity and sweat all take their toll on metal and stones. The good news is that a few simple habits keep your pieces looking new for much longer. Here is our easy jewellery care guide, made for Aussie summers.
What does "waterproof jewellery" really mean?
Many of our pieces are made from stainless steel with a gold or silver finish, and are described as waterproof. That means they handle everyday water, like washing your hands, a shower or a sweaty day, much better than standard plated costume jewellery, and they will not turn your skin green. Even so, any finish lasts longer when you limit contact with harsh things like chlorine, salt water, sunscreen and perfume. Think of waterproof as tough, not indestructible.
The golden rule: last on, first off
Put your jewellery on after sunscreen, moisturiser, perfume and hairspray have dried, and take it off before you swim, hit the gym, clean or go to bed. This one habit prevents most dull spots and scratches.
At the beach and the pool
- Chlorine is the biggest enemy of shine, so take jewellery off before you jump in the pool.
- After a swim in the ocean, rinse your pieces in fresh water and dry them well.
- Sand acts like sandpaper on polished surfaces, so avoid rubbing sandy hands over your rings and bracelets.
How to clean your jewellery
- Fill a small bowl with lukewarm water and a drop of mild, unscented dish soap.
- Soak the piece for a few minutes.
- Gently clean with a very soft toothbrush, paying attention to clasps and the back of stone settings.
- Rinse in clean water and pat completely dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.
Avoid toothpaste, bleach, baking soda and abrasive polishing cloths on plated pieces, as they can wear away the finish. For pearls, simply wipe with a soft, slightly damp cloth: never soak them.
How to store your jewellery
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Keep pieces apart: store each item separately so chains do not tangle and stones do not scratch metal.
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Hang your necklaces: a stand like the Evangeline wooden necklace rack or the Faye organiser tower keeps chains tangle-free.
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Use a dish for daily pieces: a small tray like the Estelle shell tray by the bed or sink stops rings and studs getting lost.
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Keep it dry: bathrooms are humid, so store your collection in a bedroom drawer or a closed box such as the Eva rotating organiser with a dust cover.
Caring for men's jewellery
Chains and bracelets worn every day pick up sweat and cologne. Wipe them after the gym or a hot day, take them off before surfing or swimming, and store chains hanging or flat. Read more in our men's jewellery guide, or keep his pieces tidy in the Emilia watch and jewellery box.
Travelling with jewellery
Pack each piece in its own small pouch or a compartment box, fasten necklace clasps before packing, and keep valuable items in your carry-on rather than checked luggage.
Quick care checklist
- Last on, first off
- No pool, gym or bed while wearing jewellery
- Rinse after the beach, then dry well
- Wipe with a soft cloth after wearing
- Store pieces separately, away from humidity
Keep your collection organised
Browse our jewellery organisers to give every piece its own place, or discover new necklaces, earrings, bracelets and men's jewellery. Every order ships free across Australia.
Questions about a specific piece? Email us at support@marliva.com.
How to Care for Your Jewellery in Australia: Sun, Salt, Sweat and Storage
Australian life is hard on jewellery. Salt water, chlorine, sunscreen, humidity and sweat all take their toll on metal and stones. The good news is that a few simple habits keep your pieces looking new for much longer. Here is our easy jewellery care guide, made for Aussie summers.
What does "waterproof jewellery" really mean?
Many of our pieces are made from stainless steel with a gold or silver finish, and are described as waterproof. That means they handle everyday water, like washing your hands, a shower or a sweaty day, much better than standard plated costume jewellery, and they will not turn your skin green. Even so, any finish lasts longer when you limit contact with harsh things like chlorine, salt water, sunscreen and perfume. Think of waterproof as tough, not indestructible.
The golden rule: last on, first off
Put your jewellery on after sunscreen, moisturiser, perfume and hairspray have dried, and take it off before you swim, hit the gym, clean or go to bed. This one habit prevents most dull spots and scratches.
At the beach and the pool
How to clean your jewellery
Avoid toothpaste, bleach, baking soda and abrasive polishing cloths on plated pieces, as they can wear away the finish. For pearls, simply wipe with a soft, slightly damp cloth: never soak them.
How to store your jewellery
Caring for men's jewellery
Chains and bracelets worn every day pick up sweat and cologne. Wipe them after the gym or a hot day, take them off before surfing or swimming, and store chains hanging or flat. Read more in our men's jewellery guide, or keep his pieces tidy in the Emilia watch and jewellery box.
Travelling with jewellery
Pack each piece in its own small pouch or a compartment box, fasten necklace clasps before packing, and keep valuable items in your carry-on rather than checked luggage.
Quick care checklist
Keep your collection organised
Browse our jewellery organisers to give every piece its own place, or discover new necklaces, earrings, bracelets and men's jewellery. Every order ships free across Australia.
Questions about a specific piece? Email us at support@marliva.com.