Summer Jewelry Care: How to Protect Silver, Brass, and Steel + Tips for Pieces That Survive Hot Days

Summer is a time of sun, salty water, and spontaneous trips. But the very thing we love most about summer is what puts the most strain on our jewelry. Sweat, chlorine, sunscreen, and high humidity can do wonders to metals - and not in a good way!
If you want your favorite pieces to stay beautiful all summer long, I have some tried-and-true tips for you - including recommendations for jewelry that can handle summer adventures without any damage.

Why does jewelry suffer more in the summer?

Heat and humidity accelerate oxidation. Salt water and chlorine react with metals, sunscreen and sweat leave a film that reduces shine. In other words – summer is a test of endurance. But with a few simple tricks, you can handle it.

The most common myths that can cost you your jewelry in the summer:

1. “Waterproof” gold-plated jewelry
Gold plating is a surface treatment – beautiful, but it's still just a thin layer. Yes, there are high-quality technologies that make the gold plated layer last for years and years (I use such materials too), but it still applies: no piece of jewelry is indestructible. Water, sweat, sand or chemicals accelerate wear. It is important to know what makes up the base layer of the jewelry! If the base layer is stainless steel, gold plating usually holds very well, but if the base layer is brass, do not swim with the jewelry and take it off while doing sports and so on.

2. "Solid gold jewelry, can take anything and it won't get damaged"
Not really. Gold is more durable than silver, but still soft compared to steel. With constant wear, it quickly scratches and loses its shine. Chlorine is definitely harmful to it, especially if it is white gold with a rhodium-plated surface. In general, gold can really withstand a lot, but I look at it this way, a piece of jewelry that I invest in and/or is also a rarity with emotional value for me, should be handled and worn with care and love.

3. "Toothpaste is great for cleaning silver"
Toothpaste is abrasive. It might not hurt your jewelry right away, but over time it can cause micro-scratches and tarnish the surface even more. For a safe method, try a special silver cleaning cloth.

How to care for silver jewelry

Silver is beautiful but sensitive. It can tarnish more quickly in the summer – especially when in contact with skin and moisture.
What works:
✔ Remove silver pieces before swimming, playing sports or sunbathing.
✔ Polish them gently with a silver cloth every now and then.

✔ For stronger oxidation (especially on intricately shaped jewelry and hard-to-reach areas), use a silver cleaner. There are many options available on the market, but be careful to choose the right product if your jewelry is set with stones or pearls. You can use a gentle cleaning solution for delicate jewelry with semi-precious stones and pearls from the Connoisseurs brand.

✔ Store them in a sealed bag with an anti-tarnish strip - this will slow down the oxidation.
✔Do not use toothpaste and an old toothbrush for cleaning, you will only scratch the silver.

Brass and its natural patina

Brass has a beautiful warm hue, but it reacts with sweat and water more than silver – and this creates its characteristic old gold patina. This is not a defect, it is part of its story. But it can be restored to its original shine:
✔ After wearing, wipe it with a dry cloth, you can also use a silver cleaner (also works on brass) or a brass and bronze cleaner.
✔ You can use vinegar and a pinch of salt for a deep clean. Always rinse and dry your jewelry thoroughly after cleaning.
✔ Avoid swimming pools and the sea – brass prefers dry adventures.

Stainless steel – the star of the summer

If you're looking for a piece of jewelry that can withstand almost anything, this is the material for you. Surgical steel is resistant to water, sweat, and chlorine, and when combined with gold plating, it maintains its beautiful finish for months. However, remember that even though gold plating on stainless steel holds up well, it's still just a surface finish and can wear off over time. Stainless steel is great because:
✔ No rust.
✔ No special maintenance needed.
✔ Just wash it occasionally in lukewarm water with a drop of soap and polish it with a soft cloth.

How to protect jewelry on vacation

Yes, I know, it's tempting to have your favorite pieces on the beach. But it's really not worth destroying expensive, valuable, or our favorite jewelry. Salt, sand, and chlorine have no mercy.
If you want to wear your jewelry in the water, go for stainless steel—it's durable, affordable, and can handle summer adventures without too much damage. But jewelry isn't a swimsuit—it needs a little respect if you want to wear it for years.

• After swimming in the sea or pool, rinse them with clean water and wipe dry, never leave your jewelry wet.

• Apply sunscreen before putting on your jewelry – and let it soak in thoroughly.

• Perfumes, hairsprays, and jewelry don't go together – styling first, adornments next.

• When traveling, keep a jewelry pouch and a soft cloth with you – they will save the day.

The best jewelry for summer from my workshop

When you know that summer will be action-packed, reach for steel pieces - they are durable and still beautiful, here are a few tips for jewelry that you can currently find on sale :

Fold Steel Ring

Delicate gold-plated earrings with pearls

Chain earrings with freshwater pearls

Gold-plated baroque pearl necklace 

Summer is about freedom – and for your jewelry too. A little care is all it takes to keep it looking its best. If you’re looking for pieces that can handle everything from the beach to an evening drink, check out my collection of steel jewelry. They’ll be your uncompromising companions.

Have a beautiful summer day!

Mya