The Ultimate Jewellery Care Guide for Hot Weather

Summer brings sunshine, holidays and longer days, but it also brings challenges for keeping your jewellery looking its best. Heat, humidity, sweat and exposure to lotions or sunscreen can all take a toll on gold-filled chains, bracelets and rings. At Au Jewellers, we want your pieces to look as good as the day you bought them, so we have created this ultimate care guide to protect your jewellery during the hotter months.

Why Hot Weather Affects Jewellery

Hot weather often means spending more time outdoors, whether it is at the beach, on a holiday or just enjoying sunny days in the city. However, the combination of heat and moisture can affect jewellery in several ways:

• Sweat: Natural body oils and sweat can leave a residue on your chains or bracelets, dulling their shine.
• Sunscreen and lotions: Many skincare products contain chemicals that can coat jewellery and cause a cloudy film.
• Saltwater and chlorine: Swimming in the sea or pool can harm metal finishes over time if not cleaned quickly.
• Humidity: Warm, damp air can increase tarnishing or create unwanted build-up, especially if jewellery is not cleaned properly.

By taking a few simple steps, you can prevent these problems and keep your gold-filled jewellery looking pristine.

Daily Care Tips

• Wipe after wearing: Always use a soft, lint-free cloth to wipe your jewellery after a day out in the heat. This helps remove sweat, oil and sunscreen residue.
• Store it safely: Keep your pieces in a soft jewellery pouch or box when not in use to prevent scratches and exposure to humidity.
• Avoid chemicals: Remove jewellery before applying sunscreen, lotions or sprays. Wait a few minutes before putting your pieces back on.
• Keep it dry: If you get caught in the rain or take a dip in the pool, dry your jewellery thoroughly with a clean cloth.

Cleaning Your Jewellery

A regular cleaning routine is essential during the summer months:

1. Warm soapy water: Mix mild dish soap with warm water and soak your jewellery for a few minutes. Use a soft brush, such as a toothbrush, to gently clean between links.
2. Rinse and dry: Rinse your jewellery with clean water and dry it with a soft, non-abrasive cloth.
3. Polish: For extra shine, use a jewellery polishing cloth. Avoid harsh cleaners or abrasive products, as these can damage the surface of gold-filled jewellery.

Travelling with Jewellery

When you are travelling on holiday, a few extra precautions can go a long way:

• Use a travel case: Store your chains, bracelets and rings in a protective case with separate compartments to avoid tangling or scratches.
• Pack minimal pieces: Bring versatile items, such as a 6mm Rope Chain or 10mm Cuban Chain, that can match multiple outfits without the need for many accessories.
• Remove before swimming: Always take off jewellery before going into the sea or pool to prevent exposure to salt or chlorine.

Choosing Jewellery for Hot Weather

Some pieces are easier to wear in the heat than others. Slim chains like a 4mm Rope Chain or Belcher Chain at 20 inches are lightweight and comfortable for everyday summer styling. On the other hand, chunky pieces such as a 15mm Cuban Chain may be best saved for cooler evenings or events where you are not as exposed to heat and sweat.

Protecting Gold-Filled Jewellery

Gold-filled jewellery is designed to be more durable than gold-plated alternatives, but it still needs care. Avoid wearing your gold-filled chains or bracelets during intense activities that cause excessive sweating, and always give them a quick clean after a long day. Regular maintenance will ensure they retain their shine and colour for years to come.

Storage Matters

Humidity can build up even indoors during summer, so proper storage is important:

• Keep jewellery in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
• Use anti-tarnish strips or silica gel packs in your jewellery box to absorb excess moisture.
• Hang chains separately or lay them flat to avoid tangling, especially for longer 24-inch or 30-inch styles.

Looking after your jewellery in hot weather does not have to be complicated. With simple habits like wiping your pieces after use, storing them properly and cleaning them regularly, you can keep your gold-filled chains, bracelets and rings looking flawless all summer long.

At Au Jewellers, we design jewellery that stands out and lasts, but even the highest-quality pieces need a little care to maintain their brilliance. Whether you are wearing a slim 6mm Rope Chain or a bold 20mm XL Rope Chain, these tips will help you keep your collection in perfect condition.