Guide
What is waterproof jewellery?
Waterproof jewellery is made to be worn through real life — showers, sweaty commutes, sea swims and handwashing — without dulling, discolouring or losing its shine. Here is what the term actually means, why so much jewellery fails the test, and how to pick pieces that last.
Why ordinary jewellery tarnishes
Tarnish is a chemical reaction, not wear and tear. When moisture and air reach the metals underneath a piece's surface — often copper, nickel or other base metals — they slowly oxidise, leaving a dull or darker finish. Everyday products speed this up: perfume, sunscreen, hand cream, chlorinated pools and even the natural oils on your skin all play a part.
That same reaction is what can turn skin green. It is not an allergy in most cases — it is base metal residue rubbing off onto the skin. Cheaper "gold-look" pieces often have only a whisper-thin coating, which wears through quickly and exposes the reactive metal beneath.
What makes a piece waterproof?
A waterproof piece is built so that water never gets to the metals that react. That comes down to two things: a protective finish that resists moisture and sweat, and enough quality gold in that finish that it does not simply rub away after a few weeks. The result is jewellery you can wear continuously — in the shower, at the gym, on holiday — without needing to take it off and baby it.
"Waterproof" and "water-resistant" are not the same. Water-resistant pieces shrug off a splash or a rainy day; truly waterproof pieces are made for constant contact with water. If you never want to think twice about wearing a necklace, look for the stronger claim — and for tarnish-resistant alongside it, which is what stops the dulling that water alone can cause.
Everyday care, the easy way
Good waterproof jewellery asks very little of you. A few small habits will keep any piece at its best for longer:
- Wear it in the shower, but give it a quick pat dry afterwards.
- Rinse with fresh water after sea or pool swims, then dry.
- Put perfume and creams on first, jewellery on second.
- Store pieces dry and apart so they do not scratch each other.
OHMEIN: made to be lived in
Every OHMEIN piece is waterproof and tarnish-resistant, finished in gold and designed for everyday wear — necklaces you sleep in, earrings you forget you're wearing, bracelets that survive the school run. Each order arrives in our signature gift box, ready to wear, gift and love for years, and UK delivery is free and takes 1–3 working days.
If you are new to wearing jewellery every day, our full collection is the best place to start — and if you would like to know more about the brand behind the pieces, read our story.