Swimming With Wedding Rings: Is It Safe?

There are many differing opinions on whether or not it is safe to swim with your wedding ring on. Some people choose to keep their rings on at all times, including when swimming, while others prefer to remove their rings to avoid potential damage or loss. While pure gold, platinum, and palladium are not affected by chlorine, alloy metals such as those found in low-carat gold are susceptible to corrosion and discolouration when exposed to chlorine and other chemicals. Additionally, the prongs that hold diamonds in place can be loosened by chlorine, making it easier for the diamond to fall out. Swimming in cold water or in the ocean can also cause rings to slip off due to shrinking fingers, and salt water can make diamonds appear cloudy.

Can I swim with my wedding ring on?

Chlorine pools can damage your ring

While it is tempting to want to show off your wedding ring, it is not advisable to wear it when swimming in a chlorinated pool. This is because chlorine can damage your ring in several ways.

Firstly, chlorine can corrode the alloy metals in gold rings, including nickel, zinc, copper, and silver. If your ring is made of pure gold, platinum, or palladium, however, it will not be affected by chlorine.

Secondly, chlorine can negatively interact with any treatments that have been applied to your diamond, causing it to lose its shine and lustre.

Thirdly, the chemicals in chlorinated pools can loosen the prongs that hold your diamond in place, making it easy for the diamond to fall out of the ring.

Finally, chlorine can cause discolouration of precious stones surrounding your diamond, reducing the ring's value and beauty. Turquoise, pearls, and other natural stones are also known to dry out after prolonged contact with water and chemicals.

Therefore, it is recommended to remove your ring and store it safely before swimming in a chlorinated pool. You can buy a ring holder or small jewellery case to keep your ring safe while you swim. If you do choose to wear your ring in the pool, it is a good idea to have it professionally cleaned afterwards to restore its lustre and ensure the prongs are secure.

Saltwater can make diamonds look cloudy

It is not recommended to wear your wedding ring when swimming, especially if it is in a pool or the ocean. While pure gold is a precious metal that cannot be harmed by chemicals, alloy metals such as those found in 10-carat, 14-carat, and 18-carat gold are highly susceptible to damage when exposed to chlorine and other chemicals. The chlorine can corrode the alloy metals in your ring, dulling its shine and causing discolouration. Additionally, the water can make your ring more prone to slipping off your finger, and you risk losing it.

However, if your ring is made of pure gold, platinum, or palladium, then you can wear it into the pool without worrying about chlorine damage. If you do choose to wear your ring while swimming, it is a good idea to have it professionally cleaned afterward to remove any chlorine, oil, soap residue, or grime that may have built up.

Now, to address the issue of saltwater making diamonds look cloudy. While saltwater itself does not make diamonds look cloudy, there are a few factors to consider that may affect the appearance of your diamond ring after swimming in the ocean. Firstly, the ocean water and the chemicals in sunscreen can discolour the metal and stones in your ring. This can cause the ring to lose its value and beauty. Additionally, if your diamond has inclusions or a certain chemical composition, it may appear cloudy or hazy. Strong or very strong fluorescence in a diamond can also cause it to look oily or milky.

To avoid any potential damage or discolouration to your diamond ring, it is best to remove it before swimming in the ocean and store it safely. If you do choose to wear your ring in the ocean, be sure to have it professionally cleaned afterward to remove any saltwater, sunscreen, or grime buildup.

Your ring may slip off in water

Swimming with your wedding ring on can be risky as it can easily slip off your finger and get lost. When your hands are submerged in water for a long time, your fingers can shrink, and if your ring is already a loose fit, it may fall off without you noticing. This is especially true if you're swimming in cold water, such as in the ocean or a cold pool, as the low temperature can cause your fingers to shrink even more. The risk of your ring slipping off is also higher if it hasn't been properly secured, for example, if the prongs that hold the diamond in place are loose.

If you're going to be in or around water, it's best to leave your ring at home or locked safely in your car or a locker. If you must bring it with you, store it in a secure place, such as a small jewellery case or a ring box, rather than leaving it unattended in your bag or a purse pocket, where it could be stolen. You could also ask a trusted friend to keep an eye on it while you swim.

If you're concerned about not being able to show off your ring, consider taking photos of it to share with others or wearing it to other events where you won't be in the water. Remember, it's always better to be cautious and keep your valuable jewellery safe!

Softer metals are vulnerable to saltwater

Swimming with your wedding ring on is not recommended, especially if it is made of softer metals. While pure gold is a precious metal that cannot be harmed by chemicals, alloy metals are highly susceptible to damage when exposed to chlorine and other chemicals. Low-carat metals such as 10-carat, 14-carat, and 18-carat gold contain other metals such as nickel, zinc, copper, and silver. These alloy metals corrode when exposed to harsh chemicals like chlorine. Therefore, it is best to avoid wearing your engagement band into the pool if it contains any of these alloy metals.

Saltwater poses an even greater threat to metals. The high concentrations of salts, primarily sodium chloride, create an electrolyte solution when dissolved in water. This solution facilitates the electrochemical reactions that lead to metal corrosion. The combination of moisture, oxygen, and salt damages metal worse than rust. Saltwater corrodes metal five times faster than freshwater, and salty, humid ocean air causes metal to corrode ten times faster than air with normal humidity.

The effects of saltwater on metal are further exacerbated by the presence of oxygen, resulting in a particularly hostile environment for most metals. One form of corrosion that occurs when metal and saltwater come together is called electrochemical corrosion. Metal ions dissolve in water, and saltwater conducts electricity and contains ions that attract ions from other compounds. During electrochemical corrosion, electrons from other compounds are attracted to the metallic ions, and saltwater attacks the metal, resulting in corrosion.

Anaerobic corrosion is another type of corrosion that occurs when metal is exposed to saltwater for an extended period. This type of corrosion leaves deposits that contain sulfates and surround the metal as it sits in saltwater. Hydrogen sulfide is produced, which then corrodes metals. At the same time, bacteria grow in the saltwater and use the hydrogen to further corrode the metal.

To prevent the corrosion of metal in saltwater, it is essential to rinse the metal completely in freshwater after removing it from saltwater. Dry the metal thoroughly, especially in crevices and pockets where saltwater can linger. To store metal that regularly sits in saltwater, keep it submerged completely in oil, antifreeze, or kerosene.

Sunscreen can dull the sparkle of your ring

Swimming with your wedding ring on is generally not recommended, as it increases the risk of losing or damaging your ring. However, if you choose to keep your ring on while swimming, it is essential to be aware of the potential impact on its sparkle and shine. Sunscreen can be particularly detrimental in this regard.

The lotion in sunscreen can get stuck underneath the gemstone and in the prongs of your ring, creating a grimy and dull appearance over time. Oil-based ingredients in sunscreen can form a film-like layer on your ring, diminishing its brilliance. This residue can accumulate, requiring professional cleaning to restore the original shine.

To avoid sunscreen damage to your wedding ring, it is advisable to remove the ring before applying sunscreen. You can put the ring back on once the sunscreen is fully absorbed and your skin is dry. However, if you plan to swim, it may be safer to leave the ring at home or in a safe, especially if you're heading to the ocean or a pool. Alternatively, consider wearing a wristband with zip pockets to keep your ring secure.

If you accidentally get sunscreen on your ring, there's no need to panic. You can try a DIY cleaning solution by gently scrubbing the ring with a soft toothbrush, mild dish soap, and warm water. For more intensive cleaning or if the DIY method doesn't work, consult a professional jeweller for a thorough cleaning and inspection.

In addition to the sunscreen issue, swimming with your ring also carries the risk of it slipping off and getting lost, especially in water-related activities. The cold water can cause your finger to shrink, making it easier for the ring to slide off. Taking off your ring before swimming and storing it safely can help prevent this issue.

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