Can I Shower with Silver Earrings?
You must not shower with silver earrings. It can damage them and cause tarnishing which will ruin jewelry looks. It should be done with other jewelry items as well like bracelets, bangles and rings etc.
In this article, you will read can I shower with silver earrings and what to do if you accidentally shower with these.
Why You Should Not Shower with Your Silver Earrings
Pure silver, also known as fine silver, is too soft for everyday wear, so it is often alloyed with other metals to increase its durability. The most common alloy is sterling silver, which consists of 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper. This combination enhances the strength of the silver while maintaining its lustrous appearance.
This addition of copper can change the metal’s reaction to water and other environmental factors. Copper, for instance, is more prone to oxidation and can accelerate the tarnishing process. Therefore, the presence of copper in sterling silver means that the jewelry may tarnish more quickly when exposed to moisture and certain chemicals.
Tarnish is a thin layer of corrosion that forms on the surface of silver when it reacts with sulfur-containing substances in the air or water. This reaction results in a dull, grayish-black coating that can diminish the beauty of the jewelry.
Risks of Showering with Silver Earrings
While it may be tempting to leave your silver earrings on while showering, there are several potential risks to consider.
1. Tarnishing and Discoloration
As mentioned earlier, exposure to water, especially tap water with high mineral content, can lead to a faster tarnishing and discoloration of silver earrings. Tarnish not only affects the appearance of the jewelry but can also be challenging to remove. Regular exposure to water and chemicals can cause the tarnish to build up over time, making it more difficult to restore the earrings’ original shine.
2. Scratching and Surface Damage
The abrasive nature of some shower products, such as exfoliating scrubs, can scratch the surface of silver earrings. These scratches can accumulate over time, leading to a dull and worn appearance. Additionally, the physical movement of showering, such as rubbing your ears with a washcloth, can also cause scratches and damage to the earrings.
3. Skin Irritation and Allergic Reactions
Wearing silver earrings in the shower can also increase the risk of skin irritation and allergic reactions. Silver jewelry contains copper which can be a cause of turning your skin green or some allergic reactions. Combination of water, soap, and shampoo can also create a moist environment that may irritate the skin around the ear piercing.
4. Loosening of Gemstones
Silver jewelry often comes with gemstones like cubic zirconia or others. With increasing exposure with water and washing chemicals like shampoos, these stones are going to lose their grip and will eventually fall off.
What If You Shower with Your Silver Earrings Accidentally
If you accidentally shower with your silver earrings, there are several steps you can take to minimize the risks and protect your jewelry.
1. Immediately Dry After Showering
Make sure to dry your earrings thoroughly. Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently pat the earrings dry, paying special attention to any crevices or intricate details. The longer water comes in contact, the more damage you can expect. Yes, it will not get any noticeable damage in one time but repeated incidents will damage it more significantly.
2. Avoid Using Abrasive Materials
Avoid using abrasive materials, such as paper towels, which can scratch the surface of the silver. Linen or velvet cloths can be good.
3. Clean if Tarnishing is Developing
If you see any noticeable tarnishing being developed, immediately wash jewelry. Use a mild silver cleaner or a solution of warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap to gently clean the earrings. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the silver. After cleaning, rinse the earrings thoroughly with clean water and dry them with a soft cloth.
4. Store It Properly
Proper storage is crucial to prevent tarnishing and damage to your silver earrings. Store them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and humidity. Consider using an anti-tarnish pouch or a jewelry box with anti-tarnish lining to protect the earrings from exposure to air and moisture. Additionally, store each pair of earrings separately to prevent them from scratching each other.
When Is It Okay to Shower with Silver Earrings?
It is never recommended to shower with silver jewelry. But if your silver jewelry does not have any gemstones or you are planning to buy a new one and don’t intend to use it in future, then it can be okay to shower with silver jewelry.
Note that showering with your silver jewelry is always going to damage it.
Conclusion
Showering with wearing silver earrings may be convenient, but it is essential to be aware of the potential risks, such as tarnishing, scratching, and skin irritation. By taking off your earrings or whatever jewelry you are wearing, you can easily enhance your jewelry’s shelf life. This will not only allow jewelry pieces to be useable for longer times, but also intact their glamour and shine.