We’ve all seen the promises: waterproof, sweatproof, lifeproof. Jewellery designed to be worn everywhere - in the shower, at the gym, in the sea on holiday. The claim is that these pieces will never fade or tarnish. It has become one of the biggest selling points for modern jewellery brands: pieces that will last a lifetime.
So what is 'waterproof' jewellery?
Waterproof jewellery is made from stainless steel coated in a layer of gold using a process called Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD). It sounds very technical, and it is. The jewellery is put into a vacuum chamber where the gold is heated until it becomes a vapour. That vapour bonds to the surface of the steel, creating a thin gold coating designed to be more durable than traditional gold plating.
However, waterproof jewellery isn’t just gold coloured pieces. Many brands also create silver 'waterproof' jewellery using polished stainless steel without any gold coating at all. These silver pieces are popular for their durability, low maintenance and modern look.
The result is usually either a gold coated or silver toned piece of stainless steel that is fairly resistant to daily wear. But despite the marketing, it’s important to remember what sits underneath that finish: stainless steel. And while PVD plating is durable, no plated jewellery lasts forever.
Is it hypoallergenic?
Hypoallergenic is essentially a buzz word for marketing and has no real definition. All it means is that the majority of the population would not have an adverse reaction to wearing the piece of jewellery. And for many people, stainless steel jewellery is perfectly safe to wear.
However, stainless steel does contain nickel within its core. Nickel improves durability and corrosion resistance which is definitely a benefit for ‘lifeproof’ jewellery!
The outside of the jewellery is covered in a layer of chromium which doesn’t allow metal ions to escape. In good quality made pieces, this protective layer keeps the nickel safely contained.
But, this protective layer won’t last forever. Scratches, sweat, salt water, chlorine and perfumes can gradually wear down the protective layer over time. For people with nickel allergies, this may allow trace amounts of nickel to come into contact with the skin, triggering itching, redness and rashes.
So while PVD jewellery is suitable for most people, it may not be ideal for those with very sensitive skin or known nickel allergies.
So what are the pros of PVD coated stainless steel?
- It’s an affordable alternative to solid gold pieces. Gold jewellery without a high price tag.
- It’s great for consumers who want jewellery they can wear everyday without having to remove or clean it.
- It is durable and long lasting. With proper care, many pieces can maintain their appearance for around 12–18 months, sometimes longer depending on wear habits. Avoiding salt water and harsh chemicals can significantly extend the lifespan.
- Silver stainless steel waterproof jewellery has similar benefits too, it offers a sleek silver finish that is durable, resistant to tarnishing and easy to wear every day without constant maintenance.
Why is it marketed as 'lifeproof'?
We’re not really sure, the marketing department probably got a pat on the back for that one! But realistically, no jewellery is truly lifeproof. Even solid gold jewellery scratches, wears down, and requires maintenance over time.
Whether it’s gold PVD jewellery or silver stainless steel pieces, all jewellery will eventually show signs of wear with enough exposure to friction, chemicals and daily use.
Jewellery in many ways is becoming a fast moving fashion product. These brands market their products as trend led, so it’s likely they expect you to have disposed of it by the time the colour fades and moved onto a new piece.
Also, the markup on this jewellery is generally so massive, brands can comfortably offer replacements years down the line.
Is PVD plated jewellery precious?
Simply put, no. PVD jewellery contains only an extremely small amount of gold, with stainless steel making up the majority of the piece.
Silver coloured waterproof jewellery is also typically stainless steel rather than precious silver, despite often being marketed with luxury inspired styling.
As there is not enough precious metals, there is no value to the jewellery.
You are buying durability and convenience, rather than an heirloom quality piece. If you love the look of gold jewellery but don’t want to invest in solid gold prices, waterproof jewellery is a stylish and practical option.
What is the alternative?
Sterling silver or gold plated sterling silver!
If you want to know there’s some real value behind what you are buying, then gold plated sterling silver can give you that confidence.
Gold plating bonds gold to a base metal of sterling silver, generally using more gold in the process than PVD to get an even layer.
The drawbacks of gold plated silver are it needs more care - don’t wear it in the shower or swimming, avoid scratching and clean it gently with a microfibre cloth to remove surface oils. How long it lasts depends on the wear and the item, for occasional wear gold plated sterling silver can last years, for daily wear the plating will wear faster. Items with less skin contact last longer, for example earrings will always last longer than rings.
Final thoughts
PVD coated stainless steel jewellery is generally more durable than traditional fashion jewellery and can be a great everyday option for people who want affordable and low maintenance pieces.
But despite the bold marketing claims, it is still plated jewellery. It will eventually show signs of wear, particularly with heavy exposure to water, sweat, chemicals, and friction.
The best way to think about waterproof jewellery is this:
It’s designed to last longer, not forever.
