Aquamarine is a beautiful gemstone known for its calming blue-green hues. It’s a popular choice for jewelry, but many people are unsure whether they can wear it in the shower. After all, water and soap can be harsh on some gemstones, leading to damage or discoloration. So, can you wear aquamarine in the shower? Let’s find out.
Diving into the Properties of Aquamarine: What Makes It So Special?
Aquamarine is a variety of the mineral beryl, which also includes emeralds. It’s a relatively hard gemstone, ranking 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, which means it’s durable and resistant to scratches. However, aquamarine is also sensitive to heat, chemicals, and sudden changes in temperature, which can cause cracking or discoloration.
Making a Splash: Exploring Aquamarine’s Unique Color and Clarity
Aquamarine gets its name from the Latin words aqua marina, meaning “seawater.” It’s known for its pale blue to greenish-blue hues, caused by iron traces in the crystal structure. Some aquamarines may also have a slight gray or yellowish tint.
The Shower Conundrum: Can Your Aquamarine Jewelry Handle It?
Aquamarine is a relatively straightforward gemstone, with few inclusions or flaws. However, some stones may have visible inclusions or “cloudiness,” affecting their overall appearance and value.
Can You Wear Aquamarine in the Shower?
The short answer is yes, you can wear aquamarine in the shower, but it’s not recommended. Here’s why:
Aquamarine and Water
Aquamarine earrings are generally resistant to water, but prolonged exposure can cause damage over time. Water can seep into the tiny cracks and fissures in the gemstone, leading to discoloration, cloudiness, or even cracking. Additionally, soap and shampoo can leave residues on the stone, dulling its shine and clarity.
Aquamarine and Temperature
Aquamarine is also sensitive to sudden changes in temperature, which can cause stress fractures or cracking. This means that if you wear your aquamarine jewelry in the shower and then expose it to hot or cold temperatures, such as by placing it under running water or in front of a heater, it could be damaged.
Aquamarine and Chemicals
Many household chemicals, such as cleaning products and beauty products, can be harsh on gemstones. If you wear your aquamarine jewelry in the shower, it could be exposed to soaps, shampoos, and other chemicals that could damage it over time.
How to Care for Aquamarine Jewelry
If you want to keep your aquamarine jewelry looking its best, it’s best to avoid wearing it in the shower. Instead, follow these tips to care for your jewelry:
Store Your Jewelry Properly
When you’re not wearing your aquamarine jewelry, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid storing it with other jewelry or in a drawer where it could get scratched or damaged.
Clean Your Jewelry Regularly
To keep your aquamarine jewelry looking its best, clean it regularly with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid using any harsh chemicals or cleaners, which could damage the gemstone. You can also take it.
A Sea Change: Alternatives to Wearing Aquamarine in the Shower
If you’re a fan of aquamarine jewelry but want to avoid wearing it in the shower, there are plenty of alternatives to consider. Here are some ideas:
Wear Your Jewelry After Showering
One of the easiest ways to protect your aquamarine jewelry from the harsh effects of shower water is to simply wear it after you’re done showering. This way, you’ll still be able to enjoy your jewelry without worrying about damage from water, soap, or shampoo.
Opt for Waterproof Jewelry
Another option is to invest in jewelry that’s specifically designed to be worn in water. There are many types of waterproof jewelry available, from silicone bracelets to stainless steel necklaces, that can withstand exposure to water, soap, and other chemicals.
Choose a Different Gemstone
If you’re concerned about the potential damage to your aquamarine jewelry, consider wearing a different gemstone instead. There are plenty of other gemstones with similar colors and properties to aquamarine, such as blue topaz or blue sapphire, that may be better suited for wearing in the shower.
Switch to Synthetic Aquamarine
If you’re determined to wear aquamarine in the shower, consider switching to a synthetic version of the gemstone. Synthetic aquamarine is created in a laboratory, which means it’s often more durable and resistant to damage than natural aquamarine.
Embrace Alternative Accessories
Finally, if you’re not keen on the idea of wearing jewelry in the shower, consider alternative accessories that can still showcase your love of aquamarine. For example, you could wear an aquamarine hair accessory, like a hair clip or headband, or carry an aquamarine keychain or purse charm.
In conclusion, there are many alternatives to wearing aquamarine jewelry in the shower. Whether you choose to wear your jewelry after showering, invest in waterproof jewelry, switch to a different gemstone, or embrace alternative accessories, there are plenty of ways to showcase your love of aquamarine without risking damage to your jewelry.
