The best ways to preserve their shine during a heatwave

When temperatures rise, our habits change: swimming, days at the beach, sun exposure, sunscreen, perspiration… Yet, we rarely think about the impact of summer on our jewelry.

Whether made of natural stones, pearls, or precious metals, jewelry is also sensitive to summer conditions. Repeated exposure to salt, chlorine, UV rays, or heat can dull its shine and accelerate wear and tear.

At Perles Rares Djonou, each creation is carefully crafted to accompany you in your daily life. Here are our best tips for protecting your jewelry in summer, even during a heatwave.

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Why can summer damage your jewelry?

In summer, several factors can weaken your jewelry:

• UV rays;
• intense heat;
• seawater;
• swimming pool chlorine;
• sand;
• perspiration;
• sunscreen and body oils.

Taken separately, these elements may seem harmless. But their cumulative effect can tarnish metals, weaken certain components, or alter the appearance of some natural stones.

1. Remove your jewelry before swimming

Seawater is rich in salt, while swimming pool water contains chlorine. Both are particularly harsh on many pieces of jewelry.

Over time, they can:

• tarnish certain metals;
• weaken finishes;
• dull the shine of certain natural stones;
• accelerate the aging of materials.

The best practice: remove your jewelry before every swim and only put it back on once your skin is completely rinsed and dry.

2. Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun

The sun is pleasant for us… much less so for some jewelry.

UV rays can gradually change the color of certain stones or pearls and reduce their brilliance. Heat can also weaken elastic bracelets.

A simple tip: never leave your jewelry in direct sunlight on a towel, garden table, car dashboard, or near a window for several hours.

3. Be careful at the beach: sand is more abrasive than you might think

Wearing a beautiful piece of jewelry to the beach is tempting, but it is not always a good idea.

Sand acts as a natural abrasive capable of creating micro-scratches on metals and certain stones. Not to mention the risk of losing a ring or bracelet in the water or under the sand.

Whenever possible, it is best to leave your most precious jewelry at home.

4. Store your jewelry in a cool, dry place

Heat and humidity are the enemies of proper storage.

To preserve your jewelry:

• store it in a pouch or jewelry box;
• protect it from direct light;
• avoid damp rooms such as bathrooms;
• do not leave it in a car exposed to the sun.

These few habits will help preserve its shine for many years.

5. Wait until your skin is dry before putting your jewelry back on

After a shower or swim, it is best to dry your skin thoroughly before putting on your jewelry.

Moisture, combined with perspiration and high temperatures, can accelerate the wear of certain materials.

It is also advisable to wait a few minutes after applying sunscreen, oil, or perfume before putting your jewelry back on.

6. Clean your jewelry regularly during the summer

Residues of sunscreen, perspiration, or dust accumulate more quickly in summer.

After several weeks of vacation, take a few minutes to gently clean your jewelry with a soft cloth.

This simple maintenance helps preserve its shine while extending its lifespan.

The most common mistakes to avoid

Certain habits can damage your jewelry without you realizing it:

• swimming with your jewelry on;
• leaving it in direct sunlight for several hours;
• placing it directly on the sand;
• storing it while damp;
• spraying perfume directly on it;
• storing it in a very damp bathroom.

In summary: the 7 essential steps to protect your jewelry in summer

✔ Remove your jewelry before going to the pool or the sea.

✔ Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun.

✔ Store it in a cool, dry place.

✔ Do not take it to the beach whenever possible.

✔ Wait until your skin is completely dry before putting it back on.

✔ Avoid contact with sunscreen and perfume.

✔ Clean it regularly with a soft cloth.

Jewelry that accompanies you for years to come

A piece of jewelry is much more than a simple accessory: it tells a story, accompanies precious moments, and is sometimes passed down from generation to generation.

At Perles Rares Djonou, we create artisanal pieces designed to last. By adopting a few simple daily habits, you will preserve their beauty, shine, and authenticity for many years.

Because taking care of your jewelry is also taking care of the memories it holds.