Is 18K Gold Waterproof? Everything You Need to Know About PVD Jewelry
Let’s be real: no one wants to take off their jewelry every time they wash their hands, shower, or hit the beach. If you’ve ever wondered, “Is 18k gold waterproof?”, the answer depends on what kind of gold you’re talking about. In this guide, we’re breaking down what makes jewelry waterproof, how PVD gold works, and how to pick pieces that can truly keep up with your life.
So… Is 18K Gold Waterproof?
Technically, solid 18k gold is water-resistant (it won’t rust or corrode) but it can still scratch, dull, or lose shine over time if exposed to soaps, chlorine, and saltwater. Plus, most people aren’t buying solid gold for everyday wear. That’s where PVD gold jewelry comes in.
What Is PVD Gold Jewelry?
PVD stands for Physical Vapor Deposition, a high-tech coating process that binds gold to stainless steel in a way that’s ultra-durable, tarnish-resistant, and yes, waterproof!
Why PVD Gold Is Better Than Regular Plated Jewelry:
✨ 10x more durable than traditional gold plating
✨ Sweatproof and waterproof: great for workouts, showers, and beach days
✨ Hypoallergenic and safe for sensitive skin
✨ Looks like real gold, but more affordable and way less maintenance
Does PVD Jewelry Tarnish or Turn Green?
Nope! That’s the ✨magic✨ of PVD.
Unlike cheap gold-plated or brass jewelry that turns green or rubs off, PVD jewelry is built to last. It’s bonded to stainless steel, which means it won’t tarnish, corrode, or leave those annoying green marks on your skin.
💡 If your jewelry turns green, it’s not PVD.
Can You Shower or Swim in 18K PVD Gold Jewelry?
Yes, and yes!
You can:
💧 Shower with it
💧 Swim in the pool or ocean
💧 Sweat in it
💧 Wash your hands without worrying
PVD gold jewelry is waterproof, low-maintenance, and perfect for daily wear, even in humid, hot, or wet conditions.
How to Tell If Your Jewelry Is PVD Coated
Not all gold jewelry is created equal. Here’s how to spot real PVD gold:
💫 It’s described as “PVD,” “waterproof,” “tarnish-resistant,” or “sweatproof”
💫 It won’t feel flimsy or overly lightweight
💫 It keeps its color and shine even after daily wear
💫 It’s often based on stainless steel, not brass or copper
At Lauren Riley Jewelry, we clearly label our waterproof, PVD-coated pieces, so you know exactly what you’re getting.
How to Care for PVD Gold Jewelry
Even though it’s low maintenance, a little care goes a long way.
PVD Jewelry Care Tips:
🫧 Wipe with a soft cloth after heavy sweat or exposure to salt/chlorine
🫧 Store it in a dry pouch (you get one with every LRJ order!)
🫧 Avoid spraying perfume directly on your jewelry
Where to Buy Waterproof PVD Gold Jewelry
Not all gold jewelry is gym-proof, beach-proof, or shower-proof, but Lauren Riley Jewelry is.
We carry a collection of tarnish-resistant, waterproof, and hypoallergenic PVD gold jewelry made for women who want to look polished and stay practical. From hoops to anklets, it’s style that stays with you.
👉🏼 Shop the waterproof collection now and say goodbye to high-maintenance jewelry.