If you want your jewellery to last, you first need to understand what it’s made of.
9K gold is 37.5% pure gold blended with alloy metals like copper, silver, and zinc. These alloys give the metal its strength and colour but they also make it behave differently from higher-purity gold.
Here’s the key thing:
-
Pure gold doesn’t tarnish.
-
The alloy metals can.
So when your 9K gold jewellery changes in appearance over time, it’s rarely the gold reacting, it’s everything mixed with it.
So… What Happens When 9K Gold Gets Wet?
The good news:
-
Water won’t destroy 9K gold.
-
Showering, sweating, and the occasional swim won’t make it turn green overnight.
-
It doesn’t dissolve, peel, or flake like plated jewellery.
But repeated exposure does have consequences:
-
Chlorine can weaken and dull the metal over time
-
Saltwater is corrosive
-
Soaps, shampoo and lotions leave residue
-
Alloy metals can tarnish with ongoing moisture
Think of it like wearing your favourite leather shoes in the rain. One storm won’t ruin them but daily downpours will leave a mark.
Why Some 9K Jewellery Tarnishes Faster Than Others
Not all 9K gold is created the same.
Different jewellers use different alloy mixes, manufacturing techniques, and finishing processes. Some blends are more tarnish-resistant; others react more quickly. And if a piece is hollow, thin, or plated over a base metal, it will behave differently again.
That’s why two 9K chains can age completely differently even if you wear them the same way.
The Truth About “Waterproof Jewellery”
Here’s the part most brands skip.
When companies market “waterproof jewellery,” they’re usually talking about PVD-coated stainless steel, gold-plated, or vermeil pieces designed to survive splashes, not long-term durability.
Fine gold alloys like 9K and 18K aren’t technically “waterproof.” They’re simply more resistant to the things that make plated jewellery fall apart.
Where 6K Gold Changes the Story
This is exactly why we created our proprietary 6K Solid Gold Alloy. It's made using the same manufacturing standards as 9K and 18K, just with a different gold percentage.
It’s crafted from:
-
25% real gold
-
Alloys chosen for durability, strength and improved tarnish-resistance
-
Materials that are hypoallergenic and safe for everyday wear
The result?
Jewellery that behaves like fine gold, feels like fine gold, and lasts far longer than plated pieces without the fine-jewellery price tag.
So… Is 9K Gold Waterproof? What About 6K?
You can absolutely get both 9K and 6K gold wet.
But no gold alloy is 100% waterproof in the long-term sense. Regular exposure to chemicals, salt, sweat or products can gradually affect the alloy metals and dull the surface.
A little care goes a long way:
-
Take your jewellery off before swimming laps
-
Rinse after a beach day
-
Avoid harsh chemicals
-
Give your pieces an occasional clean
They’re durable, just not indestructible.
If You Want Jewellery That Keeps Up With Your Life
Our 6K collection was created for people who live in their jewellery.
Durable. Stylish. Designed for the way you actually wear it.
Shop the 6K Collection here.