How to Care for Your Jewellery During Melbourne’s Hot Summer Weather

Summer in Melbourne can be unpredictable — scorching heat one day, humid the next, and a surprise cool change thrown in for good measure. While we’re used to it, our jewellery often isn’t. Heat, sunscreen, salt water, sweat and everyday summer activities can all affect how your pieces look, feel and wear.

At Gillian’s Jewellery in Forest Hill Chase, we see an increase in repairs, restorations and remodelling requests every summer, many of which could have been avoided with a little seasonal care. Here’s a friendly guide to keeping your jewellery safe, sparkling and in good condition through Melbourne’s warmest months.

How heat affects your jewellery

Heat doesn’t usually damage metals directly, but it can loosen settings, cause rings to fit differently and make delicate pieces more vulnerable.

You may notice:

• Rings feeling tighter when your hands swell 
• Claws catching more easily if metal shifts slightly 
• Stones becoming dirty faster due to sweat and sunscreen 

If a ring suddenly feels too tight or if something feels “off”, it’s best to have it checked. A quick inspection at Gillian’s can prevent a bigger issue later on.

Sunscreen, oils and cosmetics: a gemstone’s worst enemy

Summer skincare is non‑negotiable in Australia — but it can cloud diamonds, dull gemstones and cling to chain links.

Sunscreen tends to:

• Make diamonds look lifeless 
• Stick under claws and settings 
• Attract grit and dirt 

A simple routine helps:

1. Apply sunscreen first 
2. Let it absorb fully 
3. Put your jewellery on last 

This keeps stones brighter and reduces long‑term grime build‑up.

Swimming: when to take jewellery off

Melbourne locals love a dip at St Kilda, Brighton Beach, or even the backyard pool — but water and jewellery rarely mix well.

Chlorine can weaken gold and damage solder joins

This is especially relevant for older heirloom pieces or rings with delicate settings.

Salt water can loosen settings and increase wear

Sand also acts like sandpaper on soft metals.

Cold water shrinks fingers

Which means rings slip off more easily — and are very difficult to find again.

Best practice: always take jewellery off before swimming, whether at the beach or pool.

Sweat and summer sports

From tennis to hiking to gym sessions, sweat is unavoidable — but it’s tough on jewellery.

It can:

• Tarnish metals faster 
• Increase build‑up in settings 
• Accelerate wear on chains and bracelets 

If you’re active, it’s safer to remove rings, bracelets and necklaces before exercising.

Summer travel: storing jewellery safely

If you’re heading away over the holidays:

• Use a soft jewellery pouch or travel box 
• Keep chains separate to prevent tangling 
• Avoid tossing jewellery loosely into bags 

If you’re not planning to wear a valuable piece, consider leaving it safely at home.

Bring your jewellery for a summer check‑up

Summer is the perfect time to check:

• Are claws secure? 
• Is your band thinning from everyday wear? 
• Are your stones still tight? 
• Does your ring fit comfortably after swelling? 

At Gillian’s Jewellery:

• We inspect jewellery under magnification 
• Tighten loose stones 
• Clean pieces professionally 
• Restore shine with polishing or rhodium plating 
• Offer repair or remodelling if needed 

A quick check can save you from losing a precious stone at the beach or damaging a meaningful heirloom.

How to clean your jewellery safely at home

A simple warm water + mild dish soap soak can work wonders for everyday pieces.

General steps:

1. Mix warm water with a small amount of gentle dish soap 
2. Soak for 10–20 minutes 
3. Brush lightly with a very soft toothbrush 
4. Rinse and pat dry 

Avoid: harsh cleaners, boiling water, toothpaste, vinegar, and ultrasonic cleaners unless we’ve confirmed they’re safe for your piece.

If you’re unsure, bring it into Gillian’s — we’ll guide you.

A caring reminder from Gillian’s Jewellery

Jewellery is meant to be loved, worn and enjoyed. With a little extra care during summer, your pieces can stay beautiful and safe for years to come.

If you’d like a complimentary summer jewellery check, or you’ve noticed a claw catching or a ring that feels different, pop in to Gillian’s Jewellery at Forest Hill Chase. We’ll take a warm, friendly, down‑to‑earth look and help ensure your pieces stay secure and sparkling.