The rise of waterproof jewellery is hard to ignore. With bold promises like “wear it in the sea, gym or shower” and prices that feel too good to be true, this trend has taken social media by storm.
At Aquila, we get why waterproof jewellery UK brands are having a moment. Convenience? Yes. Easy gifting? Absolutely. But when it comes to long-lasting wear, skin-kind metals and true sustainability, not every piece lives up to what buyers hope for.
So let’s take a look at the pros and cons of waterproof jewellery so you can decide if it’s the best choice for you.
Pros of waterproof jewellery
Waterproof jewellery has plenty of plus points, which explains its recent surge in popularity. From everyday convenience to durability in water, let’s look at why so many people are loving it.
Low maintenance
Waterproof jewellery is usually made from stainless steel or coated brass with a PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition) finish. This techy term just means the colour lasts longer without tarnishing.
It’s low-fuss, durable and doesn’t need polishing every week, which makes it great for holidays, gym sessions or those “I never take my necklace off” types.
Affordability
Most waterproof gold jewellery pieces sit in the affordable price bracket, think £15–£50. And it’s the same for the silver variants too. That makes it perfect for gifting, stacking, or experimenting with new styles. You can have a jewellery drawer full of options without a huge investment.
Sweatproof, swimmable, sea-ready
These pieces are marketed as gym-proof and sea-friendly. You can supposedly wear them in salt water, sweat, showers and not worry. That sounds ideal, in theory…but what about in practice?
Cons of waterproof jewellery
Before you jump on the trend, here’s what to know about the flip side.
It’s not forever
Here’s the thing. Even “waterproof” jewellery has a lifespan. Despite the marketing claims, PVD coatings do eventually wear down, especially if you’re wearing the piece 24/7.
Sweat, heat and water may not destroy it overnight, but over months or years, it can fade, dull, or discolour, especially around clasps and joints.
And no one wants discoloured jewellery that you can’t turn back to its original coating.
Not always skin-kind
A big one for us. Most waterproof jewellery UK brands use stainless steel or brass bases. Brass can irritate those with sensitive skin, and even stainless steel contains nickel albeit in low amounts, not ideal if you have allergies.
Mass-produced and machine-made
We absolutely get it, price points are important.
But that often means these pieces are made in bulk, with machines and premade moulds. There’s nothing wrong with that per se… but it’s a far cry from slow-made, artisan craftsmanship. And when it breaks, it’s often cheaper to throw it away than to fix it.
Sustainability? Questionable
Many waterproof jewellery lines focus on short-term trends. Stackable one season, chunky the next. Many brands don’t mention their supply chains or materials, and because most pieces aren’t easily recyclable, they often end up in landfills.
Why sterling silver and gold vermeil win long-term
We’re proud of what we do at Aquila, and it’s not just because our expert artisans handcraft each piece using traditional tools passed down through generations. It’s also about what we make our jewellery from, and why.
Recycled materials
We use recycled sterling silver and gold vermeil (a thick layer of gold over silver, not brass). These aren’t just buzzwords. Recycling precious metals reduces the environmental impact of mining and gives old jewellery a new life.
Our metals are responsibly sourced, and we work closely with our artisans to ensure nothing goes to waste.
We think you’ll love: 7 Things You Need to Know About Recycled Sterling Silver
Neutral tones that don’t fade
Waterproof gold jewellery often leans towards high-shine, rich synthetic finishes.
Gold vermeil has a warm, buttery lustre that doesn’t scream “shiny fake gold” like some waterproof jewellery. Sterling silver? Timeless, cool-toned, and always on point. Our palette is neutral and wearable, designed to complement skin tones and outfits.
Unlike coloured coatings that eventually chip or fade, our jewellery ages gracefully with a gentle patina adds character over time, not flaws.
Take our 14ct Gold vermeil Hammered Agonda Hoops for example. Softly textured, glowingly golden and buttery warm, they are carefully designed and crafted to wear beautifully for years, not just for summer. And with a little upkeep, they’ll stay that way for a long time.
We think you’ll love: How to Clean Sterling Silver and Gold Earrings
Skin-friendly always
Both sterling silver and gold vermeil are naturally hypoallergenic. No nickel, no irritation, no green skin. You can wear our pieces all day, every day, with full peace of mind. Whether it’s a meaningful gift or a daily staple, we want you to love it and live in it without worry.
Designed to last, not be replaced
When something is handmade with care, it’s built to stand the test of time. We don’t believe in fast fashion or throwaway trends. Our jewellery is created to be worn and loved for years, not just one season.
That’s what sustainability looks like.
The bigger picture: sustainability in jewellery
We’re not perfect. But we are intentional. From our choice of packaging (recyclable, always) to our long-term relationships with artisans who are members of the Responsible Jewellery Council we care about impact.
Mass-produced waterproof jewellery brands have a place, sure, but it’s often part of the throwaway culture that fast fashion fuels.
Buying less, buying better, and choosing quality metals means:
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Less waste
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Lower environmental impact
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Jewellery that’s treasured, not tossed
Should I buy waterproof jewellery?
Sure, If you want something quick, trend-led and low-maintenance. A little waterproof bracelet for your holiday? Go for it!
But if you’re looking for jewellery that holds meaning, feels beautiful, lasts years, and doesn’t cost the Earth, recycled sterling silver and gold vermeil are a better investment. Especially when they’re handmade with heart, soul and a unique design.
Why buy from Aquila?
We’re not just another jewellery brand.
We’re a small, independent business based in Brighton, a place that breathes creativity, colour and community. Every piece we sell has a story. It’s designed with care, inspired by travel, and made by real artisans, not machines.
Our customers come to us because they want something different. Jewellery that connects. That lasts. That means something.
We don’t do “waterproof” but we do create wearable, skin-loving, sustainable pieces.
And we think that’s pretty special.
Come visit us in Brighton’s Dukes Lane, explore our collection online, or get in touch. We’re always happy to chat about jewellery, travel and the joy of jewellery made by hand.
Want to add to the conversation? We’d love to hear your thoughts below.
