We don't recommend swimming or showering while wearing your jewellery, and removing rings when washing hands. Chlorine, salt water and fresh water can all damage precious metals and gemstones by dulling or eroding them. Gold and silver plated pieces are particularly susceptible to damage from chlorine, which can permanently damage or discolour them. Soapy water when bathing and showering can also leave a thin film, which makes the metal seem dull. Some stones such as lapis lazuli can also be quite porous and shouldn’t be left immersed in water for too long. Liquids and oils can seep into the gems through the tiny cracks between the crystals, causing permanent discolouration and damage. Because of this we also don't recommend wearing porous gems to a beach or hot climates.