You’ve got the ring, and you want to show it off. You’re wondering how quickly you can get that sweet, sweet third finger tan line. As much as you want it to just fuse to your hand and never leave, there are some places where rings just don’t do so well, and water is the main one. Maybe stick to sunbathing in the backyard if that tan line is your end goal.
The Simple Solution
The short, simple answer would be “just don’t do it.” However, we’re realistic. You aren’t taking that thing off because it just looks too good to be away from even for a second. Fair enough – we can work with that.
You have some choices if you need to wear a ring while basking in the sun on the waterfront. Consider silicone rings as an option; they tend to be best for day-to-day activities where your engagement or wedding ring can get damaged. They have all the “I do” that you’re looking for, but they’re tough enough (and replaceable enough) that you can take them anywhere.
You might think, “Well, I’ll just get a cheaper ring for these occasions. I don’t mind it getting a bit beat up.” You could do that, but it won’t beat silicone. Also, some engagement rings are made from softer materials that will fare worse in the water than harder, more expensive ones. There are, however, affordable engagement ring options made from quality materials. Just make sure you know how well the ring you buy can hold up to the elements.
How to Wear a Ring to the Beach
The first thing you want to be aware of is that your fingers will shrink in the cold. What does this mean for you? Leave the ring behind if you plan to do a polar bear plunge. If your engagement ring is on the looser side, those cold shrunken fingers are going to spell disaster.
Cold water and jewelry don’t mix well, so be aware of that. Beyond this concern, saltwater is not a friend to your jewelry and can do some damage to it. Even if it doesn’t do serious harm, repeated exposure will definitely shorten your ring’s lifespan and luster.
You can wear your engagement ring on the beach if you aren’t in the water, but it’s still not the best idea. While sand likely won’t do any serious harm to your ring, it won’t do it any favors. Your best bet is to either be very careful or leave it at home. A surgical glove might work too.
How to Wear a Ring at the Pool
While the same rules about cold water apply here as well, your stakes aren’t as high. Let’s say your ring comes off in the pool. It’s nerve-racking for a second, but you’ll likely be able to get it back. That being said, we still strongly advise you don’t go in the pool with your ring.
Unlike the sand, you’re cleared to sit poolside with your ring on and enjoy yourself. Maybe don’t flail around wildly if your ring is a bit loose, but that’s probably just good advice in general. Note that you should always take off your ring before applying sunscreen, whether poolside or at the beach.
Other Considerations
It’s an unfortunate truth that you have to be aware of your possessions when you’re at the beach or pool. If you take your ring with you and decide to take it off, you have to know where it is at all times. It could get stolen or even just lost along the way. If you have some specific, identifying characteristics like an inscription, it will be easier to find your ring and prove that it is, in fact, yours.
Your best bet (outside of leaving it home) is to put it in a ring box and leave it locked in your glove compartment or another car storage area.
How to Clean Your Ring
Cleaning your ring is a good habit to get in regardless to maximize its shine and life. However, if you do take your ring to the beach or pool, you want to be sure you clean it well. If your ring took a bit of a beating from some saltwater and sand, you might want to consider bringing it to a professional to have it cleaned.
You could memorize all the dos and don’ts of going to the pool and the beach with your engagement ring. Alternatively, you could just leave it at home. We know it looks so good. We know you don’t want to ever take it off. Please, do yourself a favor, and be apart from it for the afternoon. When you get back, it will still be there safe, sound and sand-free.
Keep being AllDayChic!
