7 best tarnish-free jewellery brands for summer 2023

We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article.

Trust us, waterproof and sweat-proof designs are a jewellery box must-have Gold Jewelry 18k

7 best tarnish-free jewellery brands for summer 2023

Summer means sun, sand, salt, sweat and sunscreen – all features of an exciting beach holiday, but a nightmare for your jewellery box. And yes, we know the rules for gold and silver-plated jewellery – ‘remove before showering’, ‘keep away from soap and perfume’ – but sticking to them can be a little... unrealistic. With that in mind, we’ve rounded up some jewellery brands offering tarnish-free accessories that are equal parts stylish, durable and affordable.

The answer depends on who you ask. In its truest sense, tarnish-free means that the item won’t fade or discolour over time. Solid gold jewellery ticks the box, while cheaper copper rings can cause your fingers to turn that dreaded green hue. Where it can get a little confusing is when brands use gold and silver plating (at a premium cost) over materials such as brass and sterling silver. Over time, even precious plating can start to wear away and cause the colour to fade (requiring effort to then clean your jewellery), making these pieces more tarnish-resistant than tarnish-proof.

This stands for ‘physical vapour deposition’ (which is a bit of a mouthful), and refers to a process in which stainless steel is covered with a thin layer of metal. This type of coating can be up to 10 times stronger than regular gold or silver plating, and is highly resistant to tarnishing and scratching. The best part? It’s cheaper and lasts longer than plating.

So what are you waiting for? Right this way for the best tarnish-free jewellery brands offering waterproof pieces that will stay sparkly for years to come. That's what we call the perfect additions to your jewellery box.

Quick tip: Most of these brands offer classic plated styles, too – so make sure you double-check the piece you’re eyeing up is tarnish-proof before buying.

We love them for: Eye-catching rings and earrings

With enviably cool pieces that look far more expensive than they actually are, Hey Harper is an industry favourite. Our top picks? The gorgeous rings. Plus, the brand also offers a lifetime colour warranty.

P.S. Make sure to check out our full Hey Harper review here.

We love them for: Classic investment pieces and charms

How it works: Solid gold

Pandora is a mainstay on the high street for a reason: there’s something for everyone. While it offers sterling silver and gold-plated options, the brand also has a range of solid gold designs to choose from – we especially love the fun charms and classic bangles. All of Pandora’s solid gold pieces carry a two-year warranty.

We love them for: Layering necklaces and stacking rings

Named after the founder’s late mother, Deborah Louise, this brand has mastered versatile, delicate jewellery that layers perfectly. Plus, every piece comes with a lifetime warranty against colour fading.

We love them for: Chain necklaces and T-bar bracelets

Fashion girlies on Instagram can’t get enough of Orelia, and the brand’s new SS23 Luxe range features PVD styles. The theme for the collection is ‘understated elegance meets vintage inspiration’, and pieces come with a two-year guarantee.

We love them for: On-trend hoops and bracelets

Fans of chubby hoops and expensive-looking chain bracelets need look no further than Olette, which offers that high-end aesthetic. Every order comes with a two-year warranty and a tree is also planted.

We love them for: Dainty chains and pearl details

If you spend summer by the sea, you’re going to love Atolea. This brand’s minimalist, ocean-inspired waterproof jewellery comes with a lifetime colour warranty.

We love them for: Timeless designs perfect for stacking

Warranty? Yes (a six-month warranty on jewellery breakages)

Launched in 2021, By Rae is a small independent brand creating classic jewellery pieces, such as snake chain necklaces and huggies adorned with birthstones. For every order, By Rae contributes to CleanHub's ocean plastic initiative and funds 1lb of plastic removal from the ocean.

25 NYE dresses you're going to LOVE

21 best camel coats to shop

Best jeans for women to suit all body types

Hi, your home needs a scented candle for Xmas

Top notch hair masks to save your dry AF strands

The best slippers to keep you comfy at home

46 gifts that serve self-care realness baby

16 best Lovehoney sex toys of all time

26 sexy Christmas gifts they actually want

The best ski wear gems to invest in now

The SKIMS sale is very much still on, ppl

20 best fetish outfits to wear out on the town

Cosmopolitan, Part of the Hearst UK Fashion & Beauty Network

Cosmopolitan participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites.