One of the best things about permanent jewellery is how low-maintenance it is. You wear it, and that's pretty much it. No clasps to check, no box to remember to put it back in, no decision to make each morning.

But "low-maintenance" doesn't mean "zero maintenance." Like any fine jewellery, a permanent piece looks its best when it's given a little care. Here's what you need to know.

The Basics: What You Can (and Can't) Do

What You Can Do

Shower in it. This is one of the most common questions — and yes, you can absolutely shower with your permanent jewellery. In fact, this is one of the reasons 14k gold is the metal of choice for permanent pieces. It doesn't react to water and won't tarnish from regular washing.

Swim in it. Occasional swimming — pools, ocean, lakes — is generally fine. The metal itself won't be damaged by water. Just give it a quick rinse with clean water afterwards, especially after swimming in chlorinated pools or saltwater, to prevent any residue build-up over time.

Exercise in it. Gym, yoga, running, cycling — your permanent piece can handle all of it. The chain sits close to the skin and is unlikely to interfere with most activities. Just be mindful of anything that involves heavy equipment or weights close to your wrist, where the chain could catch.

Sleep in it. That's the whole point. No need to take it off before bed.

Travel with it. Permanent jewellery is generally fine through airport security. The chains are fine enough that they typically don't trigger metal detectors. If you're ever flagged, a quick explanation to security staff usually resolves it — the chain can be examined visually and is clearly jewellery.

What to Be Careful With

Chemical exposure. Cleaning products, chlorine, and harsh chemicals can dull the surface of your chain over time (and turn your silver bracelet, black). If you're cleaning the bathroom or using strong products, it's a good idea to keep your permanent piece out of the way, or rinse it thoroughly afterwards.

Lotions and perfumes. Apply skincare and perfume before your chain, not after. Product build-up in the chain links can cause dullness over time. Let lotions absorb fully before your chain sits against your skin.

Tight spaces and catching. Fine chains can catch on rough surfaces, tight clothing, or accessories. Be aware of this in situations where there's a risk of snagging — knitted jumpers with loose fibres, velcro, or similar materials.

Heavy physical work. If your work or a specific activity involves significant pressure, friction, or catching near your wrist, be mindful of the chain. It's strong for what it is, but fine jewellery has its limits.

How to Clean Your Permanent Jewellery

After every WELD appointment, Zoë Alexandria provides a complimentary polishing cloth. This is your first line of maintenance — a quick buff with the cloth is enough to restore shine between deeper cleans.

For a more thorough clean, a jewellery cleaning kit works well. At home, you can also:

1. Mix a small amount of mild dish soap with warm water
2. Use a very soft toothbrush (or a dedicated jewellery brush) to gently work the solution through the chain links
3. Rinse thoroughly with clean water
4. Pat dry with a soft cloth — or let it air dry against your skin

Avoid ultrasonic cleaners for fine chain, as the vibrations can stress the small links over time. Steam cleaning is also best avoided for permanent pieces you can't remove.

Caring for Silver vs Gold Permanent Jewellery

14k gold is the most forgiving metal for permanent wear. It's resistant to tarnish, doesn't react with skin, and maintains its colour without much intervention. A regular wipe with a polishing cloth and an occasional gentle clean is all it needs.

Sterling silver requires slightly more attention. Silver naturally oxidises over time — it develops a darker patina, particularly in the chain links, when exposed to air and skin chemistry. This isn't damage; it's a natural property of silver. A polishing cloth removes it easily and restores the brightness. If you have a silver permanent piece, budget a little more time for occasional maintenance.

What to Do If Your Piece Breaks

Fine chains can break — particularly if they catch on something or are subjected to unexpected force. It's not common, but it does happen.

Within two weeks of your appointment: If your weld fails or the chain breaks near the weld point within the first two weeks, this is covered under Zoë Alexandria's warranty. Get in touch and the piece will be re-welded at no charge.

After two weeks: Chain breakage outside the warranty period can be repaired for a small fee. Contact the studio to arrange a repair appointment — you'll come in, the chain ends will be re-welded, and you'll leave with it back on.

If you lose the chain entirely: If the chain is lost rather than broken, you'll need to purchase a new one. The good news is that getting re-welded is a quick appointment, and you get to choose a chain again.

What If You Need to Remove It?

Despite the name, permanent jewellery isn't impossible to remove. If you ever need it off — for a medical procedure, an MRI, or simply because you want to — it can be cut with a small pair of scissors or fine cutters. The chain is delicate enough that this is easy and quick.

After cutting, if you'd like a new piece, just book another WELD appointment.

Signs Your Piece Needs Attention

• Dullness: Usually just needs a clean or a buff with the polishing cloth
• Darkening (silver): Natural oxidation — polish it back to brightness with the cloth
• Discolouration around the weld: Rare, but worth checking — contact the studio if you notice anything unusual near the join
• Loose feeling: Fine chains can stretch slightly over time with heavy wear — if yours feels significantly looser, it may be worth having it checked

Permanent jewellery is designed to be lived in — not saved for special occasions, not put away carefully, not remembered to wear. With a small amount of care, a quality piece in 14k gold or sterling silver will look great for years.

Have questions about your permanent piece? Get in touch with the Zoë Alexandria studio — or book a WELD. appointment at our Engadine studio, Thursday to Sunday.