Can My Crystal Bracelet Get Wet? The Ultimate Guide to Water Safety

It’s a question every crystal jewelry owner asks: “Can I wear my beautiful new bracelet in the shower?” You love its energy and never want to take it off, but you’re worried water might harm it. It’s a valid concern, and the short answer is: it’s complicated, and when in doubt, it’s always safer to take it off.

The safety of getting your bracelet wet depends on two main factors: the type of crystal and the other materials used in the bracelet. At EnergyLumin, we want your sacred pieces to last a lifetime. This guide will break down everything you need to know.

It’s Not Just About the Crystal: Consider the Whole Bracelet

Before we even talk about the stones, remember that your bracelet is an entire ecosystem.

• The Elastic Cord: Most bracelets are strung on an elastic cord. Frequent exposure to water, soaps, and lotions will cause this cord to degrade, stretch, and eventually break.
• Metal Spacers & Charms: If your bracelet has metal components (like silver, copper, or alloys), water and chemicals can cause them to tarnish, rust, or lose their shine.

For these reasons alone, we generally recommend removing your bracelet before showering, swimming, or washing dishes.

The “Water-Safe” Crystals: Hard & Durable Stones

Some crystals are much more durable than others when it comes to water. A good rule of thumb is the Mohs hardness scale. Generally, crystals that are a 6 or higher on the scale are considered safe for a brief rinse with clean water (but not for prolonged soaking).

Examples of Water-Safe Crystals:

• Quartz Family: Clear Quartz, Amethyst, Rose Quartz, Smoky Quartz, Citrine. These are very hard and durable.
• Agate & Jasper: Most varieties are quite sturdy and can handle a quick wash.
• Tiger’s Eye: A resilient stone that is generally water-safe.

Even for these stones, a quick rinse and gentle pat dry is all that’s needed. There’s no benefit to soaking them for long periods.

The “Keep Dry” Crystals: The Soft & Delicate Stones

This is the most important list to remember. Certain crystals should never be put in water, as it can cause them to dissolve, crack, or even release toxic elements.

Examples of Crystals to Keep Dry at All Costs:

• Selenite: This soft, fibrous crystal is a form of gypsum and will literally dissolve or break down over time in water.
• Malachite: This beautiful green stone is porous and can release toxic compounds into the water. Never use it in elixirs or baths.
• Lapis Lazuli: It is porous and can be damaged by prolonged water exposure.
• Pyrite (Fool’s Gold): This is an iron sulfide. When it gets wet, it will rust and tarnish.
• Hematite: Also an iron-based stone, it is prone to rusting.
• Fluorite: It is a soft stone and can be easily damaged by water.

The Dangers of Salt Water and Soaps

• Salt Water: Never cleanse your crystals in salt water (unless you are an expert who knows the specific exceptions). Salt is corrosive and can get into the tiny cracks and fissures of stones, causing them to break down over time.
• Soaps & Chemicals: Soaps, shampoos, and lotions can leave a dull film on your crystals, diminishing their natural shine and beauty. They also accelerate the degradation of the elastic cord.

A Better Way: Water-Free Cleansing

If your goal is to energetically cleanse your bracelet, there are many wonderful and completely safe alternatives to water:

• Smudging: Pass your bracelet through the smoke of sage, Palo Santo, or incense.
• Moonlight: Leave your bracelet on a windowsill overnight during a full moon.
• Selenite Plate: Place your bracelet on a Selenite charging plate to cleanse and recharge it.
• Sound: Use a singing bowl, tingsha bells, or even a specific frequency on your phone to cleanse it with sound vibrations.

The Final Verdict

Caring for your crystal bracelet is a mindful practice that honors the energy and beauty of these gifts from the Earth. To ensure your piece lasts for years to come, we always recommend the safest path:

When in doubt, take it off before it gets wet.

This simple habit will protect the crystal’s integrity, preserve its shine, and extend the life of the cord, allowing your energetic companion to stay with you for a long, long time.