Dark Cherry Set |Baby| + Mommy Necklace
Original price was: €90.00.€65.00Current price is: €65.00.
You’re rushing to get the kids ready for bed and hop into the shower—only to realize you’re still wearing your amber teething necklace. A moment of panic hits: Did I just ruin it? Will it still work? If you’ve ever found yourself in this situation, you’re not alone.
Amber jewelry, especially Baltic amber teething necklaces, are cherished for their natural beauty and potential soothing benefits. But since amber isn’t a typical gemstone, many wonder: Can amber go in water, or does getting it wet make it ineffective? Let’s clear up the confusion so you can confidently care for your amber without fear of losing its charm or effectiveness.
What Happens When Amber Gets Wet?
Amber is not a hard crystal; it is fossilized tree resin that formed millions of years ago, making it lightweight, warm to the touch, and beautifully organic. However, these same properties mean that amber is porous and delicate compared to gemstones like quartz or sapphires.
When amber gets wet, it doesn’t dissolve or immediately lose its effectiveness, but prolonged exposure to water can:
- Dull its natural shine, especially if soap or shampoo residue remains.
- Weaken the silk or cotton string holding the beads together, increasing the chance of breakage.
- Cause microfractures over time if exposed repeatedly to hot water or sudden temperature changes.
In short: Getting your amber necklace wet occasionally won’t ruin it instantly, but repeated or prolonged water exposure can reduce its beauty and durability over time.
Does Water Make Amber Ineffective?
A common misconception is that water “washes away” the properties that give amber its potential soothing benefits. Baltic amber contains succinic acid, a compound often cited as the source of its calming properties when worn against the skin. The good news is water does not wash out succinic acid from your amber beads.
However, water can temporarily affect how amber interacts with your skin:
- If moisture is trapped under the beads, it may reduce the consistent contact needed for your necklace to warm with your body heat.
- Residue from soaps or minerals in water can leave a film on the beads, making them feel sticky or look cloudy.
Thus, while water itself does not remove the properties of amber, it can reduce the necklace’s comfort and aesthetic quality, which indirectly affects your daily wearing experience.
Can You Shower or Bathe With an Amber Necklace?
It’s tempting to leave your amber necklace on all the time, especially if your child wears it for teething comfort or you enjoy its warmth and lightweight feel. But should you keep it on in the bath or shower?
Technically, you can, but it’s not recommended. Water itself isn’t the biggest issue—it’s what’s in the water and the conditions of your bath or shower:
- Hot water and steam can stress the amber and the string, increasing the risk of breakage.
- Shampoo, soap, and bath oils can leave a film on the beads, dulling their natural glow and making them feel sticky.
- Chlorine and saltwater (swimming pools and the sea) can damage the surface and cause buildup on your necklace.
For long-term beauty and effectiveness, it’s best to remove your amber jewelry before bathing, swimming, or showering. This simple habit will keep your necklace looking beautiful and reduce the chance of the string wearing out.
What To Do If Your Amber Necklace Gets Wet
Accidents happen—if your amber necklace gets wet, don’t panic. Here’s what to do:
Pat it dry immediately with a soft, clean towel. Avoid rubbing harshly, which could scratch the beads.
Let it air dry fully on a towel in a shaded, dry area before storing or wearing again.
Avoid using hairdryers, heaters, or direct sunlight to dry amber quickly, as rapid heat can cause cracking.
If the beads look dull after drying, you can gently rub them with a tiny drop of olive oil on a soft cloth, then wipe off excess to restore shine.
Taking these steps promptly will prevent water from weakening the string and will keep your amber looking its best.
Caring for Your Amber Jewelry
So, does getting your amber necklace wet make it ineffective? No, water alone doesn’t ruin amber’s potential benefits or wash away its properties, but keeping it dry is essential for preserving its natural beauty and durability.
Amber jewelry is unique, natural, and warm, but it requires gentle care. Removing it before showers and swimming will keep your necklace shining for years to come while ensuring you continue to enjoy its potential comfort.
If you’re looking for more detailed guidance on amber maintenance, check out our complete Amber Jewelry Care Guide. With proper care, your Baltic amber necklace can remain a cherished piece in your daily life, carrying the warmth and energy of nature wherever you go.
