Have you ever bought a piece of jewelry that turned green after two weeks? Or earrings that irritated your ears the first time you wore them? It's frustrating — and, most importantly, avoidable.
Stainless steel has become one of the most popular materials in jewelry, but many questions still circulate about its true properties.
Is it really hypoallergenic? Is it water-resistant? Can you wear it every day without maintenance?
We answer all your questions.
Does stainless steel tarnish?
No — and that's probably its biggest advantage.
Unlike plated silver or low-end gold jewelry, stainless steel does not oxidize upon contact with air, sweat, or moisture.
Its chemical composition includes chrome, which forms a natural protective layer on the metal's surface. This invisible layer prevents oxidation and corrosion.
Result: your jewelry retains its shine over time, without maintenance, without polishing, without unpleasant surprises.
Discover our stainless steel rings that keep their shine every day.
Is stainless steel hypoallergenic?
Yes — provided you choose the right quality.
316L stainless steel (surgical steel) is the recommended standard. It is nickel-free, lead-free, and cadmium-free — the main allergens in cheap jewelry.
If your earrings have ever irritated you, it's often due to nickel. 316L solves this problem at the source.
At Alberto Bijoux: all our stainless steel jewelry is 316L. Perfect for sensitive skin and worry-free daily wear.
If you have sensitive skin, our hypoallergenic earrings are designed to be worn without irritation.
Can you wear stainless steel jewelry in the shower?
Yes, no problem.
Stainless steel is resistant to water, steam, and perspiration. You can wear it:
- In the shower
- At the gym
- At the beach
- In the pool
A precision: in the very long term, salt or chlorinated water can slightly tarnish the surface.
Tip: simply rinse with fresh water after each swim.
Our stainless steel necklaces are designed to be worn every day — even in the shower or at the gym.
Does stainless steel rust?
No.
Thanks to its chromium oxide layer, it is naturally protected against corrosion.
This is why it is used in:
- Surgical instruments
- The food industry
- Shipbuilding
In jewelry, this results in pieces that last for years without losing their quality.
Stainless steel vs. gold-plated silver: what's the difference?
Gold-plated silver: beautiful when new, but the plating wears off over time.
Gold-plated stainless steel (PVD): the color is much more durably bonded to the metal.
Conclusion: if you want everyday gold jewelry, stainless steel is the best value for money.
Why choose stainless steel?
- Durable: resistant to shocks, water, and time
- Hypoallergenic: nickel-free
- Maintenance-free: no products needed
- Affordable: jewelry between $15 and $50
- Versatile: silver, gold, rose gold
Its only real competitor: 925 sterling silver, which is more noble, but requires more maintenance.
Our collection at Alberto Bijoux
For over 20 years on the Plateau Mont-Royal in Montreal, we have selected each piece for its quality, style, and durability.
Our collection includes:
- Rings
- Bracelets
- Earrings
- Necklaces
- Chains
All our jewelry: hypoallergenic, water-resistant, and designed for daily wear.
Price: between $15 and $50
Delivery: free anywhere in Canada
Available: online and in-store in Montreal
Ready to switch to stainless steel?
