Gold jewellery should fit into real life. For many people that means work, weekends, warm weather, exercise, travel and time near the water. The key is understanding what your jewellery is made from, because not all gold-coloured jewellery behaves the same way.
What makes everyday gold jewellery more durable?
Tegan Rae uses 316L stainless steel on many of its pieces, finished with 18K PVD gold. PVD, or physical vapour deposition, is a coating process designed to create a durable finish over the base metal. Compared with very thin conventional fashion plating, PVD finishes are generally chosen for better wear resistance and suitability for everyday use.
That does not make any plated jewellery indestructible. Friction, chemicals, salt, chlorine, perfume, sunscreen and repeated wear can all affect a finish over time. The practical advantage is that a well-made stainless-steel and PVD combination is designed to be lower-maintenance than many delicate plated pieces.
Water-resistant does not mean maintenance-free
Tegan Rae pieces are designed to be water-resistant, so you do not need to treat them like extremely fragile occasion jewellery. If you wear them at the beach, in the shower or during exercise, a quick rinse in fresh water and a gentle dry afterwards can help remove salt, chlorine, soap or product residue.
Avoid harsh chemical cleaners and abrasive polishing. When you are not wearing your jewellery, store pieces separately where possible to reduce scratching and tangling.
How to build an everyday gold jewellery collection
Start with pieces you will genuinely wear rather than buying a large collection at once. A simple pair of hoops or studs, one everyday necklace, a bracelet and a small ring stack can cover most outfits. If you like a more personal look, add zodiac, birthstone, angel-number, heart or initial-inspired pieces.
The most useful jewellery works across different parts of your day. A simple gold necklace can sit with a T-shirt or linen shirt during the day, then layer with another chain for dinner. Small hoops can work alone or as part of an ear stack. A fine bracelet can be worn by itself or beside a watch.
Choosing jewellery for a coastal lifestyle
If you live near the coast, materials matter. Humidity, salt and frequent water exposure can be hard on very thin or reactive finishes. Stainless steel is popular for everyday jewellery because it is strong, corrosion-resistant and practical for regular wear. PVD gold adds the warm gold look while keeping the piece accessible compared with solid gold.
If your priority is jewellery you can wear often without constantly taking it on and off, look for clear material information and care guidance. Avoid assuming every product described as “gold plated” has the same construction.
Why Tegan Rae focuses on wearable pieces
Tegan Rae is built around jewellery that feels personal, feminine and easy to wear. The range includes meaningful pieces such as zodiac, birthstone and angel-number designs alongside simple everyday staples. The aim is jewellery that works with an active Australian lifestyle without feeling overly precious.
Explore Tegan Rae Jewellery to find water-resistant everyday pieces designed for layering, gifting and daily wear.
Frequently asked questions
Can I wear Tegan Rae gold jewellery in water?
Many Tegan Rae pieces are designed to be water-resistant. Rinsing with fresh water after swimming and drying the jewellery gently can help keep the finish looking its best.
What is 18K PVD gold?
PVD is a coating process used to apply a durable gold-coloured finish to a base metal such as stainless steel. It is commonly chosen for better everyday wear resistance than very thin conventional plating.
Will gold-plated jewellery last forever?
No plated finish is permanent. How long it lasts depends on the materials, coating process, frequency of wear and exposure to friction and chemicals. Good care can help extend the life of the finish.