Stainless steel jewellery: a straight guide to 316L

Stainless steel jewellery is the piece you can stop thinking about. You can wear it to work on a building site, into the sea at Wailoaloa, through a game of rugby or a long day in the cane fields, and it comes out looking much the same. It is also affordable, which makes it a good gift and a sensible choice for anyone who is hard on jewellery.

Here is a plain guide to what it is and how to choose it.

What 316L stainless steel is

Stainless steel is iron mixed with chromium, which forms a thin, invisible layer on the surface that protects the metal from rust. There are many grades. The one used for good jewellery is 316L.

• 316 is a grade that includes molybdenum, which gives extra resistance to salt and chlorine. It is often called "marine grade" because it is used on boats.
• L stands for low carbon, which makes the steel more resistant to corrosion after it has been shaped and welded.

The same family of steel is used for surgical instruments and some body jewellery. When you are comparing steel pieces, ask whether they are 316L. Cheaper fashion jewellery may be plated base metal that only looks like steel, and that plating wears through.

Why it suits Fiji

Our climate is hard on jewellery. Heat, humidity, sweat, salt air and sea water all take a toll on plated pieces and on lower-grade metals. 316L handles all of them well.

• Sea and salt. It is made to resist salt water. A rinse in fresh water afterwards is all it needs.
• Sweat and humidity. It does not go green or leave marks on your skin the way cheap brass and plated jewellery can.
• Knocks. Steel is very hard, so rings and chains hold their shape through daily wear.
• Work and sport. For tradespeople, farmers, fishermen, gym-goers and anyone who uses their hands all day, it is a practical everyday choice.

Sensitive skin

Most people who react to cheap fashion jewellery can wear 316L without trouble. It does contain some nickel, but it is held tightly in the steel and very little is released against the skin. If you have a severe nickel allergy, try a piece for a few days before wearing it full time, and stop if you notice any itching or redness.

Choosing well

• Get the size right. Steel is so hard it keeps its shape for years, so it pays to choose the right size from the start. Try rings on in store.
• Pick your finish. Polished, brushed, black and coloured finishes all wear well. Brushed is the most forgiving for hard work.
• Pair it with gold. For weddings, Diwali and family occasions, many people still want the colour and meaning of 22ct gold, and keep steel for every day.

What we stock in steel

At Shreeji Jewellers we carry 316L stainless steel rings, bracelets and chains. Rings come in different widths and finishes, and bracelets and chains in a range of link styles. Stock changes often, so call or message us if you are after something specific. You can see examples on our stainless steel page, and if rings are what you are after, our guide to stainless steel rings goes into widths, finishes and sizing.

Caring for stainless steel

Care is simple.

1. Rinse after the sea or a pool. Fresh water, then a quick dry with a soft cloth.
2. Wash with mild soap. Warm water, a drop of dishwashing liquid and a soft toothbrush clean out the links of a chain or bracelet.
3. Avoid harsh chemicals. Bleach and strong cleaning products are not good for any jewellery, coated steel included.
4. Store pieces apart. Keep steel in its own pouch or compartment, away from your gold and silver.

Brushed finishes keep their look especially well, which is why many men choose brushed rings for work.

Who stainless steel suits

• Men who want a ring or bracelet they never need to take off.
• Gifts for birthdays, graduations and Father's Day, when you want something solid that will last without the cost of gold.
• Everyday wear alongside your gold, so the 22ct chain stays home on work days.
• Visitors who want something they can swim in on holiday without worrying.

If you want a piece that carries family meaning or will be passed down, choose gold. If you want something tough, low-maintenance and affordable for daily life, steel does that job very well. Our ring size guide is worth a look before buying a steel ring, so you get the size right first time.