You've probably heard stainless steel lasts forever. But here's the real answer: it depends. 316L stainless steel — the kind we use for every piece at Bodystrands — is genuinely built to last. But "lasting" means different things depending on how you wear it, care for it, and what you expect.
We're not going to tell you it's indestructible. We're going to tell you what actually happens over time, so you can decide if it's worth the investment.
Why 316L stainless steel doesn't tarnish or corrode
316L stainless steel has chromium and molybdenum in it. These elements create a protective layer on the surface that stops rust and tarnish before they start. That's why pieces like the Pearl Body Chain can go in the shower, the pool, or the ocean without turning green or flaking.
Silver tarnishes. Gold can fade. Copper oxidizes. Stainless steel doesn't. If you've worn cheaper jewelry and watched it degrade in months, you already know the difference. 316L is the upgrade that actually sticks around.
This is why we chose it. We're making these pieces by hand, El and Gio pouring care into every strand. We wanted to know you could wear them every single day without babying them.
How long will your piece actually last?
With normal wear and basic care, 316L stainless steel jewelry lasts 10+ years. Some pieces last a lifetime. The chains won't break under everyday stress. The clasps won't suddenly fail. The shine stays bright.
What affects longevity? Mostly how you treat it. Chlorine pools and hot tubs can speed up surface wear over time — not rust, but micro-scratching that dulls the shine. Rough contact with concrete or metal can scratch stainless like it scratches anything else. Salt water is actually gentler than you'd think, but dried salt sitting on the metal can still cause minor issues if left unwashed.
Here's the thing though: scratches and dulling aren't failure. Your Pearl Belly Chain will still work perfectly. It just won't be mirror-polished anymore. Some people love the worn-in look. Others prefer to keep the shine intact.
How to keep your stainless steel jewelry looking new
Rinse with fresh water after swimming or sweating. Dry it with a soft cloth. That's honestly most of it. You're not trying to prevent rust — you're trying to prevent dirt and salt buildup that can dull the surface.
If your piece loses its shine over time, a quick polish with a microfiber cloth brings it back. For deeper cleaning, warm soapy water and a soft brush work fine. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive pads — they'll scratch it.
Store it somewhere dry. Moisture won't damage stainless steel, but it doesn't need to sit in humid environments either. A drawer, a jewelry box, or even just keeping it on your body most of the time is fine. When you shop all body jewelry, you're buying something meant to be worn, not locked away.
The bottom line: 316L stainless steel from Bodystrands isn't a trend piece you replace every season. It's jewelry that lives with you. Scratch it, scratch it some more, wear it through years of life — it's still going to function and look good. That's why we make everything from it.