Learn the potential downsides of lacquer jewelry (and how to fix them)
Lacquer jewelry has a lot going for it: bold colors, natural materials, and that “one-of-a-kind” vibe. But before you buy, it’s smart to know the downsides. No material is perfect, and lacquer is no exception. Below are the most common disadvantages of lacquer jewelry, plus simple ways to deal with them.
1. It Hates Harsh Chemicals & Too Much Water
Lacquer is porous—so perfume, lotion, cleaning sprays, and even sweat can mess with its color or make it peel. Unlike your stainless steel necklace, it can’t handle a quick splash of soap or a spritz of cologne.
How to fix it: Apply all beauty products (perfume, lotion, makeup) before putting on your lacquer jewelry. Wait 5 minutes for them to absorb, then slip on your accessory. Take it off before showering, swimming, or cleaning—and wipe it with a dry cloth if it gets sweaty.
2. It’s Prone to Scratches & Chips
Cured lacquer is durable, but it’s not as hard as metal or glass. Scratching it against keys, phone screens, or rough surfaces will leave marks. Intricate designs or thin lacquer layers are even more delicate.
How to fix it: Store your lacquer jewelry in a separate soft pouch or lined compartment in your jewelry box. Avoid wearing it while carrying a heavy bag (the strap can rub against it) or doing activities like gardening or sports. If it gets a small scratch, use a soft cloth to buff it gently—most minor marks will fade.
3. It’s More Expensive (Thanks to Handcrafting)
Lacquer jewelry takes weeks to make. Each layer needs time to cure, and it’s all done by hand. That means it’s usually pricier than mass-produced plastic or metal jewelry.
How to fix it: Think of lacquer jewelry as an investment. It lasts longer than fast-fashion pieces, and it has more sentimental value. If you’re on a budget, look for small lacquer accents (like earrings or charms) instead of large statement pieces.
4. Natural Lacquer Has Limited Color Options
Natural lacquer is typically earthy—think deep reds, blacks, browns, or greens. If you’re into bright neons or pastels, you’ll probably have to go with synthetic lacquer (which doesn’t last as long).
How to fix it: Embrace the rich, timeless hues of natural lacquer—they never go out of style and age beautifully. If you need bold colors, opt for high-quality synthetic lacquers with UV protection (they last longer than cheap versions).
5. It Might Irritate Sensitive Skin (Rarely)
Lacquer itself is hypoallergenic, but some people react to the base material (like nickel or cheap metal) underneath. Rarely, people have mild sensitivity to natural lacquer resin—but this is super uncommon.
How to fix it: Check the base material before buying. Look for hypoallergenic metals (titanium, stainless steel) if you have metal allergies. If you’re worried about resin sensitivity, wear the piece for a few hours first (like around the house) to test it out.
Final Takeaway
The disadvantages of lacquer jewelry are totally manageable. Most of them boil down to “treat it gently”—which you’d do for any special accessory. If you love unique, natural, handcrafted jewelry, the pros (craftsmanship, style, sustainability) far outweigh the cons. With a little care, your lacquer jewelry will be a staple in your wardrobe for years.
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