5 Everyday Mistakes That Make Your Gemstone Bracelet Break Faster

Introduction – It’s Not the Bracelet, It’s the Habit

You’ve just invested in a beautiful gemstone bracelet. The colors are vibrant, the knots are tight, and it feels perfect on your wrist. But then — just a few months in — the elastic loosens, the thread frays, or worse, it snaps completely.

Most people think, “Oh, the bracelet wasn’t good quality.”
But here’s the truth: more often than not, it’s our daily habits that shorten the lifespan of a bracelet.

In this post, we’ll uncover the 5 most common mistakes people make without realizing — and how to avoid them so your gemstone bracelet lasts much longer.

1. Wearing It in the Shower, Pool, or Ocean

Water is one of the biggest culprits. While it seems harmless, constant exposure to water damages both threads and gemstones:

• Elastic cords lose their stretch when soaked repeatedly.

• Macramé knots weaken and unravel faster.

• Chlorine and saltwater erode threads, tarnish metal accents, and dull gemstone colors.

💡 Fix: Treat your bracelet like silk or leather — keep it dry. Remove it before swimming, showering, or washing dishes.

2. Sleeping With Your Bracelet On

It feels comforting to keep your bracelet on overnight, but your sleep routine can be rougher than you think:

• Tossing and turning stretches or pulls the thread.

• Stones may knock against hard surfaces, leaving scratches.

• The bracelet can catch on bedding, loosening knots or snapping elastic.

💡 Fix: Make removing your bracelet part of your bedtime ritual. Place it in a soft pouch by your bedside — safe and ready for the morning.

3. Stretching the Bracelet Too Much

It’s tempting to slide an elastic bracelet on by stretching it wide over your hand. But this habit puts unnecessary strain on the cord. Over time, the elastic loses its strength and eventually breaks.

💡 Fix: Roll the bracelet gently over your fingers instead of pulling it wide. It takes a second longer but saves months of wear.

4. Letting Skincare and Perfume Touch It

Lotions, perfumes, and even hand sanitizers may make you feel fresh, but they don’t do your bracelet any favors:

• Oils and creams leave residue that makes gemstones look cloudy.

• Alcohol in sanitizers and perfumes dries out elastic and thread fibers.

• Some chemicals even stain or etch softer stones like turquoise or lapis lazuli.

💡 Fix: Apply skincare and perfume first, let them absorb, then put your bracelet on. Think: skin first, bracelet second.

5. Wearing the Same Bracelet Every Single Day

We get it — you love it. But even the strongest bracelet needs a break. Daily wear exposes it to constant friction, sweat, and pressure.

💡 Fix: Rotate your collection. Have 2–3 favorite bracelets and switch them out. This not only preserves their life but also keeps your style fresh.

Bonus Tip – Know When to Restring

Even with the best care, elastic and thread eventually weaken. The key is not to wait until it snaps unexpectedly.

• If elastic looks white, thin, or stretched → it’s time to restring.

• Many artisans (including Samapura) offer restringing services to extend your bracelet’s life.

Closing – A Little Care Goes a Long Way

Gemstone bracelets are handcrafted treasures, and like anything precious, they need mindful care. By avoiding these 5 everyday mistakes, you’re not just protecting a piece of jewelry — you’re honoring the intention and story behind it.

So the next time you reach for your bracelet, remember: it’s not just about how it looks today, but how it will continue to shine with you for years to come.

💎 Discover bracelets handcrafted in Bali with intention and care — designed to last longer, shine brighter, and carry meaning with every wear.