06/28/2025
Myth or Fact: Does Sparkly Jewelry Attract Ocean Animals?
Does Sparkly Jewelry Attract Barracudas, Fish, or Sharks? Myth vs. Truth
If you’re planning to wear your favorite diamond ring or shiny gold necklace while swimming or snorkeling, you might be wondering: Can sparkly jewelry attract barracudas, fish, or sharks? This is a common concern, especially in tropical ocean waters like those around St. Thomas.
Let’s separate myth from fact and explore how marine life really reacts to shiny jewelry underwater.
The Myth: Jewelry Attracts Barracudas and Other Fish
Many believe that reflective, sparkly jewelry mimics fish scales and flashes underwater, which might lure curious predators like barracudas or other fish right to you.
Barracudas are known for their sharp eyesight and curious nature, and some say they may be attracted to the glimmer of polished metals or diamonds, mistaking them for prey.
The Truth About Sharks and Sparkly Jewelry
Sharks have excellent vision, particularly in detecting contrasts and movement.
The flash of diamond facets or polished metal can resemble the shimmer of fish scales — potential prey — which may prompt sharks to investigate.
However, shark attacks triggered by jewelry are extremely rare. Most shark incidents occur due to splashing or sudden movements, not because of shiny jewelry.
Experts suggest removing reflective jewelry when swimming in deep or murky waters just to be safe, especially if you’re snorkeling or diving where visibility varies.
Barracuda Behavior and Jewelry: What You Need to Know
Barracudas are curious and fast predators that rely heavily on sight to hunt.
They may investigate flashing or sparkling objects, including jewelry, especially if it resembles the scales of smaller fish.
This doesn’t mean they will attack you, but their curiosity might lead to a closer approach.
Wearing large, shiny, dangling jewelry can increase attention from barracudas and other fish.
Why Wearing Jewelry in the Ocean Is Risky Beyond Marine Life
Even if you’re not worried about attracting sharks or barracudas, the ocean poses other risks to your precious jewelry:
Saltwater corrosion can damage softer metals like gold or silver.
Sand particles can scratch stones or get trapped in settings, weakening them over time.
Cold water shrinks fingers, increasing the chance your ring could slip off and get lost.
Strong currents and waves can cause jewelry to loosen or fall off.
Tips for Wearing Jewelry Near the Ocean Safely
Avoid wearing sparkly or dangling jewelry if you’re swimming or snorkeling.
If you want to wear jewelry, choose simple, secure pieces like tight-fitting stud earrings or silicone rings.
Remove your engagement or wedding rings before entering the water.
Take photos with your jewelry on, then safely store it while enjoying ocean activities.
How to Care for Your Jewelry After Ocean Exposure
Rinse jewelry in fresh, lukewarm water immediately after contact with saltwater.
Gently clean with a soft toothbrush to remove salt and sand.
Dry thoroughly with a soft cloth.
Schedule regular cleanings and inspections with a jeweler to ensure settings remain secure.
While shiny jewelry can attract the attention of barracudas, fish, or even sharks, the risk of an aggressive encounter is very low. The real danger lies in losing or damaging your valuable pieces to the harsh ocean environment.
Planning a trip to the beach or snorkeling around the Virgin Islands? Consider leaving your sparkle safely ashore — your jewelry (and the curious marine life!) will thank you.