Diamonds give you a surge of self-confidence just by wearing them. And since diamond rings are usually a symbol of eternal love, women wear them almost every day. Even though these nearly perfect stones are almost unbreakable, they unfortunately have to be constantly cleaned. We are here to teach you why, when and how to clean a diamond ring and keep its brilliance as long as possible.
How to Clean a Diamond Ring in a Few Steps
First of all, you must know that there are different ways to clean a diamond ring depending on what you have at home. From dishwashing soap to baking powder to ketchup, there are quick and safe solutions to make your engagement ring shine brighter than the day you first put it on your finger.
In this article, we will focus on just one of many options along with guidelines on how to protect both yourself and the ring during cleaning.
Steps To Cleaning Process
Prepare a solution of mild dishwashing detergent or liquid soap and warm (not lukewarm, nor hot) water.
- Soak the diamond ring in the mixture and leave it there for 20 minutes. If the ring is very dirty, leave it in water for 30-40 minutes.
- Wipe the ring with a very soft brush and clean it carefully. Make sure that the brush is free of bristles, as these could damage the metal frame of the ring.
- Also concentrate on cleaning the prongs (they are located near and under the diamond), which could hide dirt and debris. The ring could appear dull there, as there is a layer of grease in this area. Clean it with a soft toothbrush.
- Swirl the ring in the solution. Then let it soak for three minutes.
- Rinse the diamond ring thoroughly in warm water.
- Dry it with a lint-free cloth, a cotton cloth or let it air dry. Do not use paper towels, as they may scratch the diamond by rubbing it.
Words of Warning
Despite thorough washing, the ring may still have stains due to cosmetics such as hairspray, perfume, make-up, and other products. You can also use shampoo and body wash. However, be careful to avoid products with moisturizing properties as they leave a film on the ring.
This may seem as obvious as the sun, but remember to plug the drain when you wash the ring. You will clean the sink later. In the meantime, closing the drain will keep the ring safe and you will have full control over the cleaning process.
Keep the toothbrush you use during the process as an exclusive tool for washing jewelry. This will keep it soft and free of dirt from other objects that could damage the ring. An engagement ring or a first-date gift is just as important when a diamond is involved. Therefore, you should protect it.
You should analyze the dirt, as most of the make-up and dirt accumulation is easy to clean. However, if there are color or chemical stains, you should get it cleaned by a professional jeweler.
What Not To Do When Washing a Diamond Ring
Never use bleach, chlorine, or acetone as these are too aggressive for the diamond.
Also, avoid throwing your jewelry into a fashionable ultrasonic cleaner if you want the diamond to look clean and fresh. They emit vibrations that could cause gems to loosen or fall out of the ring. Professional jewelers check the stones for their integrity and take necessary measures on the spot.
Chlorine and chemical detergents can damage a ring without leaving any possibility to repair it. These products, as well as toothpaste, powder cleaner or baking powder, scratch metals (especially gold) and even dissolve some non-precious objects from the ring structure.
When to Clean a Diamond Ring?
- Every diamond ring should be cleaned every other week if worn daily. This way you will keep skin, oil, and dust deposits away.
- You should take the ring to a professional jewellery cleaning twice a year. You can go once every four months if you want to. Professionals go through diamond cutting schools and maintenance courses that teach them the technical specifications you don’t know about.
How to Protect a Diamond Ring?
- Wear gloves every time you wash dishes or use detergents that could damage the integrity of your ring. Be sure to remove the ring if you need to use chlorine or detergents.
- Do not wear the ring when washing your hands. Soap residue could cause it to slip and go down the drain.
- Avoid wearing the ring while applying creams and lotions. Residues accumulate in the ring, making it dirty and even discolored. White gold and platinum are sensitive to creamy products.
- Remove the ring when cooking to avoid food and oils getting stuck under the diamond.
- Do not hit the ring on hard objects, as the metal setting could come loose or splinter. Remove the ring when handling furniture.
- Maintain a “safe place” in the house where you can keep your ring if you find yourself in any of the above situations.
- Keep up to date on maintenance dates under warranty. Regular inspections prevent the possibility of the diamond falling out or coming loose.
Wrap Up
Despite proper maintenance, you may lose some of the shine that your diamond ring used to have. You should know how to clean a diamond ring and repeat the process mentioned above.
Diamonds are for eternity, but it is your job to keep them sparkling and enchanting. Use these tips to get flawless-looking diamond rings!
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