Brand new diamond rings sparkle like the stars in the sky. But we wear them day in and day out, so they collect dust, dirt, soap residue, hair spray, lotion and more. And before you know it, your ring’s lustre has lost its pizazz.
But that doesn’t mean you have to resign yourself to memories of its previous glory. On the contrary, all it takes is a good cleaning to restore your diamond ring to showstopper status.
Over the years, we’ve heard plenty of good questions about cleaning diamond rings. So we’ve compiled them here by categories. In other words, you’re about to embark on the ultimate ring-cleaning FAQ.
Cleaning Your Ring at Home
Diamonds sparkle because of their facets. They work like tiny mirrors, reflecting light as it travels in and out of the gemstone. You can keep those facets shining with regular cleaning performed at home.
What kind of cleaning agents should I use for a diamond ring?
When you Google this question, you’ll come up with plenty of options--everything from commercially prepared solutions to tomato sauce!
When it comes down to it, you need a mild cleanser that can cut through grease and grime. For instance, a mild dish soap mixed with warm water will do the trick. If you prefer, however, you can purchase quick dip solutions from your favourite jeweller.
What tools do I need for cleaning my diamond ring?
To clean your engagement ring, you’ll need a few basic supplies you probably already have on hand.
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Mild dish soap
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Warm water
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Small bowl
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Soft toothbrush
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Soft cloth.
How do I clean my ring?
Start by filling the small bowl with enough water to cover your ring. Next, add 2-3 drops of dish soap and mix it into the water until it’s dissolved.
Place your diamond ring in the solution and let it soak for about 20 minutes. This soaking period loosens up any hardened grime. Next, gently brush the diamond with the toothbrush, especially around the prongs and underneath the setting. After you’ve finished brushing it, rinse the ring under warm running water and dry it with a soft cloth.
When you rinse the ring, be sure to close the sink drain so there’s no chance it can fall through!
Can I use toothpaste to clean my diamond ring?
Some people recommend using toothpaste to clean up a dirty ring. We don’t recommend this because some pastes include abrasive particles that can cause tiny scratches. If you worry that your ring is too dirty for a standard home cleaning, take it to your favourite jeweller so they can work their magic.
How often should I clean my ring at home?
Let’s face it. Some rings get dirtier than others. For example, if you spend much time in the garden or wear your ring in the kitchen, you might need to clean it weekly. On the other hand, if you remove your ring when you slather on the lotion and take precautions regarding wearing it outside, you might get away with a monthly cleaning.
Having Your Ring Cleaned Professionally
Even if you clean your ring at home, you might want to get a professional cleaning now and then. What questions might you have?
How do jewellers polish a ring?
Jewellers often use high-powered polishing machines to remove all the tiny scratches accumulated through daily wear and tear. When they’re done, your precious metal will look brand new.
What is ultrasonic cleaning?
Some jewellers use an ultrasonic cleaner, which uses ultrasound to agitate a cleaning solvent. The process loosens up bits of dirt and grime that may be trapped in the nooks and crevices of a diamond ring’s setting. The jeweller will often leave the ring in the ultrasonic cleaner for several minutes.
Are there any other steps a jeweller might take?
Your jeweller may also use steam to clean your diamond ring. A shot of steam finishes the process nicely and makes sure your sparkler is sanitised.
What else does a jeweller do in a professional cleaning?
After your diamond ring has made it through the polishing, ultrasonic cleaning and steam treatment, your jeweller will probably take a close look at it with a loupe. With everything clean and easy-to-see, this is the perfect time to inspect for loose stones, problematic prongs and other potential problems.
Other Cleaning Questions
Do different precious metals require different cleaning methods?
Some precious metals require more attention than others. Silver, for instance, tarnishes over time, and you’ll need to polish it regularly to keep it looking its best.
White gold is actually yellow gold plated with rhodium, and over time, the plating can degenerate. If you notice the yellow beginning to peek through, return to your jeweller for replating. It’s a relatively inexpensive process.
Platinum, yellow gold and rose gold require less care than silver and white gold, but they may receive scratches from time to time. When you take your ring in for professional cleaning, your jeweller can polish it up as good as new.
What else can I do to protect my precious ring?
To keep your ring safe and sound, remove it before you swim, play sports or dig in the garden. It’s also helpful to remove it when you use lotions, hair sprays and cleaning chemicals.
And for the ultimate protection, safeguard your diamond ring with JewelCover insurance. Our specialised cover protects your ring from damage, theft, loss and more, and you’ll be surprised by how little it costs.
To receive a free, instant quote, fill out this form or call us at 1300 522 808. We love jewellery as much as you do, and we’re here to help!