We highly recommend watching our video on how to give your ring a professional clean:
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An engagement ring is more than just a piece of jewellery; it’s a symbol of love and commitment that deserves proper care to maintain its beauty and longevity. Regular maintenance ensures your ring continues to shine as brightly as the day you received it. In this guide, we’ll cover care tips for both gemstones and diamonds, so you can keep your ring in pristine condition.
Caring for Diamonds
Diamonds are known for their incredible hardness and durability, but they’re not completely indestructible. Proper care is essential to avoid damage and maintain their brilliance.
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Regular Cleaning: Diamonds attract grease and oil, which can dull their sparkle. Clean your diamond ring at home by soaking it in warm water with mild dish soap for 10-15 minutes, then gently brushing it with a soft toothbrush. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a lint-free cloth. See video above.
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Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Exposure to bleach, chlorine, or other harsh chemicals can weaken the metal setting and affect the diamond’s appearance. Always remove your ring before using cleaning products or swimming in chlorinated water.
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Check the Setting: Over time, prongs and other settings can loosen, increasing the risk of losing your diamond. Schedule regular inspections with your jeweller to ensure the stone is secure.
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Safe Storage: When not wearing your ring, store it in a soft, separate pouch or a jewellery box with compartments to prevent scratches from other pieces.
Caring for Gemstones
Gemstones come in a variety of types, each with unique properties and care requirements. While many gemstones are durable, they often require gentler handling than diamonds.
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Cleaning Tips: Use a similar method to cleaning diamonds—warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft toothbrush. However, be cautious with porous stones like emeralds, opals, and pearls, which can absorb liquids and oils. For these, avoid soaking and instead use a damp cloth to gently wipe them.
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Avoid Extreme Conditions: Gemstones can be sensitive to temperature changes, which may cause cracking or discoloration. Remove your ring before exposing it to extreme heat or cold.
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Protect Against Impact: Some gemstones, like emeralds and tanzanites, are more prone to chipping. Avoid wearing your ring during activities that could subject it to hard knocks or impact.
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Mind the Treatments: Many gemstones are treated to enhance their colour or clarity. For example, emeralds are often oil-treated, and these treatments can deteriorate over time. Consult your jeweller about re-treating your stone if necessary.
General Maintenance Tips
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Regular Professional Cleaning: Schedule a professional cleaning and inspection at least once a year. A jeweller can remove stubborn dirt, polish the metal, and ensure all settings are secure.
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Insurance: Consider insuring your engagement ring to protect against loss, theft, or accidental damage.
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Remove During Manual Activities: Whether gardening, exercising, or cooking, removing your ring can prevent damage to both the stone and the metal.
By following these care and maintenance tips, your engagement ring will remain as beautiful and brilliant as the moment it was placed on your finger.