A little regular maintenance goes a long way in keeping your engagement ring clean. Experts suggest having it professionally cleaned twice yearly to remove built-up grime, check for loose prongs and other damage, and keep it shiny and new!
You can clean your item at home by filling a bowl with lukewarm water and a drop of dishwashing soap. Soak the ring and scrub with a soft toothbrush, concentrating on any soiled areas.
Keep it Clean
Cleaning your engagement rings is integral to ring care, which helps it stay sparkling and gorgeous. Residue can build up over time, dulling the sparkle of your stone or causing tarnish on the metal, and it can also get caught in more intricate details of your ring setting.
You can clean your ring by soaking it with a gentle dish soap in warm water. Add your ring to the solution and let it soak for about 20 minutes. After wiping the surface, gently remove any remaining dirt and debris using a soft-bristle toothbrush.
Removing your ring before doing any manual labor, such as gardening or DIY projects, is also a good idea. Dirt, pebbles, and other contaminants can scratch your ring or loosen prongs holding stones.
Don’t Sleep in It
Now that you’re engaged, you probably have questions about ring care. Your engagement ring is more than just a valuable piece of jewelry; it symbolizes your love and commitment to your fiancee, so taking the proper steps to protect and care for it is essential.
Cleaning your ring regularly is essential to prevent dirt, debris, and grime buildup. It’s also a good idea to remove it when performing certain chores or applying beauty products.
Also, be sure to take your ring off before working out. Working out in your ring increases the risk of your diamond catching on something and becoming damaged, and it isn’t very hygienic! You’ll also want to take it off before swimming or kayaking. These activities are all great ways to work up a sweat, making your ring look dirty and dull!
Don’t Mix It With Other Jewelry
If you wear more than one piece of jewelry, remove your engagement ring before doing any household chores. It’s possible that your ring could get caught on something or be knocked against a hard surface, and this can damage the prongs that hold your center stone in place.
A loosened prong can lead to losing your center stone, which is a big deal sentimentally and monetarily. Even if your diamond is very durable, it’s best to play it safe and protect your ring as much as possible.
Taking your ring off before applying lotions, creams, or perfume also reduces its exposure to different chemicals. It decreases the likelihood of it getting caught on something while you’re doing a house chore.
Don’t Use Harsh Chemicals
Many cleaning products and abrasive chemicals like bleach can dull the finish of precious metals and stones. It can be especially true for rings with soft gems or delicate settings.
Removing your ring to prevent damage or discoloration is best when using chemicals. It applies to household cleaners and other substances like hand sanitizer and lotion.
Avoid soaking your ring in chemicals like hairspray, as they can leave behind a noticeable film that will diminish the sparkle of your stone and tarnish the metal. Instead, use a little vinegar or another natural but not overly harsh astringent to help lift away dirt. Then, rinse your ring and dry thoroughly. This method can be faster and easier than scrubbing with a hard-bristled brush, which may scratch and damage your ring.
Don’t Store It in a Box
Just like a pan, your jewelry box can collect tiny oil molecules that dull the sparkle of your diamonds. You can store your ring in a fabric pouch or ring roll when not wearing it to avoid damage.
Removing your ring before washing hands or using hand lotion is also a good idea. Some ingredients in hand lotions can build up and create a layer on your diamond that reduces its shine.
Finally, schedule regular cleanings to keep your engagement ring looking its best. It includes monthly inspections to ensure that prongs and stones are secure. You can do this or take your ring to a retail partner to clean it professionally. They’ll be able to use a sonic cleaner that removes the residue that can dull a diamond.
