It’s important to understand how to maintain your diamond jewelry correctly. Maintenance involves not only cleaning but also additional care and security.
Why Maintain Your Diamond Jewelry?
When you purchase a piece of diamond jewelry, you might not necessarily think about the maintenance it will require in the future. Most people have the misconception that by simply wearing diamond rings, necklaces, or earrings, they will remain forever shiny and new. However, like anything else, they require a bit of love and care to keep their sparkle.
Maintaining Shine and Brilliance
The way a piece of diamond jewelry sparkles is precisely what makes it so beautiful and is a significant aspect of its appeal. You want to maintain your diamond jewelry to keep it as brilliant as possible.
Preserving its Value
Every piece of diamond jewelry carries a certain value due to its gemstones. By keeping your diamond jewelry clean and well-maintained, you can help preserve its value for potential future sales.
Avoiding Expensive Repairs and Maintenance
Without proper care and cleaning, your diamond jewelry can become scratched, flawed, and lose its shine. Lack of maintenance can also lead to damage that requires professional repairs. By maintaining your diamond jewelry, you can avoid these costly issues.
Preventing Loss, Theft, or Damage
For such precious jewelry, any item containing diamonds is susceptible to loss, theft, and damage. There are professional methods available to protect your jewelry from any potential issues.
How to Clean a Diamond Ring
Even if you’re careful, your diamond ring is likely to come into contact with oils and dirt, which can damage its surface. You can take some measures to avoid scratches and damage, and learning how to clean a diamond ring will ensure you maintain its shine and brilliance for as long as possible.
Wipe Daily to Remove Dirt and Oils
Regularly clean the diamond to prevent it from being contaminated with lotions, skin oils, and dirt, which can make it look cloudy. At the end of each day, wipe it with a soft cloth (even your own shirt) to keep it sparkling. You can also wipe jewelry with a soft chamois or microfiber cloth after each wear to remove oils and salts.
Clean Dirt with Water and Dish Soap
Soak the diamond in a mixture of warm water and dish soap. Tracy Lantz, deputy director of public relations for the Diamond Information Center, suggests using a soft toothbrush to scrub gently. Do this at least once a month.
Loosen Dirt with Ammonia and Cold Water
Soak the diamond in a 50:50 mixture of ammonia (such as window cleaner) and cold water for 30 minutes. Then let it air dry. Be sure to use it only for real diamonds, as ammonia can damage other gemstones. Do this once or twice a week.
What is the Safest Way to Clean a Diamond?
The safest way to clean a diamond is to use simple and gentle methods. First, mix warm water and mild dish soap. Soak the diamond ring in the solution for a few minutes to remove dirt and residue. Then, use a soft-bristled toothbrush or clean, lint-free cloth to gently scrub the diamond and its setting. Ensure you reach all crevices and corners. Rinse the ring thoroughly with warm water to remove any soap residue. Finally, pat dry with a clean cloth or allow it to air dry. Avoid using abrasive chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage the diamond.
How to Clean a Diamond Necklace or Earrings
While the frequency of wearing necklaces or earrings may not be as high as rings, it doesn’t mean they won’t come into contact with oils and dirt that can damage their surface. Here are two simple methods for cleaning diamond necklaces or earrings.
Use Jewelry Cleaner
If you prefer not to use household cleaners, you can opt to purchase specialized jewelry cleaner. You can find these cleaners at any local jewelry store and use them according to the instructions on the label.
Use Baking Soda
Baking soda is ideal for cleaning all types of jewelry, including diamond jewelry. Mix one cup of hot water with 1-2 teaspoons of baking soda. Place the jewelry in the mixture for a few minutes. Rinse and pat dry with a clean cloth. Alternatively, you can make a paste with 1/4 cup of baking soda and two tablespoons of water. Apply this paste to the jewelry, then scrub with a brush or cloth.
Once you’ve removed dirt from your diamond jewelry, you can employ some methods to restore its original shine and brilliance.
How Often Should I Clean My Diamond Ring?
It’s best to clean your diamond ring regularly, ideally every 1-2 weeks or whenever it appears visibly dirty or loses its shine.
Will Diamonds Lose Their Sparkle?
No, diamonds do not lose their sparkle over time. Diamonds are known for their exceptional durability and ability to retain their brilliance. However, factors such as dirt, oils, or residue can accumulate on the surface of the diamond, weakening its shine. Regular cleaning can remove these substances, effortlessly restoring the diamond’s sparkle and allowing it to fulfill its full potential. By keeping your diamonds clean and well-maintained, you can ensure they continue to shine brightly for years to come.
