You've just taken your sparkler out of the safe deposit box (or, you know, your jewelry drawer) to show it off, and—gasp!—it's not as bright and shiny as it was before. What gives? Don't worry; we're here to help. Below are some tips for cleaning your diamond ring (or any other piece of diamond jewelry, for that matter). Just follow these simple steps, and your diamond will be looking like new in no time.
What Materials Do I Need to Clean My Diamond Ring?
Before you get started, you'll need a few supplies: ammonia, distilled water, a soft-bristled brush, and a polishing cloth.
Mix one part ammonia with three parts distilled water in a small bowl. Soak your brush in the mixture and gently scrub your diamond ring. Rinse the ring with distilled water and dry it with the polishing cloth.
How to Thoroughly Clean Your Diamond Ring at Home Like a Professional
There are a few tried-and-true methods that jewelry experts recommend using to clean your diamond ring at home. One approach is called the "soapy water" procedure, and it involves creating a solution of water and mild dish soap and then letting your diamond ring sit in the solution for around 15 minutes. Scrub the diamond and any other jewelry items carefully with a gentle motion using a soft toothbrush. After giving it a thorough wash in warm water, pat it dry with a clean, soft towel.
A polishing cloth is an additional professional method that can be used to clean your diamond ring. Diamonds and other jewels may be cleaned using these specialized towels, which were made for the purpose. Simply cleaning the diamond requires you to massage it in a circular manner until it is spotless. Take care not to apply an excessive amount of pressure to the diamond, since this might cause it to get damaged.
Benefits of Professional Cleaning for Diamond Rings
While you may be tempted to clean your diamond ring at home with a variety of common household items, it's always best to have a professional do it. Here are just a few of the benefits:
- Professionals have the right tools and know-how to clean your ring well and get rid of any dirt, debris, or stains that have built up.
- They can check for any damage that may have happened and suggest what repairs should be done.
- Professional cleaning will bring back the shine and brilliance of your ring and may even help it last longer.
Understanding the Different Types of Jewelry Cleaners
Not all cleaners are created equal, and you definitely don't want to use the wrong one on your delicate diamond jewelry. Here's a quick rundown of the different types of cleaners you'll come across and when you should use them.
- Mild dish soap and water: This is always a good starting point for cleaning your diamond ring. Just make sure you use a mild dish soap—you don't want anything too harsh that could damage your ring.
- Jewelry cleaning solution: You can find this at most jewelry stores, and it's usually pretty affordable. Just make sure to read the instructions on the bottle carefully so you know how to use it properly.
- Ultrasonic cleaner: This is a more high-tech option, and it uses sound waves to clean your jewelry. If you have one of these at home, you can definitely use it to clean your diamond ring—just be careful not to leave it in the cleaner for too long, as it could damage your ring.
Dos and Don’ts When Cleaning Your Diamond Ring
Once you've got your diamond ring, you'll want to do everything you can to keep it clean and sparkling. Here are some dos and don'ts when it comes to cleaning your diamond ring:
- Do get your diamond ring professionally cleaned at least once a year. A professional will be able to clean your ring in a way that you can't, and they'll also be able to check for any loose stones or other damage.
- Don't use harsh chemicals or cleaners on your diamond ring. This can damage the diamond or the setting. Instead, stick to mild soap and water.
- Soak your diamond ring in a solution of dish soap and water for about 20 minutes if it's particularly dirty. This will help loosen any dirt or grime that's built up on the diamond.
- Don't use a toothbrush or other abrasive materials to clean your diamond ring. This can scratch the diamond. Instead, use a soft, lint-free cloth.
Symptoms of Needing Professional Jewelry Cleaning
One telltale sign that your diamond ring might need a professional cleaning is if you notice that the sparkle isn’t as intense as it used to be. If your diamond looks dull, it might be because it’s covered in a film of oil, soap, or cosmetics.
Another sign is if you see dirt or grime accumulating under the gemstone or around the setting. This is especially common if you wear your ring daily and don’t take it off for things like applying lotion or washing your hands.
Professional jewelers have ultrasonic cleaners and steamers that can get your ring looking brand new again. They also have the expertise to spot any damage that might need to be repaired and can do a thorough cleaning without damaging the setting or gemstone.
Conclusion
So, how do you clean your diamond ring? It’s actually easier than you might think. Here are a few tips to get you started:
Use a mild dish soap: A small amount of dish soap (no harsher than what you would use on your dishes) can be used to clean your diamond ring. Be sure to rinse it well afterwards.
Use a toothbrush: A toothbrush is a great way to get into all the nooks and crannies of your diamond ring. It will help remove any built-up dirt or grime.
Use a soft cloth: After you’ve cleaned your diamond ring with a toothbrush, use a soft cloth to polish it up.
Following these tips will help keep your diamond ring looking sparkly and new.
