Sparkle & Shine: How to Clean an Engagement Ring
Engagement rings are one of the most beautiful and unique accessories that you wear on a daily basis. They’re a reflection of your personal style and taste, and more importantly– a symbol of your love and commitment to your partner. However, daily wear of these precious gems can lead to a build-up of dirt and grime, but don’t worry- we’re outlining the steps you can take to keep your sparkler shiny and new. In fact, we recommend cleaning your ring every week to ensure the diamonds or gemstones stay clean and beautiful.
Here are the steps you can follow:
- Prepare a cleaning solution: You can create a cleaning solution by mixing warm water with a mild detergent such as dish soap. Do not use harsh chemicals or bleach as they can damage the diamond or the metal.
- Soak the ring: Place the diamond ring in the cleaning solution and let it soak for about 20-30 minutes. This will help loosen any dirt or grime that has accumulated on the ring.
- Scrub the ring: After the ring has soaked, use a soft-bristled toothbrush or a brush specifically designed for jewelry cleaning to gently scrub the diamond and the metal. Be sure to get into all the crevices and corners of the ring.
- Rinse the ring: Rinse the ring under running water to remove any soap residue. Be sure to hold the ring over a strainer or plug the sink so that it doesn't accidentally fall down the drain.
- Dry the ring: Pat the ring dry with a clean, lint-free cloth. Avoid using paper towels or tissues as they can leave behind small fibers that can scratch the diamond or the metal.
- Optional: You can use a jewelry polishing cloth to give your diamond ring a final shine.
It's important to note that if your diamond ring has any delicate settings or if it's an antique, it's best to have it cleaned by a professional jeweler to avoid causing any damage. Faithful Platform customers are always welcome to stop by our office for complimentary cleanings or request our advice on a ring cleaning kit that can be mailed to them for easy at-home care.
The cleaning process described above is generally safe for many types of gemstones, but there are some exceptions. Here are a few guidelines to follow:
- Softer gemstones such as opals, pearls, and turquoise are more delicate and can be easily damaged by chemicals and abrasives. For these gemstones, it's best to avoid using soap and water and instead use a soft, damp cloth to wipe the surface gently.
- Porous gemstones like emeralds and opals can absorb liquids and dirt, so it's important to avoid soaking them in water or other cleaning solutions. Instead, wipe them gently with a damp cloth.
- Some gemstones are sensitive to temperature changes and can crack or fracture if exposed to hot water or steam. Examples of these types of stones include emeralds, pearls, and opals. It's important to avoid using hot water or steam to clean these stones.
- Some gemstones may have been treated with oils or other substances to enhance their appearance. In these cases, it's best to avoid using soap and water, as these can remove the treatment and affect the stone's appearance. Instead, use a soft, dry cloth to gently wipe the surface of the stone.
If you're unsure about how to clean a particular gemstone, it's always best to consult us or another professional jeweler. We would be happy to advise you on the best cleaning methods and any precautions you should take to avoid damaging the stone.
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@faithfulplatformrings | faithfulplatform.com
