That diamond ring on your finger deserves to radiate all its brilliance. But, over time, everyday life can dull a diamond’s shine. Fortunately, you can restore that swoon-worthy sparkle with a few everyday items you already have at home. Here’s what you need to know about how to clean a diamond ring, whether it’s your engagement ring or an anniversary band.
What you need
You can use a jeweler-approved cleaner, but you don’t need anything fancy to clean your ring. But here’s what to round up to get started cleaning a diamond ring:
- Mild dish soap
- Warm water
- A soft-bristled toothbrush
- A small bowl
- A lint-free cloth or soft towel
How to clean a diamond ring at home
The key to restoring your diamond’s sparkle is using gentle methods that lift dirt without damaging the setting or stone. Here are two tried-and-true methods using the above items:
Soap and water for everyday cleaning
This method safely breaks down oils and buildup, showcasing your diamond’s natural brilliance. This method safely breaks down oils and buildup, showcasing your diamond’s natural brilliance.
- Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water.
- Let your ring soak for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Gently brush the ring to remove loosened debris.
- Rinse thoroughly under warm running water.
- Pat dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.
Soft-brush cleaning method for under the stone
Under and around the diamond, especially near the prongs, collects the most dirt and buildup, which blocks light and reduces the sparkle of your stone. To clean it:
- Use a soft toothbrush to get beneath the setting.
- Focus on the back of the stone and around the prongs.
- Use light pressure to avoid damaging the setting.
What to avoid when cleaning diamond rings
While diamonds are incredibly durable, the setting that holds them in place can be more delicate. Here are a few things to steer clear of when cleaning a diamond ring:
- Stay away from harsh chemicals, like vinegar, bleach or ammonia. These can not only damage the metal and discolor certain sittings, but they can also weaken the structural integrity of your prongs over time.
- Avoid loosening prongs by using hard or abrasive brushes, scrubbing too hard, or applying too much pressure to the diamond. Prongs are what keep the diamond in place, and weakened ones may cause your diamond to fall out of its setting.
How often should you clean your ring?
Cleaning your ring weekly is important, especially if it’s a piece you wear daily, like your engagement ring or bridal set. This will keep buildup at bay, helping your diamond retain its sparkle and your setting to keep its shine.
When to get a professional cleaning?
Even with at-home care, you should try and get a professional cleaning every 6 months to a year. A deep cleaning from a professional jeweler can help ensure your setting remains secure, and it can eliminate any buildup in those hard-to-reach crevices.
At Helzberg, we offer free, in-store cleaning and inspections for any piece of jewelry. And if you have a Helzberg care plan, your six-month inspection includes free repairs, resizing, stone and setting tightening, refinishing and polishing. Find more jewelry care resources on our website to help ensure your diamond jewelry lasts for generations to come.