Did you know that Christmas Eve is the most popular day for getting engaged? If you’re one of the many lucky ladies who said “yes” over the holidays (or if he pops the question tonight, New Year’s Eve), here are some tips for keeping that new ring shining bright!
Storage
Like any precious jewelry, you should always be very careful of the way you store your ring. Although diamonds are very hard to scratch or chip, it can happen, particularly if they are knocked against other diamonds. Because of this, and to keep your band from getting scratched up, too, you should store your ring where it won’t come into contact with other jewelry. Either wrap it in a soft cloth or pouch, or use a fabric-lined jewelry box with dividers that separate individual items.
Cleaning
If you’ve noticed that your ring has been looking a little dull lately, you can bring back its shine with a little mild dish detergent and some warm water. Dilute the detergent in three parts warm water and leave the ring to soak for a couple of hours. Once the ring has soaked, you can use a soft-bristled toothbrush (not a regular toothbrush!) to gently scrub away any leftover dirt. Pay close attention to the back of the diamond, as this is a place that tends to accumulate grime and prevent the diamond from sparkling the way it should. Finally rinse the ring in fresh water and dry it with a soft cloth. Don’t use paper products, as this can leave lint.
Things to Avoid
It’s important to be very aware of how everyday tasks can affect your ring. If you’re going to be doing any rough work with your hands, you should consider leaving it behind to avoid chipping and loosening of the setting. In addition, try to avoid touching the diamond and its setting with your fingers, as the natural oil from your skin can actually dirty it.
Many household chemicals can also be very harmful to your ring, eroding and discoloring the metal. This includes cleaning products like chlorine bleach and heavy detergents. Even hairspray or perfumes can cause damage, so be careful.
Check-ups
Diamonds can loosen in their settings over time, so it’s important to check your ring periodically to make sure everything is still secure. You should also look to make sure there’s no chipping or other signs of damage. It’s a good idea to take your ring in to your jeweler at least once a year to have it professionally inspected and cleaned.