How To Care For Your Diamond Engagement Ring

If you're not used to wearing fine jewelry and suddenly find yourself the proud owner of a diamond engagement ring, you most likely have questions about how to take care of it. The good news is that it's easy to keep your investment piece looking its best for years to come with a little tender loving care.

Diamonds are graded on the "4Cs" scale, which stands for color, cut, clarity, and carat weight. Where your ring lands on this scale determines its price and overall value, but the care instructions are the same no matter how it rates. It's important to take proper care of your diamond regardless of its rating, as they all share the same qualities. 

Another thing that determines the engagement ring's value is what type of metal the band is made of, such as silver, white or yellow gold. Some are also comprised of platinum gold, which is the most expensive type, or sterling silver, which is the least costly. While gold is a softer material than silver, you'll still want to handle it the same way to protect the ring's luster and durability. 

Following are some tips for caring for your diamond engagement ring:

1. Remove the Ring 

One of the most important things you can do to extend the life and beauty of your ring is to remove it during certain circumstances. For instance, be sure to take your ring off before cleaning with any harsh chemicals, such as ammonia or bleach, which can harm both the gemstones and the band. If you don't want to remove your ring, wear protective gloves instead. 

If you take your ring off to wash your hands when out in a public place, such as a restaurant, make sure you don't leave it behind. Also, you don't need to remove your ring every time you wash your hands as long as you're using a gentle cleanser. Consider taking the band off before doing any vigorous activities with your hands, including playing sports, raking, or shoveling. 

2. Clean the Ring 

Another simple way to maintain the integrity of your ring is by cleaning it on a daily basis. Over time, the ring's shine may be dulled by lotion, soap, and other chemicals, and they may also build up in the gemstone's prongs. 

Either once a week or monthly, depending on how much wear and tear your ring gets, clean it in a mixture of warm water and a gentle dishwashing soap. Work the soapy mixture into the ring using a soft toothbrush, rinse clean with warm water, and pat dry. You can also use a cleaner that is specifically made for use on diamonds and the type of metal band you have. 

Visit a local jewelry store to learn more about caring for women's engagement rings.