CARING FOR DIAMOND JEWELRY: A COMPLETE GUIDE
Diamond jewelry sparkles and shines, showcasing its unique attributes and bespoke design. When jewelry is purchased, it is reminiscent of a brand new car—pristine, in excellent condition, and clean from all angles, showcasing every exciting detail.
Just like an automobile, your diamond jewelry will begin to show signs of wear and tear. Maintaining your jewelry and keeping it clean restores its beauty, reminding you of its incredible presence once again.
This brief blog post will cover the basics of diamond jewelry cleaning. Taking good care of your jewelry is very important– experience the ultimate fire from your diamonds by keeping them in good condition.
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DIAMOND SURFACE
According to the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), diamonds are “natural magnets for grease.” The surface of the diamond adheres to the oils from your skin or other objects, coating it with a visible greasy film. This built-up residue affects the diamond’s scintillation, dulling its breathtaking sparkle.
The diamond’s surface easily collects dust, dirt, lotion, soaps, and perfume, in addition to other beauty and cleaning products. This debris may be particularly noticeable around the setting, such as the prongs or the rim of a bezel. This cakey build-up occurs with ALL diamonds, regardless of cut, quality, karat, shape, or even in its raw form.
Advice: Removing your diamond ring, necklace, or bracelet before applying lotions, cosmetics, hair products, or using cleaning products will reduce the amount of built-up residue. Avoid touching the diamond directly with the fingertips, passing the oils from the hand to the stone.
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DIAMONDS: CAN THEY BE DAMAGED?
Diamonds are famously known as one of the hardest minerals on earth, rating a 10/10 on the Mohs hardness scale. Diamonds are cut using diamond dust! Diamond dust is also frequently used to fashion other gemstones and materials.
Did you know? Diamonds can chip or crack under certain circumstances, despite their hardness. They can also break, although this occurrence is rarer.
Diamonds can scratch other jewelry and softer colored stones if stored incorrectly. Storing your diamond jewelry away from other accessories, removing your jewelry during strenuous labor using your hands, and not dropping your diamond jewelry on a hard surface will help keep it safe.
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HOW TO CLEAN YOUR DIAMOND JEWELRY
There are a few simple ways to keep your diamond jewelry clean. Do not clean your diamond jewelry using household cleaning products (bleach), makeup remover, or any other harsh solution with chemicals.
A FEW SIMPLE OPTIONS
Always treat your diamond jewelry gently and with the utmost care. Scrubbing the jewelry aggressively may damage the setting. Gingerly handling your jewelry will be effective during the cleaning process.
Ultrasonic Cleaner:
Ultrasonic cleaners are the perfect solution for removing dirt, debris, and significant build-up. However, ultrasonic cleaners should be used with caution. Heavily included diamonds may fracture in an ultrasonic cleaner. Gold plated jewelry, color-enhanced gems, and fracture-filled stones should not be placed in an ultrasonic cleaner.
Liquid Jewelry Cleaner:
Much like an ultrasonic cleaner, at-home liquid jewelry cleaners should only be used sparingly. This liquid chemical may cause harm for items that cannot withstand the chemical solution. Please check with your jewelry professional before using either a liquid jewelry cleaner or ultrasonic.
Warm Soapy Water:
Diamonds repel water, making them harder to clean if only water is used. Mixing hypoallergenic, mild soap and warm water creates the perfect combination for cleaning most diamond jewelry.
Soaking the jewelry in the soapy water for a few minutes loosens the debris. Using a soft toothbrush will remove any lingering build-up. Running the jewelry under clean water, then patting dry with a soft cloth reveals its beauty once again.
Jewelry Cloth:
Jewelry cloths are an affordable, quick, and easy alternative. Although not as thorough as warm soapy water, jewelry cloths provide a topical clean that lifts residue from the surface temporarily.
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PROFESSIONAL JEWELRY SERVICES
Consulting a professional periodically about maintenance is advisable. A professional may identify loose stones not immediately noticeable.
Diamond jewelry may need to be re-pronged or have the prongs tightened. The prongs are metal tips that keep the stone in place. Snagging your jewelry or wearing it frequently loosens the prongs. Professional cleaning, buffing, and polishing services will remove scratches and dullness for your piece.
Taking good care of your favorite treasured keepsakes will extend its life for years to come.