Credits: www.thespruce.com
The engagement ring is an expensive jewel and it also has an enormous sentimental value, therefore it is obvious that you never want to take it off your finger!
However, if you wear it on a daily basis, after a while, thin layers of grime form and same could dim its beauty and sparkle. The ring may appear faded because shampoo, hand lotions, cooking oils, various sprays and sweat get into the nooks with the risk of loosening the setting. Basically, imagine this film of dirt as plaque on your teeth: unpleasant to look at and dangerous for your health.
As a general rule, remember that it’s wise to remove the ring when you are gardening, washing dishes, cooking, showering and applying your hand cream because bacteria, sand and dirt could get into the crannies of your band or rub against the metal. In the long run, the setting may suffer and become less durable. The last thing we want is to lose the stones! Also avoid contact with abrasive surfaces and bleach, which can seriously corrode gold.
I do not recommend carrying out manual work wearing diamond jewelry: it is true that diamonds are the hardest stones in the world, however they can chip if they get struck at the right angle!
Some precious stones are delicate and can get scratched: amethyst, emerald, opal, tanzanite, pearls are some of the gems to pay more attention to.
So, remember to take off your rings before starting manual works.
If despite all the attention, you notice that your ring is shining less than usual, even under a good light exposure, maybe it’s time to give it a clean.
It is a good habit to take the ring to your trusted jeweler once a year. Each jewel is unique with different gemstones, metals and settings and your jeweler will be able to clean it thoroughly and then will assess the setting health conditions. Let’s say it is a bit like having a car serviced and it is a useful operation, especially if you wear your ring very frequently.
A professional jeweler will offer a competent and precise cleaning, however please note it is possible to clean your jewelry at home from time to time. There are many jewelry cleaning products on the market, but avoid buying products containing ammonia.
Personally, I don’t like products with chemical ingredients and I prefer another procedure that simply requires a few drops of neutral soap. It is really a kids play and I often prepare it because it takes a little time and gives excellent results!
Equip yourself with:
- a bowl
- liquid soap
- a soft bristled toothbrush
- a delicate, lint-free cloth
As obvious as it may seem, don’t clean over the sink, especially if it doesn’t have a stopper! I can’t imagine a precious ring falling down the drain …
Proceed as follows: fill the bowl with warm water and then add a few drops of liquid soap. Place the ring inside the bowl and let it soak for about 15 minutes. This operation will make the dirt particles expand and loosen, so they will be easily removed.
After 15 minutes, gently scrub the ring with your toothbrush, paying attention to crannies, decorations, filigree. Rinse it with warm water and then place it on a microfiber cloth to air dry.
Credits: Jewelers Mutual / www.josephsjewelers.com
Recommendations:
- do not scrub too vigorously with your toothbrush as you risk scratching some metal parts;
- do not clean the ring too frequently: once every two or three months is enough;
- do not use ammonia;
- do not clean your ring over an open sink!
Now your ring s shinier and brighter, right?
Share your thoughts with me!
Sources:
www.engagegementringbible.com
www.tiffany.com
www.theknot.com