How to clean a diamond ring
Regular cleaning of a diamond ring helps to maintain its sparkle and remove residue that builds up with daily wear. It is normal that, over time, a layer of the skin’s natural oils forms and traces of cream, soap, make-up and dust adhere, resulting in a visible reduction in sparkle.
Below, at The Red House, as a leading jeweller in Gibraltar, we explain a cleaning method for diamond rings, with clear guidance on what to do and what to avoid.
Recommended materials for safe cleaning
To clean the ring at home, it is advisable to use warm water, a mild soap (without harsh ingredients), a small container, a very soft-bristled brush and a clean microfibre cloth for drying.
This method is suitable for many everyday pieces of jewellery, such as necklaces or earrings, provided they do not include delicate materials
Before you start, it is advisable to check that the stone is not loose. If you notice movement, it is better to not handle the ring and go for a professional cleaning to avoid risks.
Method for cleaning a diamond ring
Prepare a solution with warm water and a few drops of mild soap. The water should not be hot, a lukewarm temperature is enough to soften residue without subjecting the metal to unnecessary thermal changes.
Place the diamond ring in the container and leave it to soak for five to ten minutes. This step makes it easier to remove dirt from hard-to-reach areas.
After soaking, clean it with the soft-bristled brush, using gentle movements and without pressing. It is advisable to focus on the underside of the diamond and the spaces around the setting, where the greatest amount of residue usually builds up. If the diamond ring has openwork areas or details, the cleaning should be slow and controlled, avoiding forcing the brush into angles where it could catch.
Next, rinse it with clean warm water to remove all the soap. Rinsing should be done carefully so that the water also reaches the inside of the mount.
To finish, dry it with a microfibre cloth by dabbing, without rubbing hard. If you wish, you can leave the ring for a few minutes on a clean surface to finish drying before putting it away.
What is not recommended for cleaning a diamond ring
It is not recommended to use bleach, chlorine, acetone or multi-purpose cleaners to clean diamond rings. These products can damage the finish of the metal, whether diamond, gold, or platinum, and affect elements of the setting. It is also not advisable to use toothpaste, bicarbonate of soda, abrasive powders or hard brushes; the main problem is not the diamond, but the metal and the polish of the mount, which can become marked or lose shine over time.
Recommended cleaning frequency
If the ring is worn daily, a gentle periodic clean is usually enough to maintain its appearance. The exact frequency depends on contact with creams, make-up and daily activities.
Recommendations to keep the ring clean for longer
To reduce the build-up of residue, it is better to remove the diamond ring before applying cream, perfume or make-up. It is also advisable to avoid wearing it during household tasks, sport or handling cleaning products. When storing it, it is advisable to keep it separate from other jewellery to avoid rubbing.
When to opt for professional cleaning
It is better to go to a jeweller when the diamond ring has persistent dirt, when the design makes access to certain areas difficult, when there are several small stones, or when there are doubts about the firmness of the setting. A professional cleaning makes it possible to remove residue using suitable techniques and, at the same time, check the security of the mount.
If you need advice on luxury jewellery, you can visit our jewellery shop in Gibraltar, where our jewellers will be delighted to help you.
