Caring for a Diamond

What You Should Know

Diamonds attract grease, which can make them difficult to keep clean. When a diamond is handled repeatedly, natural oils from your fingers can adhere to the diamond's surface and affect its sparkle and brilliance.

You should avoid wearing diamond jewelry while doing work that may be considered rough, especially when using tools.

Although diamond is one of the hardest natural substances on Earth, a diamond can still chip or crack if struck with sufficient force at an angle corresponding to one of its natural cleavage planes.

When doing household chores, avoid exposing your diamond jewelry to harsh chemicals such as chlorine bleach and other strong cleaning products.

Diamonds require cleaning from time to time, and their settings should also be inspected periodically. Prongs, clasps, and other parts of a jewelry setting can wear or loosen over time.

Consider having diamond jewelry inspected periodically by a professional jeweler to help identify loose or worn settings before a gemstone is lost.

Platinum is often used for diamond jewelry because of its strength and durability. Gold and other precious metals are also widely used and may require periodic inspection and maintenance depending upon the design, age, and use of the jewelry.

Professional maintenance can also provide an opportunity to have your jewelry professionally cleaned so that the diamond's brilliance and appearance can be restored.

Cleaning Your Diamond at Home

If you choose to clean your diamond jewelry yourself, consider the following general steps:

1. Prepare a mild cleaning solution. Soak your diamond jewelry in warm water containing a few drops of mild dishwashing soap.
2. Use a soft toothbrush. After removing the jewelry from the solution, gently clean it with a new, soft toothbrush reserved only for jewelry cleaning.
3. Clean difficult-to-reach areas. Pay particular attention to the back of the diamond and areas around the setting where oils and dirt may collect.
4. Use extra care with delicate settings. Antique jewelry, aging prongs, and tension settings should be brushed very gently.
5. Rinse thoroughly. Rinse the jewelry with clean water after brushing.
6. Dry carefully. Dry the jewelry with a clean, soft, lint-free cloth.

Caution: If you are cleaning jewelry over or near a sink, close the drain or place a secure mesh cover over it before beginning.

Jewelry containing delicate gemstones, antique settings, glued components, treated stones, or unusual materials may require different cleaning methods. When in doubt, consider consulting a professional jeweler before cleaning the item.

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