An engagement ring is not just a symbol of love and commitment—it is also a precious piece of jewelry that deserves proper care and attention. Over time, your engagement ring can accumulate dirt, oils, and other debris, which may dull its sparkle. Cleaning it regularly will help maintain its shine and ensure that it remains in excellent condition for years to come.
Here how to clean my engagement ring, whether it’s made of gold, platinum, or any other material, and whether it features a diamond or other gemstone.
1. Check for Loose Stones
Before you start cleaning your engagement ring, always inspect it for loose stones. Gently press or tap each stone to see if it wobbles. If you find any loose stones, take your ring to a professional jeweler for inspection and repairs. Cleaning a ring with loose stones can make them fall out.
2. Gather the Supplies
For basic cleaning at home, you’ll need:
- A bowl of warm water
- Mild dish soap
- A soft toothbrush (preferably one with soft bristles)
- A microfiber cloth or soft, lint-free towel
- A small bowl (for soaking)
- Optional: Ammonia or commercial jewelry cleaner (for a deeper clean)
3. Prepare a Soaking Solution
Fill a small bowl with warm water and add a drop of mild dish soap. Avoid harsh chemicals or cleaners, as these can damage the precious metals or stones. Stir the solution gently to mix the soap with the water.
4. Soak Your Ring
Place your engagement ring in the soapy water and let it soak for about 15 to 20 minutes. This will help loosen any dirt, oils, and grime that have built up on the ring. Soaking will also make the cleaning process gentler and reduce the risk of scratching the ring or damaging any stones.
5. Gently Brush the Ring
After soaking, take your soft toothbrush and gently scrub the ring. Focus on the areas where dirt and oils might accumulate, such as under the setting or around the band. Be careful not to scrub too hard, especially if your ring features softer stones like opals or emeralds. For diamonds, you can apply a little more pressure, but always use a gentle touch.
6. Rinse and Dry
Once you’ve scrubbed all areas of your ring, rinse it thoroughly under warm running water to remove any remaining soap and debris. Be sure to close the drain or use a sieve to avoid losing your ring. After rinsing, gently dry your engagement ring with a soft microfiber cloth or a lint-free towel. Avoid using paper towels, as they can scratch the surface of your ring.
7. Optional: Use Ammonia for a Deeper Clean
If your ring has built-up grime or looks particularly dull, you can clean it more thoroughly by adding a small amount of ammonia to the water. Mix one part ammonia with six parts water and soak the ring for no more than 5 minutes. After soaking, scrub gently with a soft toothbrush, rinse, and dry.
Note: This ammonia solution is safe for diamonds but should not be used for rings with softer stones like pearls, opals, or turquoise, as ammonia can damage these materials.
8. Use a Jewelry Polishing Cloth
After cleaning and drying your ring, man made diamonds, you can give it a final touch by using a jewelry polishing cloth to remove any remaining smudges and restore the ring’s shine. These cloths are often impregnated with a special polishing agent that can bring back the sparkle to your engagement ring.
9. Regular Maintenance
To maintain your ring’s sparkle, it’s a good idea to clean it regularly, ideally every 2-3 weeks. If you have oily skin or wear your ring while cooking or exercising, you may need to clean it more frequently. Also, consider taking your engagement ring to a professional jeweler once a year for a deep cleaning and inspection. Jewelers can check the setting for any wear and tear and ensure the stones are secure.
Tips to Keep Your Engagement Ring Sparkling
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: When cleaning or handling your ring, avoid using strong chemicals like bleach, chlorine, or harsh cleaning agents that can damage the metal or stone.
- Take Your Ring Off During Activities: To prevent dirt buildup or potential damage, remove your engagement ring before swimming, exercising, or doing housework.
- Store Your Ring Safely: When you’re not wearing your ring, store it in a ring box or a soft pouch to prevent scratches from other jewelry or surfaces.
- Be Cautious with Ultrasonic Cleaners: While ultrasonic cleaners can be effective for cleaning jewelry, be cautious about using them with certain stones, as they may be too delicate for this method.
When to Seek Professional Cleaning
While regular at-home cleaning can keep your engagement ring looking beautiful, there are times when professional cleaning and inspection are necessary:
- If you’ve noticed any loose stones or settings
- If your ring has significant tarnish, scratches, or damage
- If your ring features intricate detailing or gemstones that need special care
In these cases, it’s best to visit a professional jeweler for a thorough cleaning, inspection, and repair.