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Hand lotions, hair styling products and everyday grime can leave a film on your diamond that keeps it from sparkling. Those materials can even accumulate into a thick layer of gunk on the back of the stone if you wait too long between cleanings.
Diamonds are the hardest substance known, but the setting and other precious stones can sometimes be harmed by harsh cleansers and vigorous scrubbing, making it even more important to clean the gems with care. Gentle & Effective Cleaning for All Diamonds
Soak your diamond ring in a warm solution of mild liquid detergent and water.
Use a soft brush if necessary to remove dirt. Soft is the word—don't use a brush with bristles that are stiff enough to scratch the ring's metal setting.
Swish the ring around in the solution, then rinse it thoroughly in warm water. Close the drain or put the ring in a strainer to keep from losing it!
Dry the ring with a lint-free cloth.
If the ring needs extra help, a Water Pik provides a stream of water to flush away small bits of grime. You can also use a wooden toothpick to carefully push dirt away from the stone and setting. Cleaning Diamonds
Diamonds that have not been fracture filled can be cleaned with a solution of ammonia and water.
Use the gentler liquid detergent solution for fracture filled diamonds, because ammonia can eventually cloud or remove the coating that's been placed on the stone. If Your Ring Contains Other Gemstones
The method you use to clean any piece of jewellery must protect its weakest element. If your setting includes other gems, use a cleaning method that is suitable for the less durable stones. Household Chemicals
You might already protect your hands from harsh chemicals, but if you don't, think about your fine jewellery. Remove your rings or wear gloves to protect them from products that contain chlorine, because it can damage metals. Avoid dripping bleaches and hair dyes on your fine jewellery.
Tips & Warnings
Don't be too aggressive when brushing your jewelry. Though diamonds are hard, the material in which they're set may not be. Gold and silver could be scratched if brushed too hard.
Ammonia Solution
Instructions
STEP 1: Take a small bowl and mix a solution of 6 parts water to 1 part ammonia.
STEP 2: Dip the item to be cleaned into the solution.
STEP 3: Dip a soft toothbrush into the cleaning solution, and gently brush the item.
STEP 4: Pay special attention to the backs of stones and their mountings, areas that tend to collect dirt and oils.
STEP 5: Rinse in warm running water.
STEP 6: Pat dry with a soft lint-free cloth.
Tips & Warnings
For especially soiled diamonds, mix a solution of half cold water and half ammonia in a small bowl. Let the item soak in the solution for 30 minutes, then gently brush the item with a soft toothbrush. Rinse in warm running water and allow the item to air dry on paper towels.
Please don't use toothpaste - Toothpaste is for teeth, not for jewelry. Toothpaste strengthens your teeth by developing a film over the enamel. Over time, this same film will remain on your gems, dulling them, and can be next to impossible to remove. Also, toothpaste contains microscopic granules that are abrasive and can scratch the smooth surfaces of the metals.
