Proper Diamond Care

After you buy your stone from a diamond warehouse, you will need to care for it appropriately to preserve its brilliance and beauty. We'll explain how to care for your diamond properly here.

Dos and Don'ts of Diamond Care

Here is a summary of what you should and should not do with diamonds in order to preserve their beauty:

• DO take your diamond jewelry to a diamond warehouse or other professional jeweler if you notice a loose setting. If you think the stone is loose, avoid wearing the jewelry until it has been fixed. For maintenance purposes, most experts recommend taking your diamond jewelry to a professional at least once a year to have the stone setting checked.
• DO store your diamonds properly when you are not wearing them. Diamonds should be stored in a case lined with fabric or a box with separate compartments. Diamonds can scratch other stones, including other diamonds.
• DON'T wear your diamonds when doing chores. Performing housework or yard work in your diamond jewelry can easily result in it being damaged. Diamonds are very durable, but they will chip if hit hard enough.
• DON'T expose your diamonds to bleach. Bleach will damage the stone, which is another reason to avoid wearing your diamonds when doing housework.

Diamond Cleaning

Over time, your diamond jewelry will collect smudges and dirt. The oils of your skin and any lotions or soaps you use will eventually leave a film on your diamond. To keep your diamond shining brilliantly, take it to a diamond warehouse or jewelry store for a professional cleaning at least once per year. To spruce up your diamond on your own, try any of the following cleaning methods.

• Detergent bath. Fill a bowl with warm water and extremely mild liquid detergent (without chlorine). Scrub the diamond with a soft brush until a lather appears around the stone. Place the diamond in a strainer and rinse with warm water. Dry with a soft, lint-free towel or cloth.
• Soak in cold water. Mix four parts cold water with one part mild dishwashing liquid. Let the diamond soak for a few minutes. Take the diamond out of the water and tap the sides gently with a soft brush. Rinse the diamond in the solution again and let it drain on a soft cloth.
• Jewelry cleaning liquid. You can buy jewelry cleaning fluid at almost any major retailer or diamond warehouse. Make sure you select a cleaner that is specifically designed for diamonds. Read and follow the instructions on the container closely. Once your diamond is clean, avoid touching it with your hands to prevent a film from forming.