How to clean diamond jewelry at home
A diamond attracts grease. Hand cream, soap and the oil of the skin settle on the underside of the stone and dull it within a few weeks. Cleaning brings the light back.
- Fill a small bowl with warm water and add a drop of mild washing-up liquid.
- Soak the piece for ten to fifteen minutes.
- Brush it gently with a soft toothbrush, paying attention to the back of the stone and the inside of the setting.
- Rinse it under warm running water. Close the drain first.
- Dry it with a soft cloth that leaves no lint.
Once every week or two is enough for a ring worn every day.
What to keep it away from
- Chlorine. Swimming pools and household bleach can weaken and discolour gold alloys over time.
- Knocks. Diamond is the hardest material there is, and it can still chip if it is struck hard on its edge. Take rings off for the gym, for gardening and for heavy work.
- Creams and sprays. Put jewelry on last, after lotion, perfume and hair spray.
- Abrasives. Toothpaste and baking soda scratch gold. Do not use them.
How to store it
A diamond will scratch anything softer than itself, including gold and every other gemstone. Store each piece on its own, in a soft pouch or in a separate compartment of a lined box. Fasten chains before putting them away so they do not knot.
Looking after the gold
18k gold is 75 percent pure gold, mixed with other metals for strength. It is softer than a diamond and will pick up fine scratches with wear. A jeweler can polish them out.
White gold is usually plated with rhodium to make it brighter. The plating wears with time, sooner on a ring than on earrings, and the piece can be replated when it begins to look warm.
When to have it checked
Claws wear down and can be bent by a knock. Have the settings checked about once a year, and sooner if a stone moves, rattles or catches on fabric. Small pavé stones are the first to work loose, so be gentle with ultrasonic cleaners on pavé pieces.
If you have a question about a piece from ART, write to us.
