After a lifetime of looking, you’ve finally located a perfect example. Husband? Your engagement ring, on the other hand, is the focus of this conversation. The finest ways to care for your spouse are the subject of numerous guides, but what about the bling on your finger? You shouldn’t do anything that would dull its shine, such as nicking it, chipping it, gunking it up, or knocking it out of its setting. I can imagine your shock at this news. You would never ever lose your engagement ring. The question now is how to protect this irreplaceable sign of your affection. Keep on reading.
You should treat your wedding jewellery with extra tender loving care so that you and your heirs can enjoy it for generations to come. You should take exceptional care of your engagement ring and wedding band because they are among your most prized assets. If you follow these guidelines, your wedding and engagement rings will look as good as the day you exchanged them for the rest of your lives.
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Don’t Wear It
Sometimes, in order to protect your ring, it’s best to remove it, such as when doing the following:
- Taking part in a sporting competition. If you’re left-handed and wear a wedding band with stones all around it, you may want to reconsider your tennis racket grip. Not only is it risky to wear the ring while lifting weights, but wearing it at the gym is also not recommended. Imagine the consequences of a 25-pound dumbbell crashing into your stone.
- Gardening. Diamonds can be damaged if the setting is knocked loose or the stone is jarred during strenuous yard work.
- Eliminating clutter. The ring can get dirty if you wash it with a harsh chemical soap or cleaner. Don’t wear the ring while washing dishes either.
Safekeeping
Remember to put your ring somewhere secure and easy to recall if you plan on removing it for any of the aforementioned pursuits. Diamonds can scratch other jewellery, so keep them in a box, pouch, or jewellery compartment specifically designed for diamonds.
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Never Apply Any Kind of Lotion, Sunblock, nor Perfumes
Diamonds and coloured gemstones are particularly vulnerable to damage from the chemicals found in these products. To avoid any mishaps, you should remove your ring before putting these on.
Maintain a Routine Check of Your Settings
Most jewellers will recommend having the setting of a particularly large stone checked every five months to ensure sure the stone hasn’t been knocked loose.
Don’t Go Swimming
If you lose your ring in the ocean, you probably won’t see it again because cold water can cause your fingers to shrink just enough to pry it loose. Your best bet is to avoid submerging your ring in saltwater, but if you must, you can do so in a swimming pool. However, while platinum can tolerate almost any chemical, gold and silver bands can become severely discoloured if exposed to the harsh chemicals found in swimming pools and spas.
Take Caution in the Kitchen
A turkey, a pie, cookie dough… Fingers work great for blending this. However, the film that these foods leave on the ring can significantly diminish its shine.
Maintain Cleanliness
Most jewellery stores will wash your ring at no charge, so make sure to take advantage of this perk. But actually, there is no need to take your ring to a jewellery store to get it cleaned when you don’t have the time to do it.
Small jewelers recommend using a mild dishwashing detergent to remove lotion residue from the mounting. Use a soft old toothbrush and hot water to thoroughly cleanse the outside and interior. One drop of Formula 409 in a lot of water can be used to clean diamonds, but you’ll need to rinse the stones thoroughly to remove the cleaner.
Emerald rings should be cleaned with only mild detergent, not harsh chemicals like 409.
To restore a gleam to your diamond ring’s mounting, immerse it in ammonia dissolved with three times as much water, and then brush the top and bottom surfaces with a gentle toothbrush. It’s preferable to give the ring multiple rinses in lukewarm water after dipping it in the solution to make sure you get rid of all of the liquid. Dry the ring by placing it on a clean towel or patting it dry with a dry towel.
Important: Always use a filter if you’re working near an open drain.
Schedule Professional Cleanings
Cleaning services are typically provided at no cost by jewellers. An onsite jeweller will not only steam-clean your ring, but also inspect it under magnification for loose stones, broken prongs, and other issues.
The best way to maintain the ring’s structural integrity and keep it sparkling like the day you first slipped it on, according to experts, is to have it professionally cleaned at least twice a year, much like a dental appointment.
Use Mild Cleaning Solutions
If you insist on cleaning your ring at home, however, the jewellers recommend a half-hour soak in a solution of warm water and mild dishwashing liquid, followed by a gentle scrub with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
Baking soda is another excellent option for polishing metals and gemstones because of its gentle, non-abrasive consistency. To make a soft paste, put some baking soda in a bowl and add some warm water. Remove the ring and work the paste into the crevices of the stone and setting with your fingers. It should be cleaned in warm water and dried with a lint-free cloth.
Here are some additional suggestions for maintaining the pristine condition of your ring.
Consider a “backup” ring
The so-called “backup ring” is another popular alternative. If you want to wear a ring more often without worrying about losing something of greater monetary or sentimental value, consider this alternative.
Costume jewellery that looks almost identical to real engagement rings and bridal sets can be found at many major retailers and upscale boutiques. Some people will gladly pay more for a replica ring rather than risk losing their real one.
Say no to chemicals
Chemicals in cosmetics and toiletries, such as perfume, lotion, and sunscreen, can leave behind residue that could be harmful to the ring and diamond. Never use these or any other products that could contain harmful chemicals without first taking off your ring.
Check the weather
Most people’s fingers shrink naturally in cold weather, whether they’re running to the store in a snowstorm or hiking. The possibility exists that your ring will slip off during the winter months.
As an alternative, hot weather can cause your fingers to swell, making your ring feel tight. If the weather is extremely hot, you may want to forego wearing your engagement ring in favour of just your wedding band.
Don’t risk the bling
Some things you do increase the danger to your ring. Such as the sport of sailing. How about drinking champagne with your hands hanging in the air over the ocean? Risky.
There are risks even in seemingly harmless outdoor activities like gardening. It’s important to think ahead to any scenario in which the ring might get particularly dirty or be impossible to retrieve. Whenever in doubt, we recommend playing it safe by not wearing any flashy jewellery at all.
Have a spot
It’s best to have a specific place to put your ring every time you take it off. It’s in one of the compartments of your jewellery box. This table is for use by your bedside. The tiniest compartment in your handbag. If you keep it in a specific spot, you’re less likely to lose track of it and forget where you put it.
It’s important to have a designated spot to store your ring and make it a habit to leave it there whenever you’re engaging in strenuous activity like working out or cleaning the house.
Restore shine to white gold and platinum
Every white gold ring will eventually become dull and develop a yellowish tinge. No matter how well you take care of your ring, this is a natural and inevitable occurrence.
Restoring the original lustre of white gold is as simple as Rhodium plating. Rhodium plating not only restores the lustre to a worn ring, but also enhances the brilliance of diamonds. A white gold engagement ring may require a Rhodium plating every six months to a year, depending on the wearer’s lifestyle, the ring’s care, and the wearer’s physical makeup.
Since platinum is not yellow to begin with, it does not require any kind of treatment to make it look like Rhodium. The platinum band can be plated to make it more reflective if the wearer prefers a more reflective ring.
Clean your ring four times a year
Your diamond is vulnerable to the accumulation of dirt, oil, and residue. It’s important to keep your ring clean or it will lose its lustre and beauty. Any film, however thin, can change the diamond’s reflectivity. Clean your diamond engagement ring a few times a year to keep it sparkling.
Send it in to a local jeweller or visit their store to have it cleaned for free. If you follow these instructions, cleaning your engagement ring at home will be a breeze.
Step 1: Put one full drop of dish soap into the lukewarm water in a tiny bowl. In a large mixing bowl, combine the water and dishwashing liquid. Do not clean your ring in the chlorine-based cleaner because it could cause a chemical reaction between the precious metal and the cleaner.
Step 2: Spend 10 minutes soaking your ring in soapy water to remove oil and dirt.
Step 3:Take your ring off and brush the surface with a soft bristle cleaning cloth. Brush each side carefully, paying special attention to the edges and the reverse.
Step 4:Replace your ring in the soapy water. Carry on brushing the ring to remove any loose dirt and grime before washing it.
Step 5:In order to preserve the beauty of your engagement ring, it is recommended that you wash it in running water. Make sure the drain is covered.
Step 6: To dry your ring, you can use a hair dryer or a lint-free cloth. It’s possible that your diamond will get water spots if you choose to air dry it.
Keep in mind: Never clean jewellery with bleach or other harsh chemicals. The metal and coating on your ring could get scratched. Stop by a jeweler’s shop if you don’t feel comfortable cleaning the ring on your own. You can clean it up in no time.
Give your metal setting a refresh every few years
If you want your ring to retain its lustre and pristine condition, you should take the appropriate steps for the precious metal it is made of. Every metal will tarnish eventually when exposed to air and moisture, so don’t bother getting your finger ringed.
Polishing platinum and yellow gold once every two years or so is necessary to keep it looking like new.
For white gold to keep its colour and lustre, the rhodium plating needs to be reapplied every few years. This method is cheap, and some jewellers even provide it for free.
Choose a ring with a warranty
Diamonds and jewellery purchased from reputable retailers will typically come with some sort of guarantee. For instance, lifetime warranty covers repairs and replacements for the lifetime of the ring in the event of any manufacturer defects.
If you buy from a reliable source, you can rest assured that your ring will continue to be cared for long after the ceremony is over.
Store your engagement ring safely
Keep your ring in a secure location when you’re not wearing it, or if you decide to leave it at home for a while.
To prevent your ring from getting scratched, store it in a fabric-lined jewellery box with separate compartments. To further ensure the safety of the jewellery case, you may wish to store it in a lockbox or fireproof safe.
Avoid having your ring resized more than once
Hands tend to swell and change sizes at various stages of life, including pregnancy and after giving birth. As an alternative to constantly resizing your ring, you should keep it hidden away until it once again fits. A ring can be resized indefinitely, but doing so too frequently can weaken the metal and lead to permanent damage.
Remove your ring during hands-on activities
Remove your ring before engaging in any hand-intensive tasks such as moving heavy furniture, gardening, lifting weights, or manual labour. If you’re going to be swimming, kayaking, or paddleboarding, you should probably take your ring off. Not only will your ring last longer, but you also won’t have to worry as much about losing it.
Additionally, we suggest keeping a ring dish close to the sink so that you can take off your ring before washing dishes. Taking off your ring will protect it from damaging elements like chemicals and accidental bumps. You should try to minimise the time your ring spends in the water.
But don’t remove your ring in public
You should probably avoid taking your ring off to wash your hands in public restrooms because you might lose it or have it slid down the drain.
Please don’t remove your ring in front of other people if at all possible. If you know you’ll be working out or doing physical labour today, take precautions to hide your ring at home.
Insure Your Ring
You know your ring is irreplaceable, so please keep it safe. In any case, it’s wise to be covered in case of an accident. Your ring is likely to be covered by your standard homeowners policy, but you can always take extra precautions and insure it separately if you prefer.
If you keep it clean and polished, your ring will shine just as brightly as it did on your wedding day.
The emotional value of your engagement ring is incalculable. In the event that your ring is lost, stolen, or damaged, however, you may be entitled to a full financial investment.
Your engagement ring should be insured for its full replacement value, which can be determined by having it appraised by a qualified expert. Look into multiple plans to find the one that meets your needs and budget the best.
Get your ring appraised every five years because precious metals and diamonds tend to increase in price. An appraisal that is ten years old or older is likely to be significantly lower than the current market value.
Conclusion
One of your most valued possessions is likely your wedding or engagement ring. Take special care of them so that you and your descendants can enjoy them for generations to come. Do not scuff it up by putting muck on it, nicking it, or chipping it, as doing so will reduce its shine. Make use of the fact that most jewellery retailers will clean your ring at no cost to you. If you lose your ring at sea, the cold water will make your fingers shrink, making it easier to peel it off.
Most jewellers will clean your jewellery for free if you purchase something else from them. In the same way that you should get your teeth cleaned twice a year, jewellers recommend doing the same for your engagement ring. Warm water and non-abrasive dish soap are good examples of gentle cleaning methods. Because of its mild, non-abrasive nature, baking soda is another great alternative for polishing metals and gemstones. Even innocuous outdoor pursuits like gardening, dangers can lurk.
When you take off your ring, always put it back in the same spot. The shine of a worn ring is brought back by rhodium plating, and the sparkle of diamonds is amplified. If you want to maintain your ring looking brand new, you should clean it a few times a year. In order to keep your engagement ring looking its best, it is advised that you wash it under running water. Platinum and yellow gold need to be polished around once every two years to maintain their gleaming appearance.
FAQs About Wedding Rings
How do I keep my ring in good condition?
To keep your ring sparkling, clean it often to remove lotions, skin oil, and everyday dirt which clouds it. You can soak the ring in warm water and mild dishwashing liquid and scrub with a soft toothbrush.
Do you sleep with your wedding ring on?
Wearing it to sleep should be safe for you if your ring features a large diamond with sharp edges. But the ring might scratch your partner or cause damage to your bedding.
How often should you wash your wedding ring?
To keep your ring looking its best, try to clean it once a week. That’s enough to keep everyday oil and buildup at bay. About twice a year, however, it’s good to take it to be cleaned at your jeweller-even more often if your ring has been exposed to a high level of debris.
Can I wash my hands with my wedding ring on?
When washing your hands with gentle soap and warm water, your engagement ring is fine; no need to stress about taking it on and off. However, you should definitely be taking your engagement ring off to apply hand sanitiser.
Can you clean your ring too much?
No, you can’t clean your wedding ring too much when it’s done correctly. But, if you’re using all kinds of harsh chemicals regularly, that’s when you’re doing too much. Those chemicals will end up damaging the metal and stones, affecting the overall look of the ring.
CONTENT SUMMARY
- You should take exceptional care of your engagement ring and wedding band because they are among your most prized assets.
- Don’t wear the ring while washing dishes either.
- Your best bet is to avoid submerging your ring in saltwater, but if you must, you can do so in a swimming pool.
- Most jewellery stores will wash your ring at no charge, so make sure to take advantage of this perk.
- Dry the ring by placing it on a clean towel or patting it dry with a dry towel.
- The best way to maintain the ring’s structural integrity and keep it sparkling like the day you first slipped it on, according to experts, is to have it professionally cleaned at least twice a year, much like a dental appointment.
- Every white gold ring will eventually become dull and develop a yellowish tinge.
- Clean your diamond engagement ring a few times a year to keep it sparkling.
- Replace your ring in the soapy water.
- Give your metal setting a refresh every few yearsIf you want your ring to retain its lustre and pristine condition, you should take the appropriate steps for the precious metal it is made of.
- Keep your ring in a secure location when you’re not wearing it, or if you decide to leave it at home for a while.
- To prevent your ring from getting scratched, store it in a fabric-lined jewellery box with separate compartments.
- You should try to minimise the time your ring spends in the water.
- Please don’t remove your ring in front of other people if at all possible.
- The emotional value of your engagement ring is incalculable.
