How to Care for Your Engagement Ring: Maintenance Tips and Tricks

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Engagement Ring Maintenance

Your custom engagement ring is more than just a piece of jewelry – it’s a symbol of your love, but it’s also a significant financial investment. To keep your ring looking as clean and untarnished as the day you received it, you have to know how to properly care for and maintain it. With a few simple tips and tricks, your custom engagement ring will stay nice and sparkly.

Cleaning Techniques for Different Types of Precious Metals and Gemstones

You know that feeling when you first put on your engagement ring? It’s so shiny, sparkly, and perfect. But as time goes on, life happens, and your ring will start to lose its luster. Don’t worry, though, with a little TLC, you can keep your ring looking as beautiful as the day you said “yes.”
The key is to keep your ring clean and free from things like dirt, oil, and whatever else builds up on a day-to-day basis. But here’s the thing: not all rings are created equal. The best way to clean your ring depends on what it’s made of.

For most metals (gold, platinum, palladium):

  • Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water in a small bowl.
  • Soak your ring in the solution for 15-20 minutes.
  • Gently brush the ring with a soft-bristled toothbrush, paying special attention to the underside of the setting and any intricate details.
  • Rinse the ring thoroughly with warm water and dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.

For diamonds:

  • Follow the same cleaning steps as for metals, but you can also use a commercial jewelry cleaner specifically designed for diamonds.
  • Avoid exposing your diamond to harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia, which can damage the stone or its setting.

For other gemstones (sapphires, rubies, emeralds, etc.):

  • Follow the same cleaning steps as for metals, but use extra caution and a very soft touch, as some gemstones can be more delicate than diamonds.
  • Avoid using commercial jewelry cleaners or ultrasonic cleaners unless specifically recommended for your gemstone, as these can cause damage.

If you’re ever unsure about how to clean your specific ring or if you notice any damage or looseness in the setting, it’s always best to bring it to a professional jeweler for cleaning and inspection. This ensures that your ring, especially handcrafted Phoenix engagement rings, receives the specialized care it deserves to maintain its quality and longevity..

…with a little TLC, you can keep your ring looking as beautiful as the day you said “yes.”

Keeping your jewelry clean

Proper Storage and Protection When Not Wearing the Ring

Along with regular cleaning, properly storing your ring is a big part of keeping your custom engagement ring safe and scratch-free. When you’re not wearing it, keep it in a secure, protected place where it won’t be subjected to unnecessary wear or damage. Plus you’ll know where it is whenever it’s not on your finger.

Some tips for storing your ring

  • Keep it in a soft, lined jewelry box or a fabric-lined ring holder.
  • Store it separately from other jewelry to avoid scratches or tangles.
  • Avoid storing it in direct sunlight or extreme temperatures, which can cause damage or discoloration over time.

Avoiding Common Ring Damage

While most engagement rings are designed to withstand daily wear and tear, damage can still occur if you’re not mindful. Here are a few tips to avoid the most common culprits. By following these tips, you can help ensure the longevity and beauty of your Tempe custom engagement rings:

  • Scratches: Avoid having your ring on when working with abrasive materials or surfaces. Also, other pieces of jewelry can scratch it, so be aware of where you store it when it’s not on your finger. 
  • Loose settings: Have your ring inspected regularly by a professional jeweler to make sure the setting is secure and there are no signs of wear or damage that could cause the stone to become loose. Looking down at your hand and seeing a missing stone is no bueno. 
  • Impact damage: Remove your ring before doing any activities that could subject it to hard impact or blows, such as sports, manual labor, or playing the congas. 
  • Chemical damage: Avoid exposing your ring to harsh chemicals like bleach, ammonia, or chlorine, which cause discoloration and damage to the metal and stones.

By being aware of these common types of damage and taking steps to prevent them, your ring will stay looking its best for a long long time.

When to Bring the Ring in for Professional Maintenance and Inspections

Even with regular at-home cleaning and proper care, you should still take your engagement ring to a professional jeweler for periodic maintenance and inspections. We recommend having your ring professionally cleaned and checked at least once or twice a year, or more often if you wear it daily or take part in activities that put it at higher risk for damage. This ensures the ongoing beauty and durability of your Custom-made Scottsdale engagement rings.

During a professional maintenance appointment, your jeweler will:

  • Thoroughly clean and polish your ring, removing any built-up dirt or debris.
  • Inspect the setting and prongs to ensure that the stone is secure and that there are no signs of wear or damage.
  • Check for any loose or missing accent stones and replace them if necessary.
  • Assess the overall condition of the ring and make any necessary repairs or adjustments.

By being consistent with professional maintenance, you will most likely catch any issues early and keep your ring in top condition. Caring for your custom engagement ring may seem a bit tedious, but with a few simple habits and consistent maintenance, you will keep your ring looking as awesome as the day you first put it on.

FAQ

It’s recommended to clean your engagement ring every few weeks to maintain its sparkle. Regular cleaning helps remove dirt and oils that can dull its appearance.

You can clean your engagement ring at home using a mixture of warm water and mild dish soap. Soak the ring for about 20-30 minutes, then gently scrub with a soft toothbrush before rinsing and drying it with a lint-free cloth.

Technically yes, you can wear it whenever you want, but it’s advisable to remove your engagement ring during activities such as exercising, swimming, or cleaning with harsh chemicals. This prevents scratches and damage to the stone and setting.

To protect your engagement ring, store it in a soft pouch or a separate compartment in a jewelry box when not in use. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or harsh chemicals that could cause damage.

You should take your engagement ring to a professional jeweler for maintenance at least once a year. They can check for loose stones, clean the ring thoroughly, and ensure that the setting is secure.

Ready to get your ring checked out? 

If you ever have any questions or concerns about caring for your custom engagement ring, our team is always here to help. From providing personalized care instructions to offering professional cleaning and inspection services, we’re committed to helping you keep your ring in impeccable condition for a lifetime. Contact us today to learn more about our ring care services and to schedule your first maintenance appointment by booking a time using the calendar below. 

Just go to the calendar below and choose the date and time that works best for you. See you then!