From sparkle to longevity, expert tips to keep your engagement ring flawless forever.
They put a ring on it! Now, it’s up to you to keep your engagement ring sparkly, safe, and stunning for years to come. We spoke with experts to find out the best ways to make sure your ring lasts a lifetime.
The Experts
TAKE IT OFF
We know it’s difficult to part with, but in order to keep your ring in tip-top shape, you’ll sometimes need to take it off. “Every aspect of the ring: metal type, gemstone, setting, and even the width of the band can affect its durability,” says AL Sandimir, founder of Automic Gold. “For the most part, you want to remove your jewelry before doing things like lifting weights or cleaning with harsh chemicals as that can cause surface scratches to even the most durable ring.”
In general, pros agree you should take your ring off when:
- Exercising or lifting weights
- Cleaning or using harsh chemicals
- Swimming or at the beach
- Taking a shower
- Putting on lotion
KEEP IT CLEAN
Weekly cleaning is important to keep that shine, but the method depends on the ring’s materials. “Care instructions vary based on the stone and metal. Some stones are more delicate and require gentler cleaning methods,” says Ruhee Rathod, director of finance and operations at Bario Neal. “For example, harsh chemicals can damage turquoise, pearls or opals, while diamonds are more durable.”
- Dip It: For durable gemstones such as diamonds, rubies, and sapphires, let your ring soak for 10 to 15 minutes in warm water and dish soap. “Then brush gently with an old, soft toothbrush — get underneath your diamond if you can, that is where a lot of the debris and lotion will build up, impacting your diamond’s sparkle,” advises fine jewelry designer Susie Saltzman. “I avoid ultrasonic cleaners because they have a vibration and sometimes that can cause gemstones to become loose in their setting.” Pat dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.
- Soft Touch: Emeralds, opals and pearls should not be submerged in water. Clean them by simply wiping with a soft, damp cloth. If extremely dirty, use a tiny bit of mild soap on a soft cloth, then gently wipe the stone.
CALL IN THE PROS
Experts recommend a professional cleaning and inspection, ideally by the same jeweler you purchased the ring from, twice a year (some even offer it as a complimentary service). “Regular professional cleaning is essential to maintain the beauty and longevity of a ring. Jewelers have specialized tools and solutions to remove built-up dirt and grime that home cleaning can miss,” says Rathod. “They can also inspect for damage, such as loose stones or bent prongs, and ensure the ring maintains its sparkle and structural integrity.”
And Sandimir urges you to not hesitate to bring the ring in if you notice something amiss. “Every few weeks you should check for things like bent or open prongs, chipped stones, worn-down or misshapen metal — or you could risk losing a stone. If you notice anything wrong, take it off immediately and bring it to an experienced jeweler for repairs,” they explain.
GET BACKUP
Insurance companies like BriteCo offer specific policies for your wedding rings, and often cover professional cleanings, but according to Sandimir you don’t necessarily need to open a brand-new policy. “Many companies advertise specific jewelry insurance, but I recommend adding your ring to your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance. Depending on your insurance company, they may offer an additional clause that cover loss or theft outside the house,” says Sandimir.
- Cost: You can typically expect to pay 1-2% of your ring’s value to insure it.
- Double-check if your policy caps the amount paid for personal loss or the type of claim requested.
Photography by North London Lens from Becca and Dee’s Cabin Proposal
**This article was originally featured in Love Inc. V10 print issue. Buy your copy here.**
