Everyday jewellery care
Fine jewellery is designed to be worn, but small daily habits make a noticeable difference. Remove rings and delicate pieces before cleaning, exercising, gardening, swimming, or using products that may leave residue on metal and stones.
Lotions, perfume, soap, and household chemicals can dull the surface of jewellery and collect behind stones. Putting jewellery on last when getting ready, and taking it off before heavy tasks, helps preserve its finish and sparkle.
How to clean diamond jewellery at home
A simple clean can restore brightness between professional services. Use warm water, mild washing-up liquid, and a soft brush to gently clean around the stone and setting. Rinse carefully and dry with a lint-free cloth.
Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive cloths, and unknown cleaning solutions. Ultrasonic cleaners can be unsuitable for some settings or gemstones, so it is best to ask before using one on jewellery with delicate details.
- Use warm water and mild soap for routine cleaning.
- Brush gently behind diamonds where residue collects.
- Dry with a soft lint-free cloth.
- Avoid bleach, chlorine, and abrasive products.
Storing jewellery safely
Store jewellery pieces separately so diamonds and metal surfaces do not scratch one another. A fabric-lined jewellery box, individual pouch, or separate compartment is usually better than leaving pieces together on a tray.
Rings should be kept away from hard surfaces where they can be knocked or dropped. If you remove a ring during the day, use a consistent safe place rather than placing it loose in a pocket or bag.
Protecting settings and claws
Settings naturally experience wear over time, especially on rings worn every day. Claws can catch, flatten, or loosen through repeated contact with surfaces. Regular checks help ensure stones remain secure.
If you notice movement, a catching claw, a bent setting, or a change in how the ring feels, stop wearing the piece until it has been inspected. Early attention is usually simpler than repairing damage after a stone has been lost.
Professional cleaning and inspection
Professional servicing removes build-up that at-home cleaning cannot reach and allows a jeweller to inspect claws, settings, stone security, and the general condition of the piece.
For frequently worn engagement rings and wedding bands, a periodic inspection is a sensible part of ownership. It keeps the piece looking bright and helps protect the craftsmanship over the long term.
Caring for different metals
Platinum develops a soft patina and can be professionally polished if a brighter finish is preferred. White gold may need rhodium replating over time to restore its crisp white surface. Yellow and rose gold can also be polished, but care should be taken not to over-polish delicate details.
The right care routine depends on the metal, setting, and how often the piece is worn. We can advise on the most suitable approach for your jewellery.
Common questions
- How often should I clean my diamond ring?
- Light at-home cleaning can be done when the ring looks dull. Frequently worn rings should also have periodic professional checks for stone security.
- Can I wear my ring in the shower?
- It is better to remove fine jewellery before showering because soaps and products can build up behind stones and dull the finish.
- Is hand sanitiser bad for jewellery?
- Frequent exposure can leave residue and may affect finishes over time. Let sanitiser dry fully before wearing rings when possible.
- What should I do if a stone feels loose?
- Stop wearing the piece and arrange an inspection. Wearing it while a stone is loose increases the risk of loss or further damage.