How to Care for Diamond Jewelry

Diamonds are the most popular precious stone used in jewelry. As the hardest material on earth, the diamond requires special attention to keep it brilliant. Learn how to properly clean, store and maintain the beauty of your diamond jewelry to enjoy it for a lifetime.

Instructions

1. Understand that while diamonds are durable, damage can occur when diamonds fall onto a hard surface or when diamonds rub against other diamonds.

2. Contact the jeweler where the diamond jewelry was purchased. Ask about scheduled maintenance for your diamond and if any fees are charged. Most jewelry stores offer lifetime cleanings and inspections to customers who purchase diamond jewelry.

3. Clean diamond jewelry at home. Realize that using a mild dish soap and warm tap water is an easy and effective method for cleaning diamonds. For diamonds that are heavily soiled, use a soft-bristled brush--a toothbrush works well--to gently scrub away debris. Soak the diamond jewelry and rinse in warm tap water, patting dry with a soft cloth.

4. Purchase a special diamond jewelry-cleaning solution to maintain a brilliant shine. Cleaners containing ammonia and water are common; follow the directions on the package for optimum results.

5. Keep unworn diamond jewelry safe. Expensive jewelry that is rarely worn should be kept in a fireproof safe or lock box for protection. Other diamond jewelry can be placed in soft, cushioned boxes--the original jewelry box would suffice--to protect against chipping.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep diamond jewelry separate from other jewelry in your jewelry box. Diamonds can chip and damage other kinds of jewelry.

• Purchase insurance to protect the investment of your diamond jewelry.

• Don't wear diamond jewelry while performing household tasks like cleaning or gardening. Avoid contact with chlorine bleach, which causes damage to diamonds.