How to Clean Diamonds

If diamonds are your best friends, treat them accordingly. Regular cleaning will keep your jewels sparkling.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Dishwashing Liquid
• Toothbrushes
• Small Bowls
• Paper Towels
• Paper towels

Soapy Solution

1. Take a small bowl and mix a small amount of mild dish detergent with warm water until sudsy.

2. Dip the item to be cleaned into the solution.

3. Dip a soft toothbrush into the cleaning solution, and gently brush the item.

4. Rinse in warm running water.

5. Pat dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.

Ammonia Solution

1. Take a small bowl and mix a solution of 6 parts water to 1 part ammonia.

2. Dip the item to be cleaned into the solution.

3. Dip a soft toothbrush into the cleaning solution, and gently brush the item.

4. Pay special attention to the backs of stones and their mountings, areas that tend to collect dirt and oils.

5. Rinse in warm running water.

6. Pat dry with a soft lint-free cloth.

Tips & Warnings

• For especially soiled diamonds, mix a solution of half cold water and half ammonia in a small bowl. Let the item soak in the solution for 30 minutes, then gently brush the item with a soft toothbrush. Rinse in warm running water and allow the item to air dry on paper towels.

• Don't be too aggressive when brushing your jewelry. Though diamonds are hard, the material in which they're set may not be. Gold and silver could be scratched if brushed too hard.

• Be sure to use the ammonia and ammonia-water solution only in a well-ventilated area, and avoid inhaling the ammonia solution directly.