11 Ways To Take Care of Your Engagement Ring
Your engagement ring is a significant and sentimental piece of jewellery, so looking after it should be a priority. Now that it’s a permanent fixture on your hand, it’s essential to take steps to maintain its sparkle and beauty for years to come. Here are some key tips to help you properly care for your engagement ring.
1. Purchase Insurance
Insuring your engagement ring is crucial to protect it in case of loss, theft, or damage. It’s also important to have your ring appraised every five years, as the value of diamonds and precious metals tends to increase over time. This ensures that your insurance coverage accurately reflects the ring’s current value.
2. Avoid Removing Your Ring in Public
It can be tempting to take your ring off when washing your hands, especially in public restrooms. However, this increases the risk of leaving it behind or dropping it down the drain. Instead, keep your ring on during hand washing and be mindful of it.
3. Handle the Ring by the Band
When taking your ring on or off, avoid touching the centre stone. Diamonds and gemstones can easily attract dust, dirt, and oils from your fingers, making them appear cloudy. To keep your stone sparkling, handle the ring by the band instead of the stone.
4. Keep Your Ring Clean
While you may be tempted to clean your ring with at-home solutions, it’s best to leave the deep cleaning to professionals. Regularly take your ring to a jeweller for a professional cleaning. This ensures that your ring is thoroughly steamed and polished, bringing it back to its original brilliance.
5. Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Harsh chemicals can wear down the metal holding your diamond in place and may even affect the diamond itself over time. Whether you’re cleaning or using products that contain strong chemicals, it’s best to remove your ring beforehand.
6. Minimise Wear and Tear
Diamonds are incredibly durable, but they’re not indestructible. Repeated knocks against hard surfaces can chip the diamond or damage the metal. Be mindful not to bang your ring against anything that could cause unnecessary wear and tear.
7. Remove Your Ring During Physical Activities
When engaging in hands-on activities such as gardening, exercising, or moving furniture, it’s a good idea to remove your engagement ring. This protects it from dirt, impact, and damage that can occur during these activities.
8. Schedule Annual Maintenance
To ensure your ring stays in top condition, schedule annual check-ups with your jeweller. They will inspect the prongs, check for loose stones, and ensure there are no cracks in the metal. Regular maintenance is key to preserving the integrity of your ring.
9. Get a Pre-Wedding Professional Cleaning
If your wedding day is approaching, consider having your ring professionally cleaned right before the big day. Your jeweller can use steamers and sonic cleaners to give your ring a high-shine finish, making sure it looks flawless for those all-important photos.
10. Use Ring Dishes Around the House
Designate small ring dishes around your home—such as by the sink, in the bathroom, and by your bedside—to safely store your ring when you need to take it off. This will help ensure that your ring stays safe and doesn’t get misplaced.
11. Avoid Ring Envy
Your engagement ring is a symbol of your unique love story, not a measure of status. Avoid comparing your ring to others, and cherish it as a personal reminder of your commitment to your partner.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your engagement ring remains as stunning as the day you received it, preserving its beauty and sentimental value for years to come.