Although diamonds never lose their fire and brilliance, their sparkle can be “dulled” by “day-to-day” wear. Their affinity for grease attracts oils from cosmetics, skin, soaps and cooking, creating a “film” on its surface.
A clean diamond not only reflects light best, but it actually looks bigger than one that has been “clouded” by grime. Following a few simple home cleaning methods on a monthly basis can keep your diamond at it’s brilliant best:
The detergent bath:
Prepare a small bowl of warm suds with any mild liquid detergent. Brush the pieces with an eyebrow brush while they are in the suds. Transfer to a wire strainer and rinse with warm running water. Pat dry with a soft, lint-free cloth or a piece of gift wrapping tissue.
The cold water soak:
Make a half-and-half solution of cold water and household ammonia in a cup. Soak the diamonds thirty minutes. Lift out and tap gently around the back of the mounting with an eyebrow brush. Swish in the solution once more and drain on tissue paper. No rinse is needed.
The quick-dip method:
Buy one of the brand-name liquid jewellery cleaners, with its kit, and follow its instructions. Some of the preparations can be used on all jewellery, including pearls and antiques, but not on silver. Others cannot be used on certain materials. Read the label on the jar and choose the kind most useful to you.
It is a good idea to remove one’s diamond ring when applying makeup, washing it off, or when doing heavy chores around the house. Diamonds are the hardest substance there is, but they can be chipped, if struck against a hard surface.
See your jeweller at least once a year and have him check your diamond ring for loose prongs and wear of mountings. They will usually give them a professional “shine-up” too.
