Diamonds are evaluated by the four C’s: cut, colour, clarity and carat weight. But in order to keep your diamond looking its sparkling best, you should add another C – clean!
Soap, oils and dirt block the light refraction which makes your diamond sparkle. 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.
Chalet Studio Photography, Windsor, Ontario
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 its brilliant best.
The Detergent Bath: Prepare a small bowl of warm suds with any mild detergent. Brush the pieces with an eyebrow brush while they are in the suds. Transfer to a wire strainer and rinse under warm running water. Pat dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.
The Cold Water Soak: Make a half and half solution of cold water and household ammonia in a cup. Soak for 30 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: Purchase one of the name brand liquid jewellery cleaners, with its kit and follow the 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 that is most useful to you.
It is a good idea to remove your diamond ring when applying make-up or when doing heavy chores around the home. Diamonds are one of the hardest substances known, but they can chip if struck against a hard surface.
See your jeweller at least once a year, and have your diamond ring checked for loose prongs and wear of mountings. They will usually give a cleaning and shine-up, too!
