Quick Tips for Cleaning & Caring for Diamond Jewelry

Sidney Garber jewelry is designed for a lifetime of enduring radiance, built to be a part of your story from day one. To keep that legacy alive, and to honor the stories held within each piece, a little TLC is required. Here’s how to keep your diamond jewelry looking its best:

At-Home Diamond Cleaning Methods

Gentle Soap & Water Soak

• Materials: Warm water, a small bowl, a new, soft toothbrush (a baby toothbrush works great), and a lint-free cloth for drying.
  
• Step-By-Step:

1. Mix a small amount of dish soap (like Dawn) into the warm water.
2. Let your jewelry soak for 20-40 minutes to loosen any dirt and grime.
3. Then, use the soft toothbrush to gently scrub behind the stone, where oil and dust often accumulate.
4. Rinse the soap and any dirt off under running water (make sure to plug the sink first to avoid any accidents).
5. Finish by patting dry with your lint-free cloth.
   

Ammonia Solution (Handle with Caution)

For tougher buildup on diamond jewelry, a diluted ammonia solution can work wonders, but it must be used with extreme care and caution.

• How To Use: Create a solution of one part ammonia to three or four parts water. Soak your diamond piece for no more than 15-20 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with water and pat dry completely.
• Caution: NEVER use ammonia on jewelry that has pearls, porous gemstones like turquoise or opal, or on delicate, antique settings.

Jewelry Cleaning Solutions: Don’t have time for a homemade soak? Plenty of commercial jewelry cleaners are available, and they're a great way to clean your jewelry! When choosing a commercial cleaner, keep these things in mind:

• Diamond-Safe Formula: Look for a solution specifically designed for your jewelry type.
• Check the Metal Type: Make sure it's compatible with the specific precious metal of your piece.
• Read the Fine Print: Not all formulas are created equal.

Care & Repairs at Sidney Garber

If your jewels need a little more attention than just a clean, please visit our dedicated Care & Repairs page. We are always here to assist you.

Best Practices for Diamond Jewelry Care

• Proper Storage: Diamonds are the hardest natural substance on earth, and they can scratch other jewelry. To prevent damage, store your diamond pieces separately in a soft pouch or a jewelry box with compartmentalized sections.
• Know When to Remove: Your diamonds should not be part of your daily chores or strenuous activities. Remove your jewelry before household chores, swimming, gardening, or working out. Always put on your jewelry last, after applying lotions, perfumes, or hairspray, as these products can leave a dull film.
  
• Regular Inspection: Take the time to inspect your pieces every few weeks. Look for any loose prongs or settings. A simple, quick self-inspection can prevent the heartbreak of losing a stone.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common mistakes to keep your diamonds clean and safe!

• Harsh Chemicals: Never use abrasive cleaners, bleach, or chlorine on your diamond jewelry. This will damage the metal.
• Scrubbing Too Hard: Skip the toothpaste or baking soda. Their abrasive nature can scratch the metal of your setting and dull its finish.
• Cleaning Over an Open Drain: This is a classic, preventable mistake. Always plug the sink before cleaning or rinsing your jewelry.
• Improper Ultrasonic Use: Professional jewelers are trained to use ultrasonic cleaners but some home versions that can be too powerful for certain settings (like pavé) or gemstones. Consult an expert before using one on a delicate piece.

Professional Cleaning & Maintenance

At-home cleaning is a great, quick way to clean your jewels, however professional maintenance is the most trusted way to ensure their longevity. A professional jeweler can give your pieces a deep, meticulous cleaning, and most importantly, inspect every setting for wear and tear to re-secure any loose stones. 

Looking for a trusted professional to clean your diamonds?  Contact our customer service team and we'll gladly assist you with locating a professional in your area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What's the best (safest) way to clean a diamond ring at home? 
A: The best/safest method is a gentle soak in warm water with a mild dish soap, followed by a soft scrub with a toothbrush.

Q: How often should I clean my diamond jewelry? 
A: To prevent build up it is recommended to do a cleaning every few weeks. Professional cleaning and inspection should be done once or twice a year.

Q: How long does it take to clean diamond jewelry at home? 
A: A simple soap and water soak takes about 30-40 minutes, but most of that time is passive soaking. The active scrubbing and drying takes just a few minutes!

Q: Can I use an ultrasonic cleaner for all diamond jewelry? 
A: No. Ultrasonic cleaners are not suitable for all settings or gemstones. It is best to consult a jeweler before using one, especially for delicate, pavé, or antique pieces.