Diamond Pendant - Learn How to Keep it Clean
Jewelry is an expensive commodity and an investment and thus it is important to ensure that any piece that you own remains in pristine condition. For this reason, if your jewelry needs to be cleaned, it is best to take those pieces to a jeweler since they are the best equipped to do so, especially if it is something complicated like an engagement ring with a funky engagement ring setting in it. However, since it is expensive to constantly take jewelry to a jeweler, here is the process you should take when you clean jewelry at home.
In general, do not use corrosive cleaning agents since they will tarnish the metal and possibly even degrade gemstones, especially diamonds. Thus, it is highly recommended to use dish soap solution that is 3 parts water and one point soap. When cleaning, set aside an area that is clean, brightly lit, dry and nowhere near a drain, unless you have the drain plugged or a sieve over it so you don’t lose any jewelry down the drain.
The first step after making your solution is to let the jewelry soak for a few seconds and then using a gentle toothbrush or towel, scrub your jewelry clean.
Pluck all hairs or fibers with a pair of tweezers, especially if there are any stuck in the setting. Then soak it for a few seconds in a second bowl of clean water. You may use running water, but make sure the drain is plugged so your jewelry does not get lost. Once you have rinsed off your jewelry, dry and polish it with a soft, lint-free cloth.
One more thing to keep in mind is that if your jewelry contains more than one type of gemstone, there is a difference in hardness between the stones a well as what sort of solution may be used to clean it. The rule is to use the cleaning agent that works with the softest stone. Also, never use chlorine as it will ruin jewelry permanently.
