How to Take Care of Your Engagement Ring

Your engagement ring is more than just jewellery; it’s a symbol of love, commitment, and one of the most precious moments in your life. But with daily wear, even the most durable rings can lose their sparkle or sustain damage. Taking care of your engagement ring not only preserves its beauty but also ensures it stays in perfect condition for many years to come.

Whether you’re newly engaged or just looking to give your cherished ring some extra love, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about cleaning, protecting, and maintaining your engagement ring.

Keeping Your Engagement Ring Clean

Everyday wear can dull the shine of your ring, thanks to lotions, soaps, and even natural oils from your hands. Regular cleaning will help maintain its sparkle and brilliance.

Clean Your Ring at Home

You don’t need fancy equipment to clean your ring at home. Here’s how you can do it safely:

• Use Warm Water and Dish Soap: Mix warm water with a small amount of mild dish soap. Gently soak your ring in the solution for a few minutes.
• Brush Gently: Using a soft toothbrush, gently scrub the ring, paying extra attention to areas beneath the stone where dirt tends to accumulate.
• Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the ring in warm water to remove any soap residue, making sure not to handle it over the open drain, and dry it with a lint-free cloth.

Pro Tip: Avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach or chlorine, as these can damage your ring’s finish and any gemstones.

Professional Cleaning

While cleaning at home helps, it’s a good idea to have your ring professionally cleaned by a jeweller once or twice a year. Professional tools can reach areas you might miss and restore that fresh-from-the-box shine.

Protecting Your Ring from Damage

Your engagement ring is designed to be worn every day, but certain activities and environments can cause unintended damage. Here’s what to watch out for:

Daily Activities to Avoid

• Gym Workouts: Lifting weights or using gym equipment can scratch or dent your ring, especially if it has a soft metal like gold. Try removing your ring before exercising.
• On Public Transport: Gripping poles and handrails on buses or the tube may seem harmless, but repeated impact or pressure can loosen the stones over time.
• Household Chores: Cleaning products, particularly those with strong chemicals, can erode the metal or damage certain gems. A simple solution? Use dishwashing gloves when cleaning.
• Folding Buggies or Prams: While convenient, folding and handling prams can knock your ring against hard surfaces, leading to scratches or dents.

The Danger of Impacts

Rings, especially those with softer stones, are sensitive to repeated impacts. The back of the band, which often bears the brunt of knocks, can warp or weaken over time. Take extra care to avoid unexpectedly banging your ring on hard surfaces.

When to Take It Off

To prolong your ring’s life, consider removing it during:

• Swimming or bathing
• Gardening or strenuous outdoor activities
• Applying thick lotions or creams

Remember to keep a designated safe spot for your ring when it’s not on your finger to avoid losing it!

Annual Check-Ups with a Jeweller

Just like your car, your engagement ring needs regular check-ups to keep it in tip-top shape. Schedule an annual visit to your jeweller for a professional evaluation. Here’s what they’ll look for:

• Stone Security: Over time, the prongs or settings holding stones in place can loosen. A jeweller can ensure all stones are secure.
• Repolishing: A full polish will remove scratches and restore the metal’s shine. Does your ring look a little less glossy? This treatment will bring back its lustre.
• Repairs: If your band is bent or a prong is damaged, your jeweller can make repairs to protect the overall integrity of the ring.

By catching issues early during your annual check-up, you can prevent bigger problems down the line.

Special Care for Delicate Gemstones

If your engagement ring includes gemstones like emeralds, opals, or pearls, additional care is required. These stones are softer and more prone to damage.

• Emeralds: Known for their striking green hue, emeralds are beautiful but fragile. Use only gentle soap and water to clean them, as harsh chemicals can cause cracks or discolouration. Avoid exposing emeralds to sudden temperature changes, as this can weaken the stone.
• Opals and Pearls: These delicate stones can lose their lustre when exposed to excessive moisture or chemicals. It’s best to clean them with a damp cloth and avoid submerging them in water.

For rings with more delicate stones, consider wearing them only on special occasions to minimise the risk of damage.

Make Your Engagement Ring Last a Lifetime

Your engagement ring is more than an accessory; it’s a daily reminder of your love story. By cleaning it regularly, avoiding damaging activities, and staying on top of professional maintenance, you can ensure it remains as beautiful and meaningful as the day they proposed.

Looking for more tips or recommendations on ring maintenance? Drop by Holts Gems or explore our expert rings designed for newly engaged couples.