Your engagement ring is one of the most meaningful pieces of jewellery you will ever own. With the right care and maintenance, it will remain as beautiful as the day you first wore it. Here is everything you need to know, from daily habits to professional upkeep.
Why Proper Care Matters
Over time, dirt, oils, and everyday residue accumulate on your ring, dulling the sparkle of diamonds and gemstones. Neglecting maintenance can also lead to worn prongs, loosened stones, or even loss of a precious gem. A simple, consistent routine protects both the beauty and the integrity of your ring.
Cleaning Your Engagement Ring
At Home
- Fill a small bowl with lukewarm water and add a few drops of mild soap.
- Place your ring in the soapy water and leave it to soak for a few minutes.
- Gently scrub with a soft-bristled toothbrush, paying attention to hard-to-reach areas beneath the setting.
- Rinse in a bowl of warm water rather than under a running tap — if any stones are loose, the dirt may be holding them in place.
- Pat dry with a lint-free or microfibre cloth.
Professional Cleaning
We recommend having your ring professionally cleaned and inspected once or twice a year. A jeweller can provide a thorough clean and check the integrity of the setting and prongs, ensuring your stones remain secure.
Protecting Your Diamonds and Gemstones
Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Always remove your ring before using household cleaning products. Chlorine-based cleaners, bleach, and abrasive substances can damage the metal setting and affect the brilliance of your stones. This includes swimming pools and hot tubs.
Be Mindful of Activities
Remove your ring during sports, gardening, gym sessions, or any hands-on activity. High-impact tasks can chip or loosen stones, and it is always better to err on the side of caution.
Regular Inspections
Periodically examine your ring for any signs of loose or damaged prongs. If anything looks or feels different, bring it to a jeweller promptly — a small repair is far preferable to losing a stone.
Caring for the Metal Setting
Gold
Gold is durable but not impervious to damage. Avoid wearing your gold ring when using abrasive products or during activities that may scratch the metal. Clean using the mild soap and warm water method above.
Platinum
Platinum is exceptionally resilient, but it can develop a natural patina over time. Clean in the same way as gold. If you prefer to restore the original bright finish, a jeweller can polish it for you.
Rose Gold
Rose gold is an alloy of gold and copper, which gives it its warm, romantic hue. Copper can react with harsh chemicals or chlorine, causing discolouration. Follow the same cleaning method as gold and be particularly cautious with chemical exposure.
Sizing and Fit
A well-fitted ring should feel snug but comfortable. Always get professionally sized by a jeweller — this is especially important for wider bands, where the measurement point (centre or leading edge) can make a meaningful difference to the fit.
Bear in mind that fingers can swell in warmer weather or fluctuate with weight changes. If your ring becomes too loose or tight, consult a jeweller about resizing. Avoid frequent resizing where possible, as repeated alterations can weaken the metal over time.
Storage and Travel
When not wearing your ring, store it in a fabric-lined jewellery box, separate from other pieces to prevent scratching. When travelling, keep it in a secure location — a hotel safe is ideal — and consider leaving it at home during activities that carry a higher risk of loss or damage.
Insurance
We strongly recommend insuring your engagement ring. Speak to your home insurance provider about adding it to your policy, and ensure the coverage reflects the full replacement value of the ring, including the stones.
A Final Word
Your engagement ring is a symbol of love and commitment, and it deserves to be looked after. A simple routine — regular cleaning, mindful wear, and annual professional checks — will keep it looking exceptional for a lifetime.
If you have any questions about caring for a Nude Jewellery piece, or would like to book a cleaning or inspection, please get in touch with our London studio.