Wedding rings aren’t referred to as “Eternity Rings” for nothing. They represent a strong and timeless union through changing seasons.
Just like the relationship of most, if not all, couples, a ring will also, inevitably experience wear and tear through the years (unless it is kept away somewhere after the engagement day, and we all know a stagnant relationship never works out).
However, even metal and diamond, known to be some of the most enduring materials on the planet, are not indestructible, but this isn’t a reason not to use your ring! With proper care and cleaning, you will be able to maintain your ring’s condition to last a lifetime.
Right Cleaning
Many rings made from precious metals are polished, so scrubbing with a toothbrush might not be a good idea. This could tarnish your ring’s finish, woefully discoloring and scratching the ring. Ideally, you should get warm water with mild detergent and soak it in a bowl to get rid of oil and accumulated dirt on the ring. On the other hand, if you feel the ring needs more cleaning you can leave it to soak overnight in water and half a solution of ammonia, or in a glass of vodka (it has cleansing properties).
Cotton is the only cloth that will not scratch precious metal, so make sure to use soft 100% cotton cloth when you wipe your ring.
It also would be good to know what kind of ring you have. Real silver tarnishes easily, and while it is true that ammonia and baking soda can clean it, these chemical compounds can also ruin it if you don’t know what you are doing. After all, most cleaning methods are either processes of abrasion by chemical or physical means, this means as you are getting rid of the dirt, you are most probably eroding some of the metal as well. Real gold does not tarnish, but it does get dull. Platinum can be very hard but it definitely can be scratched. Dirt can build up in these micro scratches and ultimately dull the finish.
You can always go to your nearest jewelry store for free steam cleaning, which takes about a few minutes. And while you’re at it, have a professional jeweler check your ring for maintenance. This especially goes for wedding bands and engagement rings with diamonds to make sure the stones stay in place.
Wear It Right
Don’t put on your ring or any other jewelry before you’ve finished putting on make-up or spraying your favorite perfume. Certain oils and ingredients in cosmetics can slowly cause discoloration on your ring. To avoid damaging it, your ring should be the last thing you wear before going out of the house.
Proper Storage
Make sure to separate diamond rings from other stones because it can scratch your precious gems. Remember, diamonds are the hardest stones in the world, so be careful not to keep it with your pearl earrings, silver bracelets, or emerald pendants. The damage it can do to your other accessories is irreversible. Also, that goes the same for the rest of your jewelry. Always separate them. It’s a good idea to keep them in the box that they came in.
About the author: May Flores likes lists, and thrives in party planning (and just planning in general). She writes marketing material for Brilliance Online Diamonds when she’s not preoccupied with things she’d like to do.
Credits: Photo courtesy of Mike Goodwin.