How to clean and care for your diamond and gemstone jewellery

Diamond and gemstone jewellery can need a little help to maintain its brilliance for eternity. At Alicia J, we want all of our customers to be able to enjoy their fine jewellery throughout their entire life, and then be able to pass it on the future generations.

Although diamonds are the hardest natural substances on earth, they are not totally indestructible. Diamonds have an affinity for grease and oils which means over time, they can become dirty. When a diamond is dirty, it appears dull. This not only takes away your diamonds sparkle, but it can cause inclusions (small imperfections) to become more obvious to the human eye.

With the correct care and knowledge, your jewellery can last a lifetime and beyond. Here are our top tips for keeping your precious jewellery in top condition.

1. Remove your jewellery before taking a shower

When a diamond is exposed to oils from certain soaps and shower gels, it can cause a film to build up over time. This film attracts dirt which causes the diamond to appear dull. To ensure your diamond maintains its brilliance and sparkle over time, it is best practice to take it off and store it in a safe spot before showering.

Skin nutrition concept. Unrecognizable black woman applying moisturizing cream to her hands

2. Remove jewellery when moisturising

They may be great for your skin, but your daily moisturiser, sun cream and lotions aren’t so great for your jewellery. Like oily soaps, creams and lotions can cause build-up and dull your stone over time. To avoid this from happening, remove your ring when applying creams and lotions and wait until your hands are completely dry before popping your ring back on.

3. Keep jewellery away from perfumes

It is also a good idea to avoid perfumes, hairspray and makeup from coming into direct contact with your jewellery. Over time they can tarnish the prongs, clasps and bands which hold the diamond in place.

Black woman seating down in a swimming pool side

4. Remove your jewellery when swimming

Prolonged exposure to chlorine can damage and discolour the metal of your jewellery. It can also cause pitting corrosion on gold alloys which weakens the alloy and increases the likelihood of losing a stone. On top of this, cold water can cause your fingers to shrink, making it much easier for a loose engagement ring to slip off – so the ocean is also off-limits.

5. Store your jewellery

To keep your precious jewellery safe and in good condition for eternity, it must be stored correctly. Storing your jewellery in a clean, dry place away from extreme temperatures, humidity, direct sunlight and harsh chemicals will prevent your jewellery from deteriorating over time. Diamonds can also damage other diamonds, gemstones and metals which is why we recommend jewellery boxes with individual plush-lined compartments to avoid your jewellery becoming scratched.

Cleaning Your Jewellery At Home

The safest method for cleaning your diamond at home is to soak it in warm water and a gentle degreasing solution such as a mild soap or detergent.

Leave it to soak for 15-40 minutes depending on how dirty it is.
Once you have left it to soak, gently scrub the jewellery with a soft brush such as a toothbrush, focusing on areas that gather dirt such as under the stone.
Finally, rinse with warm water and wipe with a lint-free cloth to remove any excess dirt.

As well as regularly cleaning your jewellery at home using the above steps, we recommend having your jewellery professionally cleaned at least once a year. This will keep it looking its best and ensure any signs of wear and tear are identified.

Looking for your own precious, one-of-a-kind piece of jewellery that will be treasured forever? Browse our how it works section for an insight into our bespoke process.

WITH LOVE