How to Clean a Diamond Ring

Revive that signature sparkle with a few simple steps.

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Published on July 28, 2023

A diamond ring brings a sentimental glimmer to the eye and a dazzling brilliance to the hand as it catches the light. But, without routine cleaning, diamond rings can lose their shine and become dull. While most jewelers offer cleaning and polishing services, it isn't always convenient to make the trip. So, we're sharing tips for how to clean a diamond ring at home and instructions for keeping your diamond jewelry sparkling with just a couple of cleaning products you probably already have on hand.

How Often to Clean a Diamond Ring

Hand creams, suntan lotion, perfumes, hand sanitizer, cosmetics, chlorine from swimming pools, and most household cleaners can all cause a diamond to look dull. That's why it's a good idea to remove your diamond ring whenever interacting with these products. The cleaning frequency depends on how well you treat your ring, but, it's best to give it a weekly cleaning to remove trapped grime and bacteria or just as soon as you notice that it looks dull. Allowing layers of grime to build up on the surfaces will make cleaning more difficult. According to New York-based jeweler De Beers, having a diamond ring cleaned professionally at least once a year is best to keep your ring in tip-top shape.

Considerations Before You Get Started

There are a few rules you should follow before you clean your diamond and the gold, platinum, or silver holding it in place.

Don't use a harsh cleaner like ammonia, chlorine bleach, or nail polish remover (acetone) to clean a diamond. Avoid abrasive products like toothpaste, baking soda, or powdered cleaners.
Don't soak the ring in a cleaning solution if it's surrounded by pearls, opals, or other soft gems. It's safe to soak the ring if it's mounted with emeralds, sapphires, or rubies.
Never scrub your ring with a stiff brush or scrubbing sponge. While this won't scratch the diamond, it can scratch the metal setting.
Ultrasonic jewelry cleaners make a diamond sparkle but can cause stones, particularly pavé set stones, to loosen. If you use one, have your ring checked regularly to make sure the stones are still securely in place.

What You'll Need

Equipment / Tools

Small bowl
Soft-bristled toothbrush
Soft cloth
Polishing cloth for metal

Materials

Dishwashing liquid that doesn't contain bleach

Instructions

How to Clean a Diamond Ring

Mix a Soaking Solution
- Pour one cup of hot water into a small bowl. (If you have more than two rings to clean at once, prepare separate bowls so the jewelry isn't crowded in the solution.)
- Add two or three drops of dishwashing liquid.
Don't clean your diamond ring in a sink. You don't want to see your ring go down the drain accidentally.
Soak and Brush Away Dirt
- Add the ring to the bowl and allow it to soak for at least 20 minutes (45 minutes max).
- After soaking, use an old, soft toothbrush to gently brush away any debris trapped in the diamond mounting. Brush both the inside and outside of the setting.
Rinse, Dry, and Polish
- Rinse the ring well in fresh, warm water.
- Dry the ring with a soft cotton or microfiber cloth. Do not use a paper towel which can leave lint and fibers behind.
- Use a jewelry polishing cloth to buff the metal band.

How to Keep Your Diamond Ring Clean Longer

Remove your ring when bathing and when putting on makeup and skincare.
Do not wear your ring in a hot tub or swimming pool.
Wear gloves or remove your ring when gardening or cleaning. Keep ring dishes handy so you won't lose your ring when you remove it.