How to care for your diamond jewelry

Diamonds are the hardest natural material on earth, but even the finest jewelry needs a little care to keep shining. Everyday life leaves behind lotion, soap and oils that dull a diamond's sparkle, and daily wear can loosen the settings that hold your stones in place. The good news: a few simple habits go a long way.

Know when to take it off

Remove your jewelry before:

• Swimming. Chlorine can weaken gold over time, and cold water can make rings slip off your finger.
• Cleaning. Household chemicals like bleach can damage metal and leave residue on your stones.
• Gardening or working out. Knocks against hard surfaces and weights can bend prongs or loosen stones.

It's also a good idea to put your jewelry on last when getting ready, after lotion, perfume and hairspray.

Clean it gently at home

You don't need special equipment to keep your diamonds sparkling between visits:

1. Soak your piece for a few minutes in warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap.
2. Gently brush around the stone and under the setting with a soft toothbrush, where oils tend to build up.
3. Rinse in clean, warm water (over a bowl, not an open drain).
4. Dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.

Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive powders and toothpaste, which can scratch metal.

Store pieces separately

Because diamonds are so hard, they can scratch other jewelry, and even other diamonds. Keep each piece in its own soft pouch or a lined jewelry box compartment. Fasten necklaces and bracelets before storing them so the chains don't tangle.

Check your settings

Every so often, take a close look at your jewelry. Hold a ring up to your ear and tap it gently: a faint rattle can mean a stone is loose. Watch for prongs that look bent or snag on clothing, and clasps that don't close firmly. Catching small issues early is the best way to avoid losing a stone.

Let us take care of it for you

Every purchase from Lab Grown Diamond Centre includes a free three-year warranty with complimentary professional cleaning and inspection. Bring your piece in anytime during your warranty and we'll clean it and check the prongs, settings and clasps, so it keeps looking the way it did on day one.

Learn more about what our warranty covers, or visit us at West Edmonton Mall, Phase 1, Lower level. You can also call us at (825) 480-2471.