Learn How Professional Jewellers Clean Diamond Rings
Diamonds have a special place in our lives, including engagement rings and cherished family treasures. They may be the hardest natural material on Earth, but that doesn’t mean they stay flawless without minimal care. Over time, dirt, oils, and everyday wear can dull their shine.
While a simple soap-and-water wash can help, many prefer to trust professional jewellers for a thorough clean. These experts handle diamonds daily and use specialised techniques to restore their brilliance without risking damage.
But how exactly do jewellers clean diamond rings? Read more below to learn the diamond jewellery cleaning techniques they use to maintain its charm.
How Jewellers Clean Diamonds?
For a deep, professional clean, jewellers may use a high-tech device called an ultrasonic jewellery cleaner. This diamond cleaning machine uses ultrasonic sound waves and gentle vibrations to dislodge dirt and grime without dislodging or damaging your diamond.
The process begins with the jeweller filling the cleaner’s tank with a cleaning concentrate, followed by warm water. Once the liquid reaches the required level, the diamond rings are carefully placed on a designated hook or carousel inside the machine.
With the push of a button, the ultrasonic cleaner gets to work, sending tiny vibrations through the water to break down stubborn residues.
Depending on how dirty the ring is, the jeweller may let it soak for a minute or two before turning off the machine.
Finally, the ring is removed, given a thorough rinse under warm water, and dried to perfection. The result? A brilliantly clean diamond ring that looks as dazzling as the day you first put it on.
How Jewellers Clean the Metal Setting of a Diamond Ring
The metal setting of a diamond ring is equally as important as the stone itself for the ring’s longevity specific cleaning method to maintain its shine and strength.
The first step to clean the metal setting of a diamond ring is inspection. Professional diamond jewellers carefully examine the ring using a jewellery loupe, a small magnifying tool, to spot any scratches, tarnish, or signs of damage.
If the metal is bent or misshapen, they gently reshape it using specialist tools. Following this work is the use of fine emery paper of different grades.
Now to the polishing stage, a professional polishing machine is used to buff away minor scratches and surface scuffs, bringing back the metal’s original shine. This step enhances the ring's appearance and helps preserve its durability over time.
To finish, the setting is thoroughly cleaned using the ultrasonic bath.
Rhodium is used to enhance white carat gold, and depending on the wearer, is often recommended to repeat every two years. Platinum jewellery does not require rhodium plating.
With this careful, multi-step process, jewellers ensure that both the diamond and its metal setting look flawless, so the ring retains its lustre and shine.
Professional Cleaning vs. DIY Cleaning: Which is Right for You?
Keeping your diamond ring at its best requires regular care, and there are a couple of ways to do it. A gentle at-home clean using hot water (around 70 or more degrees) Handy Andy, which contains ammonia, and a soft toothbrush helps remove everyday buildup and keeps your ring shining. For a truly flawless finish, nothing beats a professional cleaning. A professional clean offers a deeper, more thorough result perfect for those who want their ring to look showroom-ready.
Here is a quick comparison:
Professional Cleaning:
Uses advanced tools like ultrasonic baths and polishing machines.
Tailored to the specific metal and stone.
Ideal for heavily soiled rings or annual maintenance.
Offers peace of mind for valuable pieces.
At-Home Cleaning:
Affordable and convenient.
Good for regular upkeep every few months.
Requires care to avoid harsh chemicals, such as Jiff, or Janola or abrasive tools.
Many diamond jewellery lovers strike a balance: cleaning at home regularly and booking a professional service once a year. Whichever route you choose, the key is gentle, consistent care to protect your ring’s longevity.
So now you know how jewellery stores clean diamond rings. The next time your ring loses its lustre, trust a jeweller to bring it back to life. And if you’re tempted to DIY, remember: a toothbrush and soap can help, but nothing beats the precision and power of a professional clean. Your precious diamond deserves it. Learn more about what Marc bendall can do for jewellery repairs.
