Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and this feature about How to Keep Your Diamonds Clean and Sparkling.
The festive season can often be incredibly hectic, which can be bad news for delicate jewellery. While you may want to bring your most dazzling diamond necklaces, rings, and bracelets out during the run-up to Christmas, it’s also worth thinking about how you’ll clean and restore them afterwards. By doing so, you’ll help them to not just look the part but also to last for years to come.
Maintaining that unmistakable diamond sparkle doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few simple habits, you can keep your pieces looking just as luminous long after the Christmas tree is packed away.
How to Keep Your Diamonds Clean and Sparkling
Why Diamonds Lose Their Sparkle
The surface of a diamond needs to be perfectly smooth to reflect light straight back at the person looking at it. The rougher the surface, the more diffused the light will be. And, when we’re talking about a very tough, polished gemstone, even a little bit of roughness can make a big difference.
Even though diamonds are the hardest natural material, they’re surprisingly good at attracting oils and residue. Everyday contact with moisturisers, cosmetics, perfume, and natural skin oils can leave a thin film over the surface, blocking the light that gives diamonds their brilliance.
The stone itself is unlikely to scratch, but the metal setting around it is far more delicate and can become marked or dulled if not cared for properly.
Pro Tip: If your diamond looks slightly cloudy or darker around the edges, that’s your cue for a gentle clean.
Simple At-Home Cleaning Tips
So, what’s the solution? In simple terms, we need to clean the stone more frequently, in such a way that it’s not going to be damaged by the cleaning process.
Cleaning diamonds at home is quick, safe, and effective when done with the right products. Start by filling a small bowl with warm water and a drop of mild dish soap. Let your jewellery soak for around 15 minutes to loosen any grime.
Use a soft-bristle toothbrush to gently clean around the stone, paying special attention to the underside and the prongs where oils tend to accumulate. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.
Scrub thoroughly, but gently. While the diamond can’t be scratched easily, you might scratch the metal into which it is set. Certain metals, like silver, require a specific kind of care and attention if they’re going to avoid tarnishing.
Pro Tip: Avoid toothpaste, baking soda, or harsh cleaners — they can scratch the metal and reduce the overall shine.
When to Seek Professional Cleaning
At-home cleaning keeps your jewellery fresh, but occasional professional care can restore a level of brilliance that’s difficult to achieve yourself. A jeweller can deep-clean the stone, check the setting, tighten loose prongs, and polish the metal.
Some jewellers use ultrasonic cleaning — a method where high-frequency vibrations dislodge even the most stubborn residue. This is effective but not suitable for every piece, especially antique or delicate settings, so always make sure to entrust your items to an expert who understands your jewellery.
Pro Tip: Aim for a professional check-up every 6–12 months, particularly for pieces you wear daily.
Storage Matters
How you store your diamond jewellery has a huge impact on how it ages. Tossing pieces into a drawer or makeup bag allows them to rub against other items, potentially scratching softer gemstones or the metal around the diamond.
A dedicated jewellery box with soft, silk or velvet-lined compartments is ideal. Separating individual pieces prevents friction and keeps them looking pristine.
If you own high-value or sentimental items, consider storing them in a home safe for extra peace of mind. This way, you’ll reduce the risk of them being stolen and give yourself peace of mind. The good news is that there are plenty of high-quality options. Pick out the one that best matches your budget and your home.
Pro Tip: When travelling, use a compact jewellery case with individual sections to avoid tangles and abrasions on the go.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
Festive gatherings — and everyday routines — often involve things that can quickly dull your jewellery. Applying hand cream, washing up, styling your hair, cooking, and certain cleaning products can all leave residue on your diamonds.
Make it a habit to remove rings and bracelets during these moments. Night creams are also a surprising culprit for cloudy stones, so consider taking off your jewellery before bed.
Pro Tip: Keep a small, pretty dish on your bedside table or kitchen shelf. It acts as a reminder to remove your jewellery before doing anything messy
Final Thoughts — How to Keep Your Diamonds Clean and Sparkling
By incorporating these simple habits into your routine, you’ll keep your diamonds clean, bright, and full of life all year long. Whether you wear them for everyday elegance or festive sparkle, proper care ensures your jewellery remains a cherished part of your collection for years to come.
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With love,
