Give your shiny diamond the engagement ring care it deserves!
Whether you’re still basking in the excitement of your proposal or busy making wedding plans, you’ll want to show that ring off every chance you get. Keep it looking as stunning as the day it was slipped onto your finger.
We’re excited to give you a complete care guide for engagement rings with the help of expertise from Blue Nile. Check out these insider tips and top FAQs:
Insure your engagement ring
The moment the question is popped, get that rock insured! It’s the best way to be prepared for whatever life has in store. Getting your ring insured will ease your mind and make life less painful should anything happen to it down the road.
Most insurance companies offer jewelry coverage. You likely can add an extension to your existing homeowners or renters’ policy.
Top Question: What is the average annual cost to insure an engagement ring?
Answer: Although prices can vary depending on where you live, the average annual cost to insure a ring is $1 to $2 for every $100 it would cost to replace it, according to The Knot. For example, if your ring is valued at $9.000, you’ll likely pay between $90 and $180 a year to insure it.
Know when to remove your ring
I get it. You have this beautiful, new piece of jewelry and you never want to take it off! But it won’t stay shiny and gorgeous — and could be gone forever! — if you don’t remove it from time to time.
You don’t have to take your engagement ring off every time you wash your hands. But there are times when you and your ring need to go separate ways. If you’re not comfortable removing your ring in public, consider swapping it out for a silicone band when it’s just too risky to wear.
Top Question: When should I remove my engagement ring?
Answer: A trip to the beach or pool could cause your fingers to shrink and your ring to fall off. The gym is another place where engagement rings don’t mix. From the rubbing of metal on metal to the risk of jamming a finger, it’s just too dangerous. It’s also a good idea to remove your ring when you’re housecleaning, showering, grooming or moisturizing.
How to clean your engagement ring
Every person you run into in the next year will want to take a peek at your sparkling diamond. The last thing you want them to see is a dirty, dull ring! Dirt and oil can build up quickly and block the light interactions in the stone.
Take a moment at least once a week to give your ring some TLC. The safest way to clean your engagement ring at home is to soak it in a solution of warm water and dish soap. Let it soak for 30 minutes and then gently brush the stone with a soft toothbrush and rinse under warm water. Air dry or use a soft cloth.
Top Question: How effective are ultrasonic jewelry cleaners for engagement ring care?
Answer: Ultrasonic jewelry cleaners use vibrations in the cleaning solution to produce a sparkling result. However, the vigorous movement can cause your diamond or other stones to become loose after multiple cleanings.
Check your ring regularly
You heard it here first: staring at your ring as much as possible is necessary. The better you know your ring, the quicker you will notice if something shifts or falls out. You can annually take it to a trusted jeweler for a “prong check,” but it’s more important to frequently monitor it yourself.
Top Question: What should I look for to make sure my ring is still in good shape?
Answer: Examine your engagement ring under a magnifying glass to make sure the prongs are all the same length. Hold it up to your ear and shake it to check if anything rattles. If something doesn’t seem right, make an appointment with your jeweler to have it checked out.
Give your ring a spot of its own
Since I know you’ll carefully remove your ring before doing dishes, taking a shower or doing other labor-intense activities, consider dedicating a safe space for it in your home.
Keep ring dishes and holders in the kitchen, bathroom, next to your bed and any other place you’re likely to take it off. It’s much easier to find your ring when you get in a habit of regularly placing it in the same spot.
Top Question: Does it matter what type of material I choose for my ring holder or dish?
Answer: Yes. You should try to avoid materials with texture that could scratch your ring in any way. A smooth metal, ceramic or wood surface is safe for most rings.
Engagement ring care to preserve the sparkle
I know how important “the ring” is to any soon-to-be-bride. It’s a symbol of love from the person you wish to spend the rest of your life with. So be gentle with it and take precautions so you both sparkle on your wedding day and beyond!
