Clean Diamonds

No matter what the size, color and clarity of your diamond, and even no matter how well it is cut, it just won't look great if you don't keep it clean.

The reason for this is that the surface of diamonds has an affinity to grease and oil - as in soap, shampoo, body oils and the like. This property actually helps extract diamond from it's ore base in the mining process, but that's another story.

When the surface of the diamond get's dirty it drastically limits its ability to allow light into the stone and to properly reflect light as well. That's not good. So the moral of this story is to keep your diamonds clean!

That doesn't mean you have to spend a part of each day in the jewelry store. I'm an old-fashioned kind of guy who likes to keep things simple, so I'd suggest this recipe for success:

Mix 1 part light detergent – I always liked that bald-headed guy with the earring, Mr. Clean – 1 part ammonia, and 2 parts water. Dip your ring in the solution and brush gently with a tired old toothbrush. Rinse thoroughly with cool clear water. Ta-da.

Do not use abrasives like Comet or Ajax or the Barkeepers Friend. They won't hurt your diamond, which is the hardest substance known to mankind. But they'll wreak havoc on your settings.

Around every six months, I’d suggest you have your ring professionally cleaned at your local jeweler. While you’re there be sure to have the setting checked for any loose diamonds or other normal wear-and-tear. This will keep your diamond safe and secure, ensuring you a lifetime of enjoyment.