Care Instructions for Your Diamond Engagement Ring During Summer Activities

Rocking a diamond ring for the first time can seem a little daunting, especially since it holds so much value for you, both emotionally and financially. You probably have a lot of questions about how to care for a diamond ring as you gaze down at your shiny new gem, as it will be a permanent addition to your left hand. Proper  engagement ring care is extremely important in order to keep the diamond sparkling and safely on your finger for years to come! During the summer, there are some things that you can do to protect your newest piece of jewelry as you head outside for warm-weather activities.

Fun in the Sun

Protecting your new engagement ring is important when gearing up for summer fun, which can cause unique wear and tear on your jewelry. While you will sometimes be able to take your ring off before heading off to the beach or on a summer getaway, sometimes it will be unavoidable (or unthinkable!). We get it - just make sure  your rings are sized correctly before taking a dip so they don’t slip off to be lost forever in the sand on your honeymoon or a random pool vent at your neighbor’s luau. And for those of you who are more sunbathers than swimmers, you should still be wary of sand sports (such as volleyball or day drinking), since sunscreen and sand can dull and scratch your diamond. As a part of regular engagement ring care, be sure to clean your ring thoroughly with mild dish soap and water after a day in the sun, and don’t forget to store it in a safe place while traveling.

Know When to Leave your Ring at Home

Taking your shiny new ring off might be heartbreaking, but knowing how to care for a diamond ring begins with understanding when to leave it at home. A visit to the beach is a good place to lose your ring with slippery sunblock and frequent ocean dips, so instead, grab a small dish and leave your rings at home in a safe place. For heavy exercise and extended outdoor activities, such as rock climbing or golfing, consider wearing a silicone wedding band and leaving your priceless  diamond wedding ring at home to avoid damage to the stone, band, or setting (and protect your fingers from constriction due to swelling in the summer heat).

Regular Cleaning and Repair

How and Where to Clean your Ring

DIY and professional engagement ring care are key to keeping your diamond sparkling and your setting snug, especially with all that sweat, sunblock and sand. Cleaning monthly is recommended, although life happens and sometimes you can forget. Getting it cleaned professionally (most jewelry stores will do so for free!) or cleaning at home at least four times a year is a good start, and it will help you keep an eye out for any worn prongs to replace. At home, using mild dish detergent and warm water as a soak will help keep your diamond looking sparkly and new! Just make sure not to use any chlorine-based detergents, as this chemical will erode the ring (and avoid wearing it into the pool if you can). Also, remember to plug the drain before you rinse it off under the faucet!

When to Get Your Ring Repaired

While you should check your ring regularly for any loose settings or gemstones, have a professional take a look at your ring at least twice a year, ideally at the beginning and end of the summer season. This is a must for engagement ring care, as it prevents stones from falling out during summer activities. If you do need to get your ring fixed, know what to expect from  wedding ring repair - including prong adjustment, stone resetting, ring resizing, and general buffing and polishing. Be sure to ask your jeweler if he or she is certified with the American Gem Society (AGS) or Gemological Association of America (GIA), and get an estimate before you agree to any repairs.

Protection is Key

Even with regular maintenance and care, accidents happen. Purchasing wedding ring insurance or adding it to already existing homeowner or renters insurance is a must for protecting your wallet in case of a damaged, lost, or stolen ring. Especially with unique pieces,such as family heirlooms or  handmade diamond engagement rings, insurance will help you replace a highly valuable ring. Get your ring appraised and insured as early as possible in case of an accident over the summer season, and you’ll be well on your way to proper engagement ring care.