When it comes to maintaining your diamond ring, it’s essential to keep it sparkling and beautiful. In addition to removing nail polish effectively, acetone is a great stain remover. But can you use it on a diamond ring?
You cannot use nail polish remover on a diamond ring. It can damage and weaken the metal setting and cause the diamond to look cloudy and scratched. Thankfully, since diamonds are incredibly durable stones, a professional cleaning will reverse the effects of acetone.
In this article, I’ll explain what nail polish remover does to diamonds and diamond rings. I’ll also discuss other products not to use when cleaning a diamond ring, and the correct method of doing so. Let’s dive right in!
What Nail Polish Remover Does To Diamonds
Nail polish remover is a potent substance that’s designed to break down strong nail polish molecules and bonds. It consists of strong-smelling chemicals, such as acetone and ethyl acetate.
When you use nail polish remover on a diamond ring, it can erode, weaken, and damage the metal in which your diamond is set. This depends on how much nail polish remover the ring was exposed to and for how long.
After nail polish remover exposure, you can expect the metal to have the following effects:
- Dull appearance
- Scratching
- Chipping
- Thinning
With prolonged and severe nail polish exposure, your diamond might come loose from its setting.
Thankfully, due to their durable nature, diamonds can withstand nail polish remover exposure much better. You can expect the diamond to look cloudy or scratched, but this can easily be remedied with a professional cleaning at your jeweler.
If you must use nail polish remover on a diamond, be sure to do it carefully and only use a non-acetone remover. Non-acetone removers are generally considered to be safer for diamonds and other gems but should still be used with caution.
What Not To Use To Clean a Diamond Ring
When it comes to cleaning your diamond rings, you should avoid certain chemicals and cleaners as they can discolor the diamond’s surface or cause it to look cloudy.
These include:
- Ammonia: Ammonia is a powerful cleaning agent, and it can be tempting to use it to clean your diamond ring. However, ammonia can damage the setting and weaken the metal, causing the diamond to loosen or fall out. The ammonia can also cause discoloration or dulling, causing the stone to lose its sparkle. Ammonia can also corrode the metal, making it brittle and more prone to breaking.
- Bleach: Using bleach to clean a diamond ring is a big no-no. Bleach is an extremely harsh chemical that can cause permanent damage to your diamond ring. Even if you dilute it and use it sparingly, it can still harm the metal, leading to discoloration and tarnishing. Bleach can also make the diamond look dull and less sparkly.
Additionally, you should avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners, as these devices are unpredictable when it comes to cleaning diamond rings. Rather, stick to the basics and avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
The Best Method of Cleaning a Diamond Ring
Cleaning a diamond ring is essential for keeping it looking its best, and there are a few tried and tested methods. The most recommended method is using a mild dish soap solution and hot water.
Here’s how to do it:
- Mix a few drops of mild dish soap into a bowl of lukewarm water.
- Leave the ring to soak for around 30 minutes.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to scrub the ring with the solution gently. It’s important not to scrub too hard, as this may damage the metal.
- Once the ring is clean, use a lint-free cloth to dry it.
You can also use a commercial jewelry cleaning solution without harsh chemicals for deeper cleaning. Read the directions on the cleaner before using it, and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Better yet, take your ring to your jeweler for a professional clean and peace of mind.
How Often Should You Clean a Diamond Ring?
Cleaning your diamond ring is an important part of maintaining its beauty and keeping it looking sparkly. If you wear your diamond ring all the time, you should clean it once a week to remove dirt, oil, and other debris. Luckily, this isn’t time-consuming and only takes a few minutes.
You can follow the steps above for a diamond ring, but consider having it professionally cleaned and inspected once a year to ensure it’s in top condition. With these tips, you can keep your diamond ring shining brightly for years.
The Best Ways To Care for a Diamond Ring
A diamond ring is a special and precious item, so it’s important to take proper care of it. Here are some tips to help keep your diamond ring looking as beautiful as the day you got it:
- Don’t expose your diamond ring to harsh chemicals that could damage the metal or dull the stone.
- Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures and abrasive surfaces
- Remove the ring or use gloves when using household cleaners, abrasive soaps, and acid-based jewelry cleaners.
- Store your diamond ring in a velvet or felt-lined jewelry box or soft cloth pouch when you’re not wearing it. This will help prevent scratches, keep the metal from tarnishing, and ensure you don’t lose it.
- Get your diamond ring professionally cleaned and inspected annually. This will help keep it looking its best and ensure any potential issues are caught early
- Don’t forget to insure your diamond ring. That way, if anything ever happens to it, you’ll be able to get it repaired or replaced.
- If you need to wear it while engaging in activities that could cause damage, be sure to take it off and safely store it afterward.
Conclusion
Diamond rings are special pieces of jewelry that can last a lifetime if you care for them correctly. You should avoid using nail polish remover around your diamond ring because it can damage, scuff, or weaken the metal holding the diamond in place.
