16-05-2025
How To Clean A Diamond Ring, According To An Expert
Diamonds are a big investment, and they have strong sentimental value, so you want to make sure they're always at full shine potential. The best way to clean a diamond ring is to be purposeful, careful and consistent. Whether you're polishing your diamond engagement ring, wedding band or cocktail ring, there are specific rules to follow. We spoke to Ali Galgano, jeweler and owner of Serpentine Jewels, for her expert tips on how to clean a diamond ring—and keep your precious stones safe and sparkling.
For more on diamonds and where to get them, check out our stories on the best places to buy engagement rings, the best place to buy diamonds, the best online jewelry stores and the best lab-grown diamonds.
'The safest and most effective way to clean a diamond ring is with a simple solution of warm water and a gentle, ammonia-free dish soap,' Galgano says. In a small bowl, mix one to two drops of a gentle soap, like Dawn, with warm tap water. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently brush your diamond, paying careful attention to cleaning around the setting and on the underside of the stone if the setting allows. (Pro tip: It sounds obvious, but never clean your ring over an open drain.)
Another option is to purchase a dedicated cleaning system. 'The Juli Brush uses gentle, fine bristles and a specially formulated cleaner that's safe for diamonds, gold and most gemstones,' Galgano says. Or, if you're looking for an on-the-go jewelry cleaner for travel, we like the Bling Brush.
If your diamond ring incorporates gemstones, it may require a different cleaning method. 'Diamonds are very durable—a 10 on the Mohs scale—but many gemstones are not,' Galgano says. 'If your ring includes other gemstones, like emeralds, opals, pearls or sapphires, extra caution is required. Porous or delicate stones like pearls, turquoise, opals or emeralds can be permanently damaged by ultrasonic cleaners, harsh chemicals and even prolonged soaking.' If you're not certain, consult a professional to be safe.
While ultrasonic cleaners can be good for some pieces, 'they must be used carefully and avoided altogether if the piece has delicate or porous stones,' Galgano says. Ultrasonic cleaners can also dislodge stones if the ring's setting is compromised.
Different metal settings require a specific approach too. Platinum and gold are durable, but they still require gentle cleaning with soft brushes and mild solutions, according to Galgano. 'Avoid abrasive cleaners, which can scratch or wear away the finish,' she says. 'White gold that's been rhodium-plated can lose its plating if scrubbed too hard, so if you're cleaning at home, be extra gentle.' For sterling silver, a silver polishing cloth can help restore shine without causing damage.
When cleaning, you should never use bleach, acetone or chlorine-based cleaners, as they can severely damage the metal and weaken settings. Also avoid abrasive toothpaste or baking soda, as they can scratch the metal and dull the polish.
The setting of your diamond ring can determine how you address dirt and grime. 'Prong settings tend to trap dirt easily around the base of the stone, so they need extra attention with a soft brush,' Galgano says. 'Bezel settings are more enclosed and protect the stone better but can also trap grime underneath. A soaking method is ideal for these.'
Even the sparkliest diamonds can look dull quickly, depending on your habits. 'At home, you should aim to give your ring a gentle cleaning every one to two weeks if you wear it daily,' Galgano says. Ideally, you should take off your diamond ring for things like workouts and when applying lotion, but if not, you may need to clean it more frequently. How to know when to refresh your ring: If it's looking cloudy or less brilliant, it feels gritty to the touch or there's visible buildup around the setting, it's time to clean it, Galgano says.
Just as you would get a checkup at the dentist, it's best to bring your ring to a trusted jeweler every six months or so for a professional cleaning and inspection. 'Not only does a jeweler use specialized tools to clean more deeply and safely, but they'll also check the security of the setting, preventing loss or damage before it happens,' Galgano says.
