How to Clean Diamond Jewelry: A Complete
Care Guide for Long-Lasting Sparkle

Diamonds reflect light from every angle. When oils and grime settle on the surface or under the stone, light can’t travel properly. Even a thin film of residue can noticeably reduce sparkle.
Cleaning diamond jewelry regularly helps:

• Restore natural brilliance and fire
• Prevent long-term buildup under prongs and settings
• Maintain the shine of yellow gold, white gold, and platinum
• Reduce the risk of hidden damage or loose stones
• Extend the overall life of the jewelry

Clean jewelry also looks brighter in photos, under indoor lighting, and in sunlight, making a visible difference in everyday wear.

The frequency depends on how often you wear your jewelry.

Diamond jewelry worn daily, such as engagement rings or diamond studs, should be lightly cleaned once a week. This prevents oils from hardening and becoming difficult to remove.

Jewelry worn occasionally can be cleaned every one to two months or before special events.

Professional cleaning is recommended once or twice a year. Jewelers use specialized tools to clean deeply and inspect prongs, settings, and clasps for wear.

• Start by filling a small bowl with warm water. The water should feel comfortable to the touch, not hot. Add a few drops of mild dish soap and mix gently to create a light solution.
• Place your diamond jewelry in the bowl and allow it to soak for 15 to 20 minutes. This soaking process loosens oil, dirt, and residue trapped beneath the stone and around the setting.
• After soaking, use a soft toothbrush, baby brush, or makeup brush to gently clean the diamond and metal. Pay special attention to the underside of the stone and around prongs, as these areas collect the most buildup.
• Rinse the jewelry thoroughly under clean running water. Always close the drain or use a strainer to avoid losing your jewelry. Pat dry with a lint-free cloth and allow the piece to air dry completely before wearing or storing it. This method restores shine without damaging the diamond or weakening the setting.

Diamond rings come in many styles, and some need extra care.

Solitaire diamond rings are usually the easiest to clean because the stone is exposed and easy to reach.

Pavé, halo, and micro-pavé rings require a lighter touch. These styles contain many small diamonds held by tiny prongs. Use minimal pressure when brushing and avoid aggressive scrubbing.

Vintage and antique rings should be cleaned gently and less frequently. Older settings may have worn prongs or delicate metal that can loosen with harsh cleaning.

If you ever notice movement in the stone or hear a faint rattling sound, stop cleaning and take the ring to a professional jeweler.

Ultrasonic cleaners use vibrations to shake dirt loose from jewelry. While effective, they’re not suitable for all diamond pieces.

Ultrasonic cleaning is generally safe for:

• Modern solitaire diamond rings
• Well-secured prong settings
• Solid gold or platinum jewelry

Avoid ultrasonic cleaners if your jewelry has:

• Pavé or micro-pavé diamonds
• Fracture-filled or treated diamonds
• Emerald cut or step-cut diamonds with visible inclusions
• Antique or heirloom jewelry

The vibrations can loosen small stones or worsen existing fractures. When unsure, stick to gentle hand cleaning.

Steam cleaning removes heavy buildup quickly and restores shine almost instantly. Professional jewelers often use steam safely because they control pressure and temperature.

At-home steam cleaners can be risky. Sudden temperature changes may weaken metal or loosen stones, especially in older or intricate settings.

Steam cleaning is best left to professionals unless your jeweler confirms it’s safe for your specific piece.

Using the wrong products can cause long-term damage.

Avoid:

• Bleach and chlorine, which weaken metal
• Toothpaste or baking soda, which are abrasive
• Household cleaners with ammonia or acids
• Acetone on soft metals or plated jewelry
• Rough cloths or paper towels

These substances may scratch metal, erode prongs, or cause discoloration over time.

Diamond earrings accumulate oil faster than most jewelry because they sit close to the skin and hair.

Soak earrings in warm soapy water for 10 to 15 minutes. Gently brush behind the diamond, along the post, and around the backing.

Pay close attention to screw backs, lever backs, and push backs, as buildup often hides in these areas.

Rinse well and dry completely before wearing.

Chains and tennis bracelets trap dirt between links and settings.

Lay the jewelry flat in the cleaning solution and allow it to soak. Gently brush along the chain, clasp, and around each diamond.

Rinse carefully and dry flat to prevent tangling. Never pull or stretch the chain while cleaning.

Small habits make a big difference.

Remove diamond jewelry before applying lotion, sunscreen, perfume, or makeup. Take it off before workouts, swimming, showering, or household cleaning.

Wipe diamonds with a soft cloth after wearing to remove surface oils.

Store diamond jewelry separately in soft pouches or lined boxes to prevent scratching other pieces.

Professional cleaning is recommended if:

• The diamond still looks dull after home cleaning
• You notice loose prongs or bent settings
• The jewelry has sentimental or high monetary value
• The piece has intricate or vintage details

Jewelers can clean, tighten, polish, and inspect your jewelry safely.