How to Clean Diamond Jewellery at Home, Safely

Diamonds love grease. Skin oil, lotion, hairspray and soap film settle on the stone and block light, which is why a diamond can look dull even though nothing is wrong with it. The fix is simple and safe.

What you need

• A small bowl of warm (not hot) water.
• A few drops of mild dish soap.
• A soft brush, such as a baby toothbrush.
• A lint-free cloth.

The method

1. Soak. Put the jewellery in the soapy water for 20 to 30 minutes. This loosens the grease.
2. Brush gently. Use the soft brush on the stone from the top and from underneath, and around the setting, where dirt collects.
3. Rinse. Rinse under lukewarm running water. Put a plug in the sink, or use a strainer bowl, so that nothing goes down the drain.
4. Dry. Pat dry with a lint-free cloth, and let the piece air dry fully.
5. Polish. Buff the metal gently with a soft cloth.

How often

For pieces you wear daily, a gentle clean every one to two weeks keeps them bright. Occasional pieces need cleaning before you wear them.

What to avoid

• Harsh chemicals: bleach and strong household cleaners can damage gold alloys and the solder in a setting.
• Abrasives: toothpaste, baking soda scrubs and rough cloths scratch metal.
• Hot water: sudden heat is not good for stones with fractures, and for pieces with delicate parts.
• Hard brushing: a stiff brush can scratch metal or loosen small stones.
• Ultrasonic cleaners and steam unless a jeweller says it is safe for the piece. Stones with fractures or loose settings can be damaged. Leave these to a professional.

Special cases

• Pavé and cluster pieces: have many tiny stones. Be gentle, and check for loose stones as you clean.
• Pieces with pearls or soft gemstones: do not soak them. Wipe with a damp cloth.
• White gold: clean the same way. The bright finish may need refreshing after years of wear.

Check while you clean

Cleaning is a good time to look at the piece. Hold it up to the light and check that each stone sits firmly. If a stone moves, or you hear a rattle, stop wearing the piece and take it to a jeweller. See how often to check your jewellery prongs and clasps.

Professional cleaning

A jeweller can clean and polish your piece with proper tools, and check the setting. Many offer this as a service. Once or twice a year is a good rhythm for jewellery you wear every day. At our showroom, cleaning and inspection is part of our service. Book an appointment to arrange it.

Why a diamond looks dull

If a clean does not help, the cause may be something else. See why a diamond looks cloudy and how to fix it.

Common questions

Can I use a commercial jewellery cleaner? Some are safe for diamonds and gold. Read the label and make sure it suits the metal and any other stones in the piece.

Can I clean while wearing it? It is better to remove it. You will clean more thoroughly, and avoid dropping it.

How do I clean a diamond ring with a gemstone too? Treat it as you would the more delicate stone, and avoid soaking or ultrasonic cleaning.

A few more tips

Cleaning habits keep jewellery looking new. Put jewellery on after you apply creams and perfume. Store pieces separately. See how to store diamond and gold jewellery. If you are looking for pieces to wear every day, browse our diamond rings and earrings.