Engagement Ring Care: How to Clean and Protect Your Ring
An engagement ring is made to be worn - through daily routines, quiet moments, and the rhythm of everyday life. With time, it naturally collects traces of that life: hand cream, dust, the soft sheen of wear. Caring for your ring doesn't need to be complicated. A simple, intentional ritual keeps it looking its best for years to come.
Here is a guide to cleaning and protecting your engagement ring at home, with a few jeweller-approved habits that make a meaningful difference.
How to Clean Your Engagement Ring at Home
A gentle weekly clean helps your ring maintain its natural clarity and brightness.
1. Create a mild cleaning solution
- Mix warm water with a small amount of mild dish soap.
- Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners - they can dull metal or damage certain gemstones.
2. Soak your ring
Place your ring in the solution for 10–20 minutes. This softens oils and residue without the need for scrubbing.
3. Brush gently
Use a soft toothbrush to clean around the setting and under the stone. Small, delicate movements are enough - especially for detailed or antique-style settings.
4. Rinse & dry carefully
Rinse your ring under lukewarm water and pat it dry with a lint-free cloth. Avoid paper towels, which can create tiny scratches.
This simple ritual restores clarity and helps keep your stone secure by preventing buildup around the setting.
How Often Should You Clean Your Ring?
- Weekly: A gentle at-home clean
- Seasonally: A professional clean and inspection
- Anytime: If the ring feels dull or the stone appears cloudy
Regular care helps keep the setting secure and ensures your gemstones look their best.
When to Avoid Wearing Your Ring
While engagement rings are made for everyday life, there are moments when removing them protects both the metal and the stone.
Take your ring off when:
- A pplying lotions, oils, or hair products
- Swimming (chlorine and saltwater can be harsh)
- Lifting weights or using gym equipment
- Gardening or working with tools
- Sleeping, if you have a delicate setting
These small habits help prevent unnecessary wear and tear over time.
Caring for Different Gemstones
Not all stones require the same care. Diamonds, sapphires, and salt-and-pepper diamonds are highly durable - ideal for daily wear. Other stones, such as emeralds or softer gems, benefit from a little more attention.
Diamonds
Strong and resilient, but still need regular cleaning to maintain brightness.
Sapphires & Spinels
Durable and suitable for everyday wear; mild soap and warm water are perfect.
Emeralds
Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steamers. Use only gentle soap and lukewarm water.
Soft or porous gemstones
Opals, turquoise, and pearls require special care and should never be soaked. If you’re unsure, our team can advise on the best cleaning method for your particular gemstone.
Protecting Your Ring Over Time
A few intentional habits help your engagement ring stay beautiful for decades.
Have your ring checked
Visit a jeweller once or twice a year for a quick inspection of prongs and settings - especially for larger stones or intricate designs.
Store it safely
When it’s not worn, keep your ring in a soft jewellery pouch or box, separate from other pieces.
Avoid extreme temperature changes
Sudden heat or cold can stress certain stones and metals.
Keep it dry when possible
Even the strongest stones benefit from being kept away from chemicals, perfumes, and prolonged humidity.
Professional Cleaning & Complimentary Care
Alongside your at-home routine, we offer complimentary cleaning and polishing for all Maya Magal engagement rings - a simple way to restore your ring’s clarity and ensure the setting remains secure.
A quick visit to our London stores includes:
- P rofessional steam or ultrasonic cleaning (depending on stone)
- Setting inspection
- Light polish
- Aftercare advice tailored to your gemstone and metal
Your ring is made to last a lifetime - a little professional care helps ensure it does.
A Simple Ritual of Care
Caring for your engagement ring isn’t about caution - it’s about connection. A small ritual that honours the piece you wear every day.
With gentle at-home cleaning, mindful habits, and occasional professional care, your ring will remain clear, secure, and beautiful for years to come. Whenever you’re nearby, you’re welcome to bring your ring in for complimentary cleaning - a quiet moment of care for a piece that carries meaning.
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