An engagement ring is among the most special pieces of jewellery that one will ever own; representing one’s love for their partner and your unbreakable bond. For such a treasured piece of jewellery, it's important to take care of it properly and keep it looking its best. Proper care and maintenance of your engagement ring can help to extend its life and ensure that it remains a beautiful and meaningful symbol of your relationship for years to come.
Get your ring cleaned and inspected
WikiHow / Cleaning your engagement ring
One of the most important things you can do to care for your engagement ring is to have it cleaned and inspected on a regular basis. A professional jeweller can clean your ring to remove any dirt or grime that has accumulated over time, and can also inspect it for any damage or issues that may need to be addressed. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help to keep your ring looking its best and ensure that it remains in good condition.
Be careful about what you expose your ring to
Swagmat / A silicone ring is a popular choice to wear for people who are very active or play a lot of sports, so as not to damage their engagement ring whilst doing these activities
It's also a good idea to handle your engagement ring with care to prevent damage. Avoid wearing your ring while participating in activities that may cause it to be scratched or damaged, such as sports or manual labour. It's also a good idea to remove your ring when applying lotions, perfumes, or other products, as these can dull the gemstones and cause them to lose their sparkle.
It’s important to be mindful of the types of products you use on your engagement ring as well. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the gemstones and the metal. Instead, opt for a mild soap and warm water to clean your ring, or use a soft, dry cloth to gently wipe away any dirt or grime.
Securing your engagement ring
Peter Hansen / A beautiful homemade ring box, originally used to present an engagement ring, but then used to secure it and keep it safe for many years to come
When storing your engagement ring, it's important to keep it in a safe and secure place to prevent it from being lost or damaged. A jewellery box or pouch is a good option, as it will keep your ring protected from dust and other elements. If you don't have a jewellery box or pouch, you can also wrap your ring in a soft, clean cloth and store it in a safe place, such as a locked drawer or a safe deposit box.
Insuring your engagement ring
In addition to regular cleaning and maintenance, there are a few other things you can do to care for your engagement ring. One option is to invest in a ring insurance policy, which can help to protect your ring in the event of loss, theft, or damage. A ring insurance policy will typically cover the replacement value of your ring, and can give you some reassurance that you can sleep at night knowing that your ring is protected.
Rhodium plating
One more involved process of caring for your engagement ring is to have your ring rhodium plated. Rhodium is a hard, shiny metal that is often used to plate white gold engagement rings. It helps to protect the ring from scratches and wear, and can also help to restore its shine. If your white gold engagement ring has lost its shine or is looking a bit dull, rhodium plating can be a great way to restore its lustre.
LostEmpireVantage / A rhodium plated vintage engagement ring
Overall, proper care and maintenance of your engagement ring is important to ensure that it remains a beautiful and meaningful symbol of your relationship for years to come. Whether you go to the extremes of getting it rhodium plated, or just treat it with a little bit of care and attention; you can keep your ring looking its best and have the peace of mind that it should maintain its good condition and act as an heirloom for generations to come.
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