You want your jewelry to always look its best. When it comes to jewelry, regular maintenance is key in preserving its beauty and shine. A professional cleaning of your ring should be done at least once a year, but there are also certain signs that indicate you should get your ring professionally cleaned more frequently.
The most noticeable indication that it’s time for a professional clean is of course when your ring looks dull or lacks its original shine. This can occur from build-up of oils, dirt and grime that accumulates on the surface and can be difficult to remove with home cleaning methods. Aside from this, here are 6 other things to look out for in maintaining your jewelry’s shine!
1. Dirt and Dust
If you notice dirt or dust buildup in the crevices of the design, it’s time to get it professionally cleaned. This is especially true if the dirt is hard to remove with a simple wipe down. Leaving dirt or dust on the ring can cause damage over time, so it’s best to get it cleaned as soon as possible.
2. Discoloration or Rust
If you see discoloration, rust, or even tarnish on your ring, it’s likely due to oxidation and needs to be polished and cleaned immediately by a professional. Rust can be harmful to the metal as well as your skin, so it’s important to take care of it as soon as you notice it, and to discontinue wear until it has been addressed.
3. Loss of Brilliance
Over time, the facets of a ring can become dull and prevent light from reflecting off its surface. A professional cleaning will help restore its brilliance. The brilliance of a gemstone never changes, so if you notice a change in the color or vibrancy of your gemstone that isn’t due to dirt, it may be time to have your gem examined for possible damage or even a loose setting.
4. Prong Damage or Loose Stones
If you notice any damage to the prongs that are holding your gemstones in place, it’s extremely important to have it looked at and cleaned by a professional. This will help prevent any further damage or loss of stones.
5. Bad Odor
While this may seem like an odd or uncommon occurrence, it does happen. If you notice an unusual odor coming from your ring, it’s definitely time to get it professionally cleaned. Unusual odors can indicate the presence of bacteria or other contaminants on your ring.
6. Unusual Stains or Patches
If you notice strange stains, marks, or patches on your ring, it’s important to have it professionally cleaned. These can be caused by sweat, dirt, and other contaminants that need to be removed ASAP to prevent further damage.
When it comes to jewelry, regular maintenance is key in preserving its beauty and shine. If you notice any of the signs mentioned above, it’s time to get your ring professionally cleaned. Doing so will help keep your ring sparkling like new!