Frequently Asked Questions: How Do I Care For My Tiffany-style Engagement Ring?

By Ashley Bailey, Monday, November 15, 2010 9:58 AM

A good ring is built to last, but it is definitely normal, especially for a high-profile tiffany-style engagement ring, to accumulate dirt and small scratches. If you wear your tiffany-style engagement ring every day, all the little things you do every day, from fishing around in your purse to eating a sandwich, can add little bits of dust and dirt that can drastically cut down the brilliance of your ring.

Unlike sunken settings like the bezel, the tiffany-style setting raises the diamond above the ring band, creating an empty space beneath the diamond’s pavilion. That empty space is crucial for maximizing the visibility. Over time a tiffany-style engagement ring can collect dust and debris in that space, giving the stone an unattractive dull look. Additionally, the tiffany setting, like any engagement ring, can get small scratches on the surface from repeated daily wear. Despite your best efforts to keep it in mint condition, over time, your ring will inevitably get a bit scuffed.

The underside of the setting is a common place for dirt to build up.

 But caring for a ring, even the delicate tiffany-style engagement ring, is easy, as long as you follow a few simple precautions. You don’t need to take your ring into the jewelers for polishing very often, and you don’t even need any fancy equipment like an ultrasonic cleaner or a steam cleaner. (If you have lots of jewelry that needs to be washed often, you may consider one of these gadgets, but for a simple engagement ring, it’s unnecessary.) Check out this simple, easy and affordable cleaning tip from the Whiteflash customer service department.

A clean ring helps the diamond truly sparkle!

 Put a drop or two of Dawn dishwashing liquid and a little bit of warm water into a small, clean pill bottle or another small container. The Dawn will dislodge any dirt or grease on your diamond and ring without leaving a residue. Drop the ring into the bottle and give a light shake. Let it sit for a few minutes, shake it (gently) again, and then remove and rinse the ring in warm water. Touch it to a towel to dry and put it back on. This will remove any soap scum or residue that is clinging to your engagement ring. Once your ring is clean, try to avoid touching the stone with your bare hands, because the natural oils on your skin can dull their shine. This process needs to be done about once a week. If you go for a long period of time without cleaning your diamond it will cause buildup and they you will need to get it cleaned by a jeweler with an ultrasonic and steam cleaner.

Another way to clean any stubborn dirt hiding in the crevasses of a tiffany-style engagement ring is with a soft brush, like a soft-bristled toothbrush. Set the ring on something safe, like in a colander or bowl, and then spray on a tiny bit of jewelry cleaner, or if you don’t have any, a high-quality glass cleaner. Rub carefully, and then rinse the tiffany-style engagement ring under warm water. (If you are working over a sink, make sure the drain is covered and the ring is in a protective bowl!) To dry diamond rings, use a soft microfiber or flannel cloth, to avoid scratching the band.

A jewelry box with padded, separated sections will help prevent scratches.

Despite all your care and precautions, if you have been engaged for more than a few months, you may still want to send yourtiffany-style engagement ring back for cleaning a few weeks before your wedding. A professional cleaning and shine will make sure your ring will stand up to scrutiny on the big day!