Diamonds are the hardest natural substance on Earth — but they still get dirty. Easy at-home cleaning methods and what to avoid to preserve your jewelry's brilliance.
Why Do Diamonds Lose Their Sparkle Over Time?
Diamonds score 10 on the Mohs hardness scale — the hardest natural material on Earth. They won't scratch or chip easily, but they do get dirty. Residue from creams, soap, perspiration, and lotion builds up between the facets and prevents light from reflecting dramatically. The result: a dull, lackluster diamond.
The good news: cleaning is easy.
At-Home Cleaning: 3 Steps
What you need: Warm water, mild dish soap (unscented), a soft toothbrush, a lint-free cloth
Frequency: Once a month is sufficient; twice a month if you wear it daily.
Situations to Avoid
- While applying hand cream or sunscreen: The compounds adhere to the setting and stone
- In the sea or pool: Chlorine and salt gradually degrade the setting (especially gold alloys)
- While cooking: Oil and spice residue accumulates
- During sports: Risk of impact and stone loss
- While sleeping: The setting can bend, or catch on fabric
Ultrasonic Cleaners
You can use an ultrasonic cleaner at home — but:
- Do not use on stones with fractures or inclusions that reach the surface
- Avoid on treated or heat-processed stones
- Ideal for certified natural diamonds
Professional Maintenance
Take your jewelry to a jeweler once a year for professional ultrasonic cleaning and prong inspection. We offer this service to Pırlanta Ustası customers.
Storage
- Store each piece in a separate compartment — diamonds can scratch other jewelry
- Keep in a fabric-lined box, away from direct sunlight
- For travel, use the original box or a multi-compartment jewelry case
