Diamonds 101: Care Secrets for Lasting Luster

Diamonds are designed to withstand the test of time, but a little care goes a long way in preserving their sparkle. Whether you've recently acquired a stunning piece from the International Diamond Center or have been cherishing your diamonds for years, you want your diamonds to sparkle brilliantly.  Proper maintenance is the key to displaying its natural beauty. 

From dazzling rings to exquisite earrings and breathtaking necklaces, our IDC expert tips will help you to keep your diamonds in top shape. In this guide, we'll delve into the art of diamond care and review professional methods to ensure your diamonds sparkle for generations to come.

Understanding the Anatomy of a Diamond

Before we dive into the maintenance tips, it's essential to grasp the basic structure of a diamond. Real diamonds are formed under immense pressure and heat deep within the Earth, making them one of the hardest substances known to man. While diamonds are renowned for their hardness, they are not indestructible. Composed of carbon atoms arranged in a crystal lattice, diamonds can still be susceptible to wear and tear over time. This makes it important to adopt a regular care routine to preserve their exceptional shine and luster.

At Home Care for Your Diamond:

1. Gentle Cleaning at Home: Regularly clean your diamonds to remove accumulated oils, lotions, and everyday dirt. To keep your diamonds looking their best, a simple at-home cleaning routine can work wonders. Create a solution of warm water and mild dish soap, and soak your diamond jewelry for about 20-30 minutes. Gently scrub the piece with a soft toothbrush, paying attention to areas where dirt may accumulate. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a soft, lint-free cloth. Be cautious with ultrasonic cleaners, especially if your diamond has fractures or inclusions, as they may become more visible over time.
2. Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Diamonds are resilient, but exposure to harsh chemicals can dull the brilliance and affect the setting. Remove your diamond jewelry before swimming in chlorinated pools, using household cleaners, or applying beauty products such as hairspray, perfumes, and lotions. Chemicals can dull the sparkle and potentially damage the setting.
3. Storage Matters: When you're not wearing your diamond jewelry, store it in a fabric-lined jewelry box or a separate compartmentalized container to prevent scratching. Diamonds can scratch other diamonds, so avoid tossing them together casually.
4. Remove During Activities: While diamonds are durable, it's wise to remove your jewelry during strenuous physical activities. Whether you're hitting the gym, gardening, or engaging in any physically demanding tasks, safeguard your diamonds by taking them off.

Periodic Maintenance:

1. Professional Cleaning: Periodic professional cleaning is advisable to ensure a deep cleanse and to check for any potential issues. Schedule regular visits to your local IDC showroom for a professional inspection and cleaning.
2. Professional Check-ups: Schedule regular check-ups with International Diamond Center to ensure that your diamonds are securely set. Prongs can wear down over time, risking the loss of a stone. A professional inspection ensures early detection of any potential issues.
3. Repolishing: If your diamond starts to lose its brilliance over the years, International Diamond Center can happily repolish your diamonds and have them sparkle like the day you got them. This process involves removing a thin layer from the diamond's surface, revealing a fresh, dazzling layer underneath. However, keep in mind that excessive repolishing may alter the diamond's shape or size.
4. Secure Settings & Prong Inspection: Ensure that the setting of your diamond is secure. Loose prongs can lead to the loss of a diamond, and regular checks will help prevent such unfortunate incidents.
5. Rhodium Plating (if applicable): If your diamond jewelry features white gold with rhodium plating, be aware that the plating can wear off over time, exposing the yellowish tint of the underlying metal. Consider having your jewelry re-plated periodically to maintain its pristine appearance.
6. Insurance and Appraisals: Regularly update appraisals for your diamond jewelry, especially if their value has increased over time. Additionally, consider insuring your precious pieces to safeguard against loss or theft.

Special Care for Different Diamond Shapes:

1. Princess Cut, Cushion Cut, and Radiant Cut: These square or rectangular shapes may have pointed corners, making them more susceptible to chipping. Be cautious during daily wear and remove these pieces before engaging in strenuous activities.
2. Marquise Cut and Pear Cut: These fancy shapes have pointed ends, so be cautious to avoid impacts that could lead to chipping. Regular checks for loose prongs are crucial for their maintenance.
3. Emerald Cut and Asscher Cut: These step-cut diamonds have long lines that can show scratches more easily. Regular cleaning and proper storage are crucial to maintain their clarity and brilliance.
4. Round Brilliant Cut: The most popular and versatile cut, round diamonds hide minor imperfections well. However, periodic maintenance is still essential for preserving their overall beauty.
5. Oval Cut: The elongated shape requires extra care to prevent bending or damage to the tips.

At The International Diamond Center, we want all diamonds to sparkle beautifully.  We are also proud to share what we know with you, the guests of IDC so that you can care for your investment and maintain the exquisite allure of your diamonds.  Each facet of care adds to the legacy of these timeless gems. Whether it's the establishing a daily care routine, getting periodic professional check-ups, or understanding the nuances of different diamond shapes, each effort contributes to preserving your precious jewels.

Beyond their monetary worth, we understand that diamonds often carry immense emotional value. They symbolize love, commitment, and precious moments. Real diamonds are more than mere accessories; they're heirlooms that carry memories and sentiments. By incorporating these care and maintenance tips into your routine, you ensure that your diamonds continue to captivate for generations. Here's to a lifetime of enduring brilliance!