Cleaning and Caring for Your Rings

I know rings are an extension of ourselves. We wear them everyday, and many of them, such as an engagement ring or wedding band, hold significant meaning to us. But rings do get dirty and can harbor germs, especially when it comes to the underside of them that touches the skin. Here are some of the best ways I know to clean your rings, and the gunk that can hide within the band.

Cleaning Engagement Rings and Wedding Bands

For most engagement rings, wedding bands, or rings that do not contain soft gemstones like pearls, turquoise, lapis lazuli, or opals, fill a small bowl with warm water and a small squirt of mild dish soap, then soak your ring for about 5-10 minutes. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gently scrub around and behind the stones and in any grooves to remove any remaining dirt. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and dry with a soft cloth. Your rings will thank you for it because it will give both your metal and stones a nice sparkle.

Cleaning Rings Set with Pearls or Soft Stones

For rings that are set with pearls, or soft stones like opal and turquoise, you need to be a bit more careful in your cleaning regimen so you don’t damage your stones or pearls. For these, mix a solution of lukewarm water (not warm water - there is a difference) and a few drops of mild dish soap. Using water that is too hot can damage your stones or pearls, so be careful. Dip a soft, clean cloth into the soap and water mixture and gently wipe down the outside and inside of the ring, making sure you get into any grooves or openings in the underside of the ring. You can then go over the ring with another soft, clean cloth that has been dipped in lukewarm water to help remove any soap residue, and then dry them with another soft cloth.

Hand Sanitizer’s Effect on Rings

Using hand sanitizer when wearing your rings can be a concern as well. Can it harm your rings? Actually, yes it can. Hand sanitizer contains alcohol or chlorine, and using it over an extended amount of time can eventually dull the finish on your rings, and damage certain soft stones and pearls. The best practice would be to take the rings off, apply the hand sanitizer, and then put your rings back on a few minutes later after your hands dry completely.

We all wash our hand numerous times a day, But in doing so, remember that your rings are precious to you, and you love wearing them. Show them a little TLC and most will last for a lifetime.