An engagement ring is easily one of the most important investments a couple will make in their lifetime. As such, it’s important that you take good care of your engagement ring and avoid potential damage so it will continue to shine as brilliantly as the day you first put it on.

Scratches

Even the most durable metals can be scratched or damaged through normal wear and tear, especially if you aren’t careful. Platinum rings are very durable, and as a result are more resistant to damage than white or yellow gold engagement rings. For minor nicks, a jeweler can normally polish fine scratches away. If the damage is more severe, more extensive repairs may be necessary.

Misshaped Bands

While platinum engagement rings won’t be damaged in this way, yellow and white gold rings are softer and are prone to bending or stretching. This usually happens when a prong or some piece of the ring becomes snagged on fabric. If this happens, gently pull your hand away from the fabric – don’t yank it out. If you do, this can cause the ring to become bent or misshapen over time.

Loose Prongs

If your engagement ring is set with a prong setting, you run the risk of a prong becoming loose or damaged, which can potentially lead to the stone falling out. While prongs will loosen with daily wear and tear, catching a prong on a sweater or knocking it against a hard surface can also cause the prongs to loosen. Periodically check your ring to look for broken or missing prongs and to make sure your stone is secure. If you are missing a prong, take your engagement ring to a jeweler right away to have it repaired.

Things to Consider

While normal wear and tear can be expected to cause minor damage over time, there are certain things you should definitely not do to ensure the longevity and brilliance of your engagement ring.

To avoid losing or misplacing your ring, do not place your engagement ring in areas where it can easily fall, such as countertops, tables, etc. If you aren’t wearing your ring, keep it in a safe place away from other jewelry as it is very easy for diamonds or other gemstones to become scratched or damaged when they come in contact with other stones.

Avoid wearing your ring when washing dishes or other chores or doing yardwork. The chemicals found in household cleaners are too harsh for your ring and can dull the stone. Avoid putting makeup or lotion on while wearing your ring as well, as the oils can form a build up of product on the stone, thereby reducing its brilliance.

Have your ring professionally cleaned and checked for damage at least twice a year, or more frequently if you have a particularly delicate stone or setting.

With the proper care and precautions, you can ensure you avoid the most common engagement ring hazards and your ring will continue to bring brilliance and joy into your life for years to come.