A diamond is an investment in the future, and by following these simple guidelines you can make sure your investment lasts a lifetime.

The most important things to keep in mind are:

• Daily care
• Gentle cleaning
• Travel safety

Daily Care

One of the reasons diamonds are the best choice for an engagement ring or other lasting gift is that they can be worn all day, every day. To make sure diamonds retain their luster and strength make sure you take these easy precautions.

• Check the setting once a year.

Like seeing your doctor, make sure you take your diamond in for a checkup once a year. Go to a professional jeweler and have them check to make sure the stones are secure and don't move around in the setting. Have them also check to make sure the setting itself is not dented, scratched or malformed, which could affect the stability of the diamond. If any repairs are needed make sure you leave it to the professionals.

• If you take your diamonds off make sure you store them clean, and in a fabric-lined box or in a separate compartment. Diamonds are so strong they can actually scratch other gemstones (or each other, ouch!).
• When doing tough jobs it is best to take your diamonds off. It may look glamorous but even though diamonds are strong they can be chipped by very hard impact.

• Also make sure when doing housework that you never wear your diamond when using chlorine bleach or strong detergents.

Gentle Cleaning

Even diamonds get dirty. Everyday soaps, cooking oils, lotion, etc… can smudge your diamond and reduce its sparkle. Gentle cleaning will ensure your diamonds look as beautiful as the day she said “I do!”

Below are the leading methods for cleaning diamonds:

• Ultrasonic: Liquid and detergents inside a small cup in the machine are agitated at high frequencies, cleaning your diamond in just minutes. However, these machines are not safe for many other gemstones, including emeralds and pearls, so be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions.

• Cold Water: Mix 4 parts water with 1 part gentle dishwashing liquid and soak your diamond jewelry for a few minutes, then remove and use a soft-bristle brush to gently remove water on all sides of the mounting. Place on tissue paper or soft absorbent cloth to dry.

• Suds Bath: Your diamonds in a small bowl of warm suds (use a gentle liquid detergent, make sure it has no chlorine). Brush with a soft brush and drain in a metal or plastic strainer, make sure you don't do this over the drain! Let dry on a soft cloth.

• Dip: There are many professional jewelry cleaners you can buy. Make sure you read the instructions and find the one that is best for your jewelry. Let diamonds dry before putting them back on or your skin will leave a smudge.

Travel Safety

Never take your jewelry off outside the home and make sure never to leave jewelry on the edge of a sink. Many an investment has been lost down the drain. If you pack your diamonds for travel it is best to buy a carrying case specifically for jewelry, with separate lined compartments for diamonds so they don't chip other gemstones or each other.