| As diamonds are the hardest substance known to | | | | Immerse the item to be cleaned into the solution. |
| man you might think they do not require cleaning. | | | | Using a soft toothbrush, gently brush the item. |
| Nothing could be further from the truth however. | | | | Ensure you brush the entire object including the |
| Diamonds get as dirty and grubby as any other | | | | back of the stone and the parts where the |
| substance. | | | | setting meets the stone. These areas tend to |
| Some important points to remember when | | | | collect body oils which can deteriorate the setting. |
| cleaning diamonds are: | | | | Rinse in warm running water. |
| Do not be too aggressive, the diamond may be | | | | You can then pat dry or leave on a dry cloth |
| able to take it but the precious metal of gold or | | | | surface to dry for a while. |
| silver in which the diamond is set may be easily | | | | When using ammonia make sure the solution is |
| damaged. | | | | very weak. You do not need to use a lot of |
| This applies using pastes or powders and | | | | ammonia. Be careful with some metals also, such |
| obviously metal scourers are right out of the | | | | as silver and gold. The piece must be rinsed off |
| question. | | | | very thoughly so there is no residue solution left |
| Here are two ways to clean diamonds in their | | | | on it otherwise some of the metal may react |
| setting. | | | | with the ammonia and discolor. |
| Soapy water | | | | Extra Tips: |
| Mix a small amount of dishwashing detergent with | | | | It has been suggested that distilled water be used. |
| warm water until you have sub suds. Immerse | | | | Some tap waters contain impurities that may |
| the diamond jewelry into the solution and gently | | | | affect the setting and even dull the stone with |
| brush with an old toothbrush set aside for this | | | | impurities on the surface. |
| purpose only. | | | | If using ammonia, ensure you do your cleansing in |
| Rinse in warm running water. | | | | a well ventilated area and do not crouch down |
| You can then pat dry or leave on a dry cloth | | | | over the dish when cleaning. Also be sure to avoid |
| surface to dry for a while. | | | | inhaling the ammonia solution directly. |
| The other method is by using an. | | | | Using the above your diamonds should come up |
| Ammonia Solution | | | | sparkling clean and your settings will remain clean, |
| In a small bowl mix one part ammonia to 6 parts | | | | intact and unscratched. |
| water (Distilled water is best). | | | | |