Things That Can Damage Your Ring

While often crafted from high-quality materials, fine rings can still be damaged by everyday activities, from accidental impacts to improper storage. Scratches, weakened settings, and discoloration can all affect the beauty and longevity of your cherished jewelry. By taking preventive measures and scheduling regular professional maintenance, you can keep your ring in pristine condition. Our team here at Exclusively Diamonds has put together a guide to some of the ways you can protect your beloved pieces from everyday damage.

Impact and Scratches

Many rings are designed to be worn daily, but accidental impacts can cause significant damage, no matter what material the band is made of. Hard surfaces, such as countertops, doorknobs, and gym equipment may leave scratches or even bend metal settings. To minimize risk, remove your ring before engaging in physical activities like weightlifting or housework. If your ring has already suffered scratches, do not worry! A professional polishing, like those offered here at Exclusively Diamonds, can easily restore its original shine. Regular inspections help detect early signs of wear off, preventing further damage and maintaining the integrity of your piece.

Exposure to Harsh Chemicals

We are surrounded by chemicals on a daily basis, such as household cleaners, beauty products, and chlorine in swimming pools. Each of these have the potential to degrade precious metals in your fashion or engagement ring and weaken gemstone settings. Moreover, chemical exposure may lead to discoloration or erosion of prongs, increasing the likelihood of stone loss. To protect your ring, it's essential to remove it before using cleaning agents, applying lotions and moisturizers, or swimming. Washing your hands with mild soap and water is generally safe, but harsh sanitizers are better avoided. If you notice dullness or residue buildup on your ring, a professional cleaning at our store can restore its brilliance. Our in-house services ensure your ring receives the care it deserves.

Improper Storage and Handling

When not being worn, it is advised to store rings separately to avoid scratches and entanglement with other jewelry. Tossing your ring into a drawer or leaving it on a hard surface increases the risk of abrasions and misplacement. A soft-lined jewelry box with individual compartments is ideal for safe storage. Frequent travelers may want to consider acquiring a specialized travel case. With padded inserts, they provide added protection while on the go. Additionally, removing your ring before bedtime can prevent accidental bending or prong damage.

Temperature Extremes and Sudden Changes

Lastly, pay attention to the external temperature. Extreme heat or cold can affect the structural integrity of certain metals and gemstones. Sudden temperature changes may cause some materials to expand or contract, leading to potential cracks or loosened settings. If you frequently move between hot and cold environments, which is quite common in the winter season, be mindful of how your ring reacts so you do not lose it. Leaving your jewelry in direct sunlight or near high heat sources can cause delicate stones to fade or weaken over time.

Trust Your Damaged Rings to Exclusively Diamonds

If your ring has suffered damage, our expert team at Exclusively Diamonds in Mankato, Minnesota, is here to help. We provide in-house jewelry services including repair, inspections, and custom design to restore and enhance your cherished piece. Our skilled artisans specialize in stone tightening, prong re-tipping, and polishing to keep your ring looking as stunning as the day you received it. Moreover, for over 40 years we’ve proudly served North Mankato, Saint Peter, New Ulm, and beyond, with our outstanding selection of engagement rings and wedding bands. Visit our showroom or contact us today to explore our collections and protect your treasured jewelry for a lifetime.