With wedding season in full swing, a Harrogate jeweller has shared their top five things loved up locals should never do with their engagement ring – to ensure it retains its sparkle for the big day and beyond.
Clare Watson, Branch Manager at Beaverbrooks, on James Street, said:
“Your engagement ring is designed to last a lifetime, but daily wear and tear can sometimes take its toll. From showering to working out, some surprisingly common activities can dull your engagement ring’s sparkle or even put it at risk of damage.
“Here are five key things I recommend taking extra care doing to protect precious jewellery and keep diamonds and other gems sparkling for many years to come.”
Don’t wear your ring when working out
“We all know exercise is great for our health, but regular high-impact workouts and weightlifting can put pressure on rings, which may affect the setting over time.
"Precious metals can bend under strain, and delicate settings – especially those with pavé diamonds – can become loose over time.
"If you love to stay active, consider safely storing your ring until you’ve finished your workout to help keep it in perfect condition.”
Don’t expose your ring to harsh chemicals
“Household cleaning products often contain harsh chemicals, and while these are great for ensuring our homes sparkle, they can affect precious metals and dull the appearance of any gems.
"Over time this could weaken settings, increasing the risk of stones becoming loose.
"If you're tackling chores, it’s best to slip your engagement ring off and place it in a safe place where it can’t accidentally be mislaid, such as a small dish or cup.
"If you prefer not to remove it, then you can also pop on a pair of protective gloves.”
Don’t wear your ring in the shower
“To keep your engagement ring looking its best, it’s always a good idea to take it off before showering and put it back on once your hands are clean and dry.
"If you do choose to wear your ring while bathing, be mindful that soap, shampoo and conditioner can leave a residue, making it look dull over time.
"Hot water may also cause your fingers to swell slightly, increasing the chance of your ring feeling tighter than usual.”
Don’t wear your ring while sleeping
“Many people wear their engagement ring to bed, but over time, this can lead to unnecessary wear and tear.
"Engagement rings can catch on bedding and delicate prongs may become misshapen without you realising.
"Some people also experience mild finger swelling overnight, which can make a ring feel tighter in the morning.
"Keeping a small dish or jewellery box by your bedside is an effective way to maintain your ring’s sparkle while ensuring it doesn’t unnecessarily become damaged.”
Don’t leave your ring uncovered when gardening
“Soil and debris can easily get trapped in your engagement ring, dulling its sparkle and making it harder to clean.
"Claw settings in particular can catch on rough surfaces or become clogged with dirt.
"If you’re spending time in the garden, wearing gardening gloves is the best way to protect your ring while keeping your hands safe too.”
Anyone in Harrogate looking for advice on how to care for their engagement ring can visit Beaverbrooks’ Harrogate store on James Street to speak to one of their experts.
For more information about Beaverbrooks, visit www.beaverbrooks.co.uk
