Washing your hands while wearing an engagement ring should generally be avoided. This practice poses two main risks: the immediate physical safety of the ring and a long-term threat to its visual brilliance. Water and soap can compromise the ring’s fit, increasing the chance of accidental loss. Furthermore, chemical components in hand soaps and lotions leave residues that accumulate on the ring’s surfaces.
Risk of Loss from Slippage
The most immediate danger of washing hands with a ring on is the physical risk of losing it entirely. Warm water softens the skin, slightly reducing the diameter of your finger. Simultaneously, liquid soap acts as a potent lubricant, creating a slick film between the band and your skin.
This combination allows the ring to slip off without warning. This risk is amplified over sinks, where the ring can easily fall down an open drain. It is safer to either wash carefully or remove the ring and place it securely away from the sink basin.
How Residue Dulls Brilliance
Hand soaps and moisturizing lotions often contain fats, oils, and conditioning agents. These compounds adhere strongly to the surface of the diamond and the metal settings, not just the skin.
When these substances dry, they harden into a thin film that traps dirt and debris against the stone. This layer of grime significantly reduces the diamond’s ability to refract and reflect light, dulling its brilliance. The buildup is noticeable on the pavilion, the underside of the stone, where light enters and bounces back out.
Proper Cleaning Methods
If residue buildup has occurred, a routine cleaning procedure can restore the ring’s brilliance. The safest at-home method uses a solution of warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap, which cuts through grease and oils. The ring should be soaked in this mixture for 20 to 40 minutes to loosen accumulated grime.
After soaking, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub the diamond and the metal setting. Pay particular attention to the underside of the stone and intricate areas where buildup is dense. The ring should then be rinsed thoroughly under warm running water, with the drain securely plugged to prevent accidental loss, and patted dry with a lint-free cloth.