You picked a real winner! Your partner has not stopped staring at their engagement ring since you popped the big question. In fact, they never want to take it off! But that’s honestly not a good idea. Several everyday activities could harm that beautiful stone, and we’re here to walk you through some examples.

How Can Your Ring Be Damaged?

But first, what do we mean when we say a “damaged” gem? Even though diamonds and other stones can be pretty durable and scratch-resistant, that doesn’t mean they’re completely indestructible. Therefore, gems can be scratched or chipped after coming in contact with everyday surfaces. Plus, dust and other elements sometimes get caught beneath the stone, limiting its sparkle.

What You Shouldn’t Do While Wearing an Engagement Ring

Sleep: Think about how many times you toss and turn every night. If you chose a prong setting for your sparkler, there’s a good chance one of those little claws could snag a pillowcase or blanket. And one hard, accidental knock on a nearby table could chip your stone! Yikes! So, keep your ring in a safe place for the night. You’ll thank us later.

Take a Shower: At first, this probably sounds like a good way to keep your gem squeaky clean. But not so fast! The constant stream of water will loosen the band from your finger, meaning it could slip off! Plus, residue from soap, shampoo and other beauty products could start building up beneath the stone.

Cleaning: Want your piece to last for decades? Jewelry experts recommend avoiding chemicals, extreme temperatures and air pollution. If you tend to use aerosol sprays, bleach and other chemicals when doing household chores, you’ll want to keep your ring in a safe place for the time being.

Swimming: Who could resist a beachside photo with your sparkling diamond against the backdrop of the waves? But when it comes to entering the water, you’ll want to leave your ring behind. You not only risk losing it, but salt water also reportedly forms an unwanted coating over the gem. The same general rule applies to swimming pools. Keep your ring away, as the chlorine will be harsh on the center stone.

Exercise/Contact Sports: If you’re going for a quick jog, it should be safe to take your engagement ring. But if you’re planning to lift weights or play a sport where you’ll be using a bat/club/etc., you should leave your ring off! Gems could easily come loose!

Gardening: Who wants clumps of dirt speckling a stunning, clear diamond? This could happen if you wear your ring while gardening. And depending on your gem, it could be scratched by newly discovered rocks and other gardening materials. (Hint: If you happen to like the speckled look, you could have bought a salt and pepper diamond instead.)

Cooking: Imagine that you’re cooking your favorite meal. Everything is going smoothly until the knife slips…in the direction of your engagement ring. If that isn’t scary enough, the ring could become a transporter of bacteria, especially if it comes in contact with raw meat.

Jewelry Care Tips

What if you have already done some of these things with an engagement ring? We won’t tell. But in the future, ask a reputable jeweler, like Gage Diamonds, to professionally inspect and clean your piece every six months.

Have a question? We can help!

Gage Diamonds is Chicago's premier jewelry showroom and online retailer of engagement rings, wedding bands, and fine jewelry. We offer a selection of dazzling colored gemstones and handpicked diamonds, including certified natural and lab grown diamonds.

We’re committed to helping you find the ring of your dreams. For inspiration, browse our selection of natural and lab grown diamonds, or set up an appointment with a member of our trusted staff at our in-person showroom.

We offer no-credit-needed financing – feel free to apply and get your approval within 24 hours!

Pay over time, because love shouldn’t wait.