How to Care for Ruby Engagement Rings

THE BASICS ---

A ruby engagement ring can be a stunning, distinctive piece of jewelry for any couple to share. These glorious gems need proper care, however, to keep their lustrous glow and look their very best for many happy anniversaries to come.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW---

In this guide, we will explain the following:

• First, Know Your Ruby
• Caring For A Ruby Engagement Ring
• Protecting Your Ruby Engagement Ring
• Consider Insurance
• Choosing A Ruby Engagement Ring

First, Know Your Ruby

It is impossible to take good care of a ruby engagement ring if you aren’t intimately familiar with the stone. Have your ruby inspected by a certified, experienced gemologist, and take note of the stone’s color and clarity grades as well as any imperfections, inclusions, or wear. This is especially critical for vintage or antique engagement rings so they can be cared for adequately to protect their distinctiveness and character. A detailed inspection of the ring can also discover if any repairs may be necessary, and those repairs can be made either before the proposal or certainly before the wedding day.

Caring for a Ruby Engagement Ring

Ruby is the red form of the mineral corundum, and while it is one of the most durable gemstones, it still needs gentle care to preserve its beauty and brilliance.

• When cleaning a ruby engagement ring, soak the whole ring in warm, soapy water for 15-20 minutes. Then gently scrub the ring with a soft bristle brush, such as an old toothbrush, to remove all dirt and debris. Rinse the ring carefully and wipe it dry with a lint-free cloth.

• Do not use any harsh detergents, solvents, or other chemicals on a ruby. These items could discolor a stone that has had any treatments or fillings, and the metal of the ring could also be damaged by strong cleansers.

• To avoid the risk of knocks and blows that could chip or scratch even a stone as durable as a ruby, take a ruby engagement ring off while exercising, doing sports, cleaning house, gardening, or when involved in any activities where the hands could be hurt.

• Avoid greasy or oily buildup that can dull a ruby by removing the ring when using lotions, creams, ointments, or perfumes. Similarly, the ring should be taken off when baking or cooking if different materials could get on the hands, such as flour, oil, or dough.

• Store a ruby engagement ring apart from other gemstones in its own ring box, soft pouch, or individual cubby. Diamonds can scratch a ruby and rubies can scratch other gems, so it is best to keep them separate to avoid any risk of damage.

• Schedule annual inspections for your ruby engagement ring, or every six months if you lead an active life. The jeweler should check for damage and inspect the setting and prongs to be sure everything is firm and the stone is held safely and securely.

Protecting Your Ruby Engagement Ring

Good care is the best protection for any engagement ring, but there are ways to ensure extra precautions for a ruby ring. Take several close up, detailed photos of the ring to have on hand if it is lost or stolen, and consider adjusting homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policies to cover the ring. Having the ring professionally appraised and keeping up with annual inspections can help with claims or recovery if necessary.