The AVRA Times

Diamonds don't wear out. They do get dull, and the usual cause is lotion.

Diamonds attract oil. Within a few days of daily wear, a thin film of skin oil, moisturizer and perfume builds up on the back of the stone, where light is meant to bounce back out. The diamond still has its fire. It just can't show it.

The two-minute clean

1. Fill a small bowl with warm water and a drop of mild dish soap.
2. Let the piece soak for a minute or two to loosen the film.
3. Brush gently with a soft toothbrush, especially under the stone and around the prongs, where buildup hides.
4. Rinse under running warm water. Close the drain first.
5. Pat dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.

Do it once a week for pieces you wear every day. You will see the difference the first time.

Everyday habits

Put it on last. After lotion, perfume, hairspray and sunscreen, so less of it ends up on the stone.

Take it off for the hard stuff. Heavy lifting, cleaning with chemicals and swimming in chlorine. Chlorine can weaken the metals in gold alloys over time.

Store pieces apart. A diamond can scratch another diamond and will scratch gold. Keep each piece in its own pouch or compartment.

Skip ultrasonic cleaners at home unless you have asked us first. Warm water and a soft brush are all an AVRA piece needs.

Check the settings

Every few months, hold the piece near your ear and tap it gently. A stone that rattles or a prong that catches on a sweater needs attention. Email us at Contact@avrajewelry.co. A loose stone or a failing setting is covered by our lifetime craftsmanship warranty.

Solid 14k gold and VS–VVS diamonds are made to be worn, not saved. Two minutes a week keeps them looking the way they did the day they arrived.