5 Times You Really Should Take Your Engagement Ring Off

by Elizabeth Mitchell, BRIDES

Photo: Getty Images

He liked it so he put a ring on it, and now you don't want to take said ring off? We completely understand. However, if you want your bling to continue shining bright like a diamond for a really long time (and we know you do!), it's important to not wear it while you're busy doing these five things.

1. Working Out
Before you break a sweat, it's a good idea to take that pretty little ring off. "The materials used in diamond jewelry, platinum and gold, are to a certain degree, soft," explains Mr. David Watling, De Beers Head of Diamond Centre. So if you rock your ring while participating in certain activities that put pressure on these metals, you risk changing their shape. "And if the shape of a ring is bent enough, you then risk bending the claws that hold the diamond and your diamond falling out." Same goes for sports; if you play soccer, basketball, tennis or participate in any other physical activity, do yourself a solid and keep your ring in a safe place, preferably at home, so you won't accidently damage it during competition.

2. Moisturizing
Lotions and moisturizers may be great for your skin, not so much for your ring though, as excess build up can diminish the brilliance and dull your stone over time. To protect your rock and ensure a cloudy layer of film doesn't form on it, wait until your hands have completely dried before slipping your bling back on.

3. Primping
Did you know that cosmetics, hair sprays, perfumes and other substances and chemicals commonly used by women could cause build-up of grime, weakening the natural sheen of your ring? According to Nadine Tacorian Arzerounian, president of operations and design for Tacori, it's true! "I take off my rings the moment I walk into my house so I can seamlessly move through my nightly routine, whether that be cleaning, cooking or showering, without concern of taking my rings on and off," she says. Want to get rid of the grease on your diamonds? Watling recommends gently rinsing them with hot water and dishwashing liquid. "When doing this, don't forget to first secure the sink or use a bowl," he warns. "Then dry your jewelry with a cotton or linen towel before using a polishing cloth for a sparkling finish."

4. Swimming
Never, ever, ever wear your expensive jewelry in the ocean or in the pool! For one, cold water "shrinks" your fingers, making it that much easier for an already loose engagement ring to disappear during a swim. Chlorine, on the other hand, can damage and discolor the mounting of your ring and your platinum, gold or white gold wedding band.

5. Cleaning
Not only can you easily bang up your engagement ring on tough surfaces (think bathroom counters, kitchen floors, etc.) cleaning the house, but you can also do serious damage to the stone and setting. You can even potentially alter the color, thanks to harsh chemicals like bleach and ammonia found in many common household cleaners.

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