How do I make my engagement ring sparkle?

Five culprits do most of the damage, ranked by how stubbornly they cling. Sunscreen is the worst, because the SPF particles bond to the diamond surface and resist plain water. Hand cream is second, particularly silicone-based formulas that leave a film building up day by day. Makeup, especially foundation and primer, transfers from the fingers to the stone every time the ring is removed. Hairspray and dry shampoo settle on the ring and harden into a haze. Cooking oils splash up during stove work and adhere to the prongs. None of these damage the stone, but together they cut visible brilliance within days on a ring worn full time.

Three habits make a measurable difference between weekly cleans. Hold the ring by the band when putting it on or taking it off, not by the top of the stone, since skin oils transfer instantly from fingertips to the diamond table. Apply hand cream, sunscreen and makeup before putting the ring on, not after, so the products land on skin rather than on the setting. Take the ring off for the shower, the gym and any hands-on cleaning task, which keeps it out of direct contact with the worst residue sources. None of these habits is dramatic, but together they double the time between professional cleans.